This summer, Japan and Hawaii will unite in celebration of hula for the ninth annual Hula Ho’olauna Aloha Festival. This one-of-a-kind event, which honors hula’s traditional customs and vibrant culture, features a dance exhibition by Japanese and local halau at Ala Moana Center’s centerstage as well as a dance competition among visiting Japanese halau and Hawaiian craft sale at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, Coconut Grove (pictured). The public is invited to attend both events; however, seating at the hula competition is limited to participating halau and their friends and family, and local residents with a valid Hawaii state ID.
Created in 2002, the annual Hula Ho’olauna Aloha hula festival celebrates Japan’s love for the hula in its birthplace, while bridging the two cultures through dance.
The festivities begin on Saturday, July 10 at the Ala Moana Center. The Hula Exhibition runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The next day, shoppers can attend the Hawaiian Craft Sale at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel Coconut Grove from noon to 6:45 p.m., and the Hula Halau Competition & Hula Demonstration will begin at 3 p.m.
Visit www.hoolauna.com or call 808-286-2178.
