Three years ago, on March 26, 2020, a curfew was imposed in the state of Hawaii to control the spread of the new coronavirus. It was a so-called lockdown, and travelers were asked to stay in their hotels as a rule.
After that, flights between Japan and Hawaii were cancelled, and Waikiki was quiet, with no people or cars in sight, a scene that did not seem real.
The Honolulu Festival, which had to be canceled that year, was held for the first time in four years. The Honolulu Festival has been held every March with the theme of cultural exchange between Japan, Hawaii, and Pacific Rim countries. Traditional cultural and musical groups, dance groups, and universities from all over Japan, as well as high schools participating as graduation trips, present dance performances and participate in the Grand Parade. In addition, participants from the islands of Hawaii also gather to enjoy various aspects of the event, including education, cultural experience, and exchange.
The first event was held in 1995, and this year marks the 27th. The number of arrivals from Japan to Hawaii has increased dramatically, and we would like to take a look back at the lively three-day event.
The highlight of Day 1 is the Friendship Party. Enjoy entertainment on stage while savoring the flavors of popular local restaurants.
The meals to look forward to include specials from Aloha Steak, Aloha Table, Heavenly Island Lifestyle, and Jig, as well as the notable sustainable French restaurants Natur Waikiki and Hearth Ramen Tavern.
This year, tickets, which include food and one drink from all restaurants, are $100 per person. Each year, the funds raised help provide local students with opportunities and quality educational programs to increase international understanding and awareness.
On the second and third days, the convention center hosted a Japanese film festival, a sake and food festival, a product exhibition, a craft fair, a bon dance (a summer tradition in Hawaii), and a dance summit on stage. Visitors could experience culture, shop, dance, and more.
A few days ago, the “Genki Ala Wai Project” was in the news, using the power of nature (bacteria) to clean up the Ala Wai (canals along Waikiki), where water pollution has been a problem. Recently, honu (sea turtles) have appeared in Ala Wai, and the other day it was reported that monk seals were swimming in the area. The “Genki Ball Making” activity was held at the event site, in which participants made “Genki Balls” containing the bacteria necessary for the project.
When the finished genki ball is left to rest for a few days, the bacteria become genki and show their strength.
This was followed by an event in which pre-made genkiballs were thrown into the arawai.
A new “Honolulu Art Market” was also held this year. Many paintings and goods by local artists were sold, and many people gathered to see unique art all at once.
The Sake & Food Fest was also a great success, with tastings and sales taking place.
The climax of the final day was the Grand Parade in Waikiki and the Nagaoka Fireworks. The Grand Parade began at 4:00 p.m., and participants from various countries paraded down Kalakaua Avenue for four hours, performing traditional performances of their countries.
It was deeply moving for us ordinary citizens to see the Honolulu Festival, which had been held every year in March as a tradition, resume its activities and end up being a great success. It was a big event that made us realize that it was not “normal” to be held. ……
© Source travel watch