Kupuna Hula celebrated starting Wednesday

The 34th Annual Hawaii Kupuna Hula Festival is just around the corner. This year’s festival takes place at the Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa, Convention Center Wednesday and Thursday.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. both evenings and performances begin at 5 p.m. Tickets are still available for $10 each evening and can be purchased at the door.

Sixteen halau are participating this year from Japan, Okinawa, California, Oregon and across the state of Hawaii. The dancers all aged 55 or older, will compete in up to five judged categories based on this year’s theme “Na Lei Hiwa No Kalakaua.” Wednesday evening will start with an appearance from the Hawaii Island Festivals Royal Court followed by the soloists’ competitions. Following the soloists that evening is the International Hoolaulea.

Thursday evening the halau strut their stuff in the Kane, Wahine, and Mixed Group Competitions. Awards are presented to the winners in all five categories as well as the overall point winner on Thursday evening.

Not to be missed at the Hawaii Kupuna Hula Festival is the daily craft fair. Over 30 artists and vendors from around the state are on hand selling everything from koa carvings, jewelry, clothing, original artwork, lauhala and so much more. The craft fair opens 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 14 and 15 in the Keauhou III &IV ballrooms and in the foyer of the Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa Convention Center.

Info: County of Hawaii P&R-Elderly Recreation Services office at 323.4340.