At Hālau Kū Māna, the annual celebration of Makahiki is more than just an event—it is an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the values, traditions, and practices of our ancestors. Makahiki, a season of peace, reflection, and abundance, honors Lono, the Hawaiian god of agriculture, fertility, and rain. This time of year, historically marked by the rising of Makaliʻi, reminds us to pause, express gratitude, and reconnect with the land and each other.
This year, our three-day celebration of Makahiki embodied these values through hands-on activities, cultural practices, and spirited community engagement.
Day One: Mālama ʻĀina
We began with mālama ʻāina, dedicating ourselves to the care of our campus. Haumana, kumu, and staff worked together to clean and prepare the spaces where our celebrations would unfold. This day was a reminder of our kuleana to mālama land, an essential foundation of Hawaiian culture and a way to honor Lono, who represents the connection between land and abundance.
Day Two: Practitioner Workshops
The second day was filled with cultural workshops led by practitioners who generously shared their ʻike and skills. Our haumana explored a variety of traditional Hawaiian practices, including Lomilomi, Hei, Ulana lauhala, and Kuʻi kalo, just to name a few. These workshops not only provided hands-on learning but also deepened our connection to the traditions that sustain our identity as Hawaiians.
Day Three: Protocol, Hoʻokupu, and Makahiki Games
The final day began bright and early with protocol and the presentation of hoʻokupu by each class. Gathered in ceremony, we honored Lono and expressed our gratitude for the blessings of the season.
From there, we made our way to the park, where we continued the protocol with hula, offering movement and chant as a sacred expression of connection to our kupuna.
After the ceremony, the celebration shifted into the excitement of Makahiki games, a highlight of the event. These traditional Hawaiian games not only tested skill and strength but also brought everyone together in the spirit of camaraderie and fun. Some of the games included:
ʻŌʻō ihe: Spear throwing, a test of accuracy and precision.
Kukini: Foot races, showcasing speed and endurance.
Moa paheʻe: Sliding a wooden dart on the ground, requiring focus and skill.
ʻUlumaika: Rolling a stone disk between two stakes, a favorite game of ancient Hawaiians.
Alo ʻIa: A lively and competitive dodgeball game, which proved to be a crowd favorite!
The laughter, cheers, and friendly competition reminded us of the joy and unity that define Makahiki. These games also reflect the physical training and preparation once practiced by ancient warriors during this peaceful season.
Reflections on Makahiki
This three-day celebration was a beautiful reminder of the importance of preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian culture. From mālama ʻāina to cultural workshops, from hoʻokupu to the games, every moment was infused with a sense of gratitude, learning, and connection.
As we move forward, we carry with us the lessons of Makahiki: to mālama, to mahalo, and to enjoy the abundance and joy that life offers when we live in harmony with one another and with the land.
Mahalo to all who contributed to this year’s celebration—your efforts made it an unforgettable experience. Let us continue to honor the spirit of Makahiki, not just during this season, but throughout the year.
Mahalo also to KS Kaiāulu for their sponsorship, supporting this event, and enriching our community’s experience.
E ola ka lāhui! Lonoikamakahiki!
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