Puuhonua O Honaunau NHP holds annual Hawaiian cultural festival this weekend

Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park hosts a two-day Hawaiian cultural festival this weekend in South Kona.

The festival, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, also marks the 56th anniversary of the establishment of Puuhonua O Honaunau as a national park. It is themed Ka La Hiki Ola — An Extension of Life. Ka La Hiki Ola is a philosophy rooted in the chants and practices of Puuhonua, through which traditions are renewed, generation after generation.

Saturday’s festivities include games, arts and crafts, hula and canoe rides. On Sunday, there will be games, arts, a hukilau and Hawaiian food tasting. The Hawaii Pacific Parks Association-sponsored event is free to the public and park entrance fees are waived both days.

Encompassing about 420 acres, the park contains many important sites that reflect more than 400 years of Hawaiian history. Such sites include the historic 1871 Trail as well as the remains of an abandoned farming and fishing village known as Kiilae Village, among others. It was established in July 1955.

Info: 328-2326, ext. 1702, or www.nps.gov/puho. ■