RESCHEDULED: Ka Lani Kauikeaouli Festival pushed back because of impact from kona lows

Ke Kula ʻo Kamehameha invites the community to now gather early next month for the 25th anniversary Ka Lani Kauikeaouli Festival in celebration of the life and enduring legacy of Kamehameha III.

The festival was originally planned for March 21 but had to be rescheduled because of impacts from the back-to-back kona lows that slammed into the state.

Organizers decided to postpone the event was made to ensure the safety and well-being of festival attendees.

Community members will now honor visionary mōʻī Kauikeaouli on May 9 and reflect about his role in establishing constitutional governance, securing international recognition of Hawaiʻi’s sovereignty, advancing one of the world’s earliest systems of universal public education and much more.

The free, family-friendly event engages the community through mele, hula and shared ʻike to celebrate a king’s legacy that continues to resonate today as a beacon calling Native Hawaiians to carry forward the work of strengthening their lāhui.

Ka Lani Kauikeaouli Festival also marks its 25th year in 2026, continuing to cultivate a space where history informs the present and community strengthens the future.

The festival will be hosted at Kahaluʻu Ma Kai, a revered wahi pana and royal ceremonial compound.

Located near the birthplace of Kauikeaouli, his sister Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena and esteemed Hawaiian scholar Davida Malo, the community is invited to enjoy the storied landscape and reconnect with places that nurtured some of Hawaiʻi’s most revered leaders and its beloved and longest reigning king.

Festival highlights

• When: 12:30 p.m. to sunset May 9
• Where: Kahaluʻu Ma Kai (former Keauhou Beach Hotel and Kona Lagoon Hotel site), Kona

Featuring:

• Free admission.
• Live Hawaiian music and hula.
• Cultural presentations and storytelling.
• Keiki activities.
• Community vendors.
• Complimentary chili and rice bowls.

Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, umbrellas and refillable water bottles to enjoy the outdoor festivities.

Ke Kula ʻo Kamehameha stewards the festival grounds and surrounding lands at Keauhou Bay, furthering the legacy of educational opportunities and cultural stewardship inspired by Kauikeaouli’s life and leadership.

Visit the festival web page on the Kamehameha Schools website for a complete festival schedule and to learn more about the life of Kauikeaouli.