Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 28, Number 1, 1 January 2011 — Makahiki Maoli fest shines [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Makahiki Maoli fest shines

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs awarded a Community Event Sponsorship Grant of $14,921 to the Kōmike Makua o Pūnana Leo o Honolulu to host its third annual Makahiki Maoli Festival at Kapi'olani Park on Nov. 21. In the moming, keiki hula dancers swayed to the soft melodies of Hawaiian mele, and everyone enjoyed 'ono food, arts and crafts, and cultural demonstrations throughout the day, whieh also featured

traditional makahiki games such as 'ulu maika, hukihuki (tug-of-war) and more, as it was done in centuries past by ancient Hawaiians. OHA Community Outreach Coordinator Ka'imo Muhlestein spent the day there to share information about OHA's advocacy efforts, programs and services while the community enjoyed the spirit of the makahiki season. As February approaches, the makahiki season will end, the eastern constellation of stars known as Na Huihui o Makali'i in the midnight sky will disappear, and the four consecutive months of ho'oilo, or winter, will gradually shift into warmth. As these changes occur, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Community Outreach staff will continue to support your community through outreach services and programs while caring for OHA's mission in year 201 1. ■

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A keiki kāne competes in traditional makahiki games. - Photo: Ka'imo Muhlestein