September means the return of the annual Aloha Festivals to Oahu, an event that puts Hawaiian culture in the spotlight. This year's focus: piliaina, or kinship with the land.
“Now that the world has reopened, it’s time for us to reconnect, nurture
and provide attention to our land here in Hawaii,” Debbie
Nakanelua-Richards, co-chair of the monthlong event, said in a
statement. “At Aloha Festivals this year, we want to inspire everyone to
get out, explore and appreciate the beauty of our world and let it
leave its mark on you.”
The festivities will kick off on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 4 p.m. with the investiture of the royal court at the coconut grove of the Royal Hawaiian hotel, followed by an opening ceremony at the nearby Royal Hawaiian Center. This year's court will be wearing royal regalia that was typical of Hawaiian alii (chiefs). The investiture is followed by an opening ceremony at the nearby Royal Hawaiian Center, where there will be hula and musical entertainment.
Other highlights:
• The 69th annual Waikiki Hoolaulea, one of the city’s largest block parties, takes place on Sat., September 23 from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Kalakaua Avenue. It features food booths, crafts and musical entertainment.
• The 75th annual Floral Parade on Sept. 30 begins at 9 a.m. in Ala Moana Park and concludes in Kapiolani Park. The parade will be filled with marching bands, large floats decorated with flowers and horseback riders wearing colorful pau, or long skirts.
Visit the Aloha Festivals website for more information about the festivities.