Be transported to a time of warriors, human sacrifice, chicken-skin inducing chanting, and glorious dance and ceremonies of the Native Hawaiians.
The Pelekane, or royal courtyard located near the beach below Pu`ukohola Heiau, will hold a cultural celebration this weekend.
The theme of ho`oku`ikahi focuses on reconciling, reuniting and “unifying as one.”
Native crafts, music, dance, double-hulled canoe rides, cultural demonstrations, lessons and more will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
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The P`u`ukohola Heiau was a sacrificial temple dedicated to the war god Kuka`ilomoku. This site is where King Kamehameha the Great fulfilled a prophecy that foretold of his rule over all islands.
King Kamehameha defeated Ka`u Chief Keoua on Pelekane Beach, and ultimately unified the islands under one rule.
Thousands of people labored and completed the structure in less than a year in 1791. The significance of this site is undeniable; in 1962, the site was declared a National Historic Landmark.
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Attendees can taste traditional foods, learn how to plait fronds, quilt, make leis, weave lauhala, pound poi and tapa and make an ipu, or gourd, among other activities.
A warrior exhibition and royal court ceremony will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday only. Make sure to apply sunscreen liberally, wear comfortable clothes and bring the camera.
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