After a two-year hiatus, the Daughters of Hawaii will be hosting their annual “Day at Hulihe‘e Palace” on Saturday.
To honor one of the palace’s most beloved royal residents on her 196th birthday, the celebration is taking place during ka Mahina Olelo Hawaii, Hawaiian Language Month, in tribute to Princess Ruth Ke‘elikolani. Traditionally. this annual community festival opens the palace and grounds to the public, welcoming kama‘aina and visitors alike to celebrate Hawaii’s history, culture, and music, while supporting local vendors and artisans.
This year, due to the ongoing pandemic and for the safety of the community, the festivities will primarily be held virtually with select in-person options available and several ways to get into the spirit of the day. The cornerstones of this hybrid event will feature the Pu‘olo Aloha, an online auction, and $5 admission for kama‘aina to tour the palace. All proceeds from the day support the organization’s mission of historic preservation, as well as maintenance and day-to-day operations of the Palace.
To celebrate from home, supporters can purchase Pu‘olo Aloha through Saturday. This carefully curated supporter box features an assortment of delightful and locally made products including the Daughters’ famous homemade jams and jellies, one-of-a-kind memorabilia from Hulihe‘e Palace, and a ticket for a chance to win a queen-size Hawaiian quilt with two matching shams.
Hawaii-based brand partners include Kona Sea Salts of Hawaii, Kona Kay’s Macadamia Nut Brittle, Greenwell Farms Kona Coffee, Barbie Koncher Studio, and Ha‘a + Co. Pu‘olo Aloha includes 12 premium items and costs $55 with an estimated retail value of $120. Pu‘olo Aloha Deluxe includes 10 premium and 6 premium-deluxe items and costs $155 with an estimated retail value of $220. Pu‘olo Aloha can be picked up at Hulihe‘e Palace on Saturday, or can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. for an additional fee.
Through Feb. 19, an online auction will be live and open for bids featuring very special items and experiences. A compelling collection of coveted treasures and unique collectibles will be available for bid with winners being announced on Feb. 20.
To celebrate in person on Saturday, the Daughters of Hawaii are offering special $5 admission for all kama‘aina. Attendees are invited to explore where the alii came to unwind and learn about Princess Ruth Ke‘elikolani and her powerful legacy. Additionally, annual festival favorites like the Daughters’ tropical floral arrangements and famous baked goods will be available for purchase during Pu‘olo Aloha pickup.
The Daughters of Hawaii restored and converted Hulihe’e Palace, a former home of royal families of Hawai‘i, to a historic house museum in the 1920s. The palace was originally built in 1838. It was first home to High Chief John Adams Kuakini and later home to more members of Hawaiian royalty than any other residence in Hawaii. The palace is open 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
More details can be found on daughtersofhawaii.org/dahp.