Earth Week Celebrated at Kupulau Festival
May 2025 - Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center proudly celebrated its 4th Annual Kupulau Festival on April 26. The event welcomed families, students, partners from across the tate and community members to enjoy a day filled with culture, learning, and aloha.
Highlights included an oli by Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻO Lānai, hula by Nā Hula O Laʻikealoha and music by Saul Kahihikolo. Keiki joined hands-on activities such as making pa‘i ‘ai (pounded taro) and creating Hawaiian crafts.
In addition to the booths and performances, the festival highlighted ʻāina-based education initiatives. Students of all ages showcased their learning through art displays, presentations and plant giveaways. Seniors introduced their capstone projects focused on native plants and other students shared their drawings of endemic species. Elementary students gave away over 200 seedlings and plants, including longan, Thai chili peppers and beets.
Throughout the day, families explored hands-on activities and conservation exhibits. At the same time, organizations including Hawaiʻi Nature Center and DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources hosted educational booths. These booths showed their their shared dedication to environmental restoration and cultural preservation.
Looking ahead, they are excited for next year’s Kupulau Festival, set for April 25, 2026. Be sure to check the website Events section for future updates.
Ultimately, the Kupulau Festival reflects the Center’s mission to build community through cultural education and environmental stewardship. With ongoing support from KS Kaiāulu, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Pūlama Lānaʻi, the Center continues to show the impact of collective action.
The event was featured in Maui Now. For more information on upcoming events and how to get involved, visit lanaichc.org.
