Aloha Hawaiian Culture

Hawaiian Arts & Culture

The oldest of Hawaiian chants describe the Hawaiian Islands, the spirits that inhabit them, the forces of nature that shaped them and all the living things upon them as inextricably connected. This sense of connection is the foundation of Hawaiian culture: understanding that we all have a mandate to mālama, to care for our environment and for one another.

Today, Hawaiian culture may hold many of the answers sought in a rapidly changing world. The spirit of aloha – being in the presence of and sharing the essence of life – teaches us lessons of peace, kindness, compassion and responsibility to future generations. These lessons are expressed through chant, music, hula, arts and cultural practices, and through the warm, genuine greetings that are a hallmark of Hawaiian hospitality.

 

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Hawaiian Experiences

Performers in Hilo on the island of Hawaiʻi

Hula

Watch live hula shows showcasing graceful movements with live music and storytelling. Discover the spiritual significance of hula and experience it firsthand through classes, workshops and performances.

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Performers during a lūʻau in Hawaiʻi

Lūʻau

Experience an authentic lūʻau, featuring traditional cuisine, hula performers, fire dancers and other cultural practices all set under a starry night sky.

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Couples at the Kauaʻi Museum on Kauaʻi in Hawaiʻi

Museums

Top local history institutions include the Bishop Museum, Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House, Kauaʻi Museum, Moloka’i Museum, Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center and the Lyman Museum.

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