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Getting Cultured

What We Love Now

BY Krystal Kakimoto

On the sacred shores of Kailua-Kona comes the Hawai‘i Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival, a celebration of Polynesian cultures around the Pacific. This festival, located at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort, will feature a collection of activities revolving around fire, feast, and fashion. Starting on June 6, the celebration begins with an Opening Celebration and Hula Ho‘ike, wherehālau(hula groups) from around Hawai‘i will share the beautiful tradition of hula with guests. Things really heat up the following evening at the 5th Annual Le Kaua Ailao World Fireknife Competition. There, competitors from two age groups (11-17 and 18+)show off their impressive fire knife skills, competing to win not only cash prizes, but also the crowd's adoration. There, you can watch the competitors toss and twirl their fire knives in impressive ways, thrilling the audience with their bravery and skill. This enthralling event is a sight to behold and serves as a qualifying competition for the World Fireknife Competition. June 7 also includes a fashion show, featuring wearable art from various up-and-coming fashion designers. Wander through the King Kamehameha Beach Resort’s mall and admire these inventive pieces on display, where you will also find a marketplace featuring local vendors selling beautiful and creative pieces for you to take home. But don’t forget your appetite. On June 8, join the Hawai‘i Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival for a day of delicious dining at the Taste of Pacific & Asia. Inside the ballroom of the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort, an array of talented local chefs will share their tasty dishes, allowing guests the opportunity to sample a delicious taste of Hawai‘i and beyond. Whether you decide to participate in one or all of the events, the Hawai‘i Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival is undoubtedly an experience you will never forget! 

The 2025 Hawai‘i Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival will take place June 6- 8 at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel. Each event is sold separately. For more information, including pricing, timing, and participants, visit hikuauli.com.

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