Tradition

Join us to celebrate and preserve Hawaiian culture with a variety of family-friendly cultural activities throughout the weekend.

Oli (chant)

Hawaiian history was oral history. It was codified in genealogies and chants, which were memorized strictly as passed down. In the absence of a written language, this was the only available method of ensuring accuracy. Chants told the stories of creation, mythology, royalty, and other significant events and people.

Pule

The pule, or Hawaiian prayer, opens both the SUP and OC1 races. This traditional Hawaiian chant requests safe passage and a positive day on the water for all race participants. This allows a moment for all competitors to come together for reflection and camaraderie, before heading out to race.

Hula

Storytelling is of utmost importance in Hawaiian culture. The Hawaiian art of hula tells stories through mele (song) and dance. Hula Halau Alapa’I I Maluuluolele will perform to the delight of the crowd following the SUP race on Saturday.

Luau

A traditional Hawaiian feast will follow the SUP race. Competitors and spectators alike are invited to enjoy traditional foods such as poi, kalua pig, and poke, while soaking up the ambiance of beautiful Kanaha Beach Park. Luau dinner is included in race entry fee, or $10 for non-racers. Proceeds go to support our Ohana Giveback Partners; Maui Cultural Lands, and the Hawaii’s Junior Lifeguard Program.

Sailing Canoe Rides

The first sailing canoes emerged in ancient Polynesia over 1,000 years ago, and were as important to the exploration of Polynesia as the invention of the wheel was to Europe and Asia.

The art of canoe sailing is has experienced a resurgence in recent years thanks to organizations like the Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Association and their inter-island race series and community outreach program.

HSCA Champions Team OluKai, captained by master steersman Marvin Otsuji, will be offering free sailing canoe rides all weekend in their renowned vessel, Kamakakoa (eye of the warrior). Sign up for the ride of a lifetime, enjoy dramatic land and seascapes, and learn about this culturally important craft.

Ancient Hawaiian Games

Maui Cultural Lands will be hosting Ancient Hawaiian Games. Challenge your friends and family to test their skills in games including:

• Ulu Maika (a form of lawn bowling)
• Moa Pahe’e (a form of dart sliding)
• Konane (a form of checkers)
• Hukihuki (tug of war)