Celebrating Earth Week at the 4th Annual Kupulau Festival

April 2025 - On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center (LCHC) hosted its 4th Annual Kupulau Festival, bringing together the community to celebrate Earth Week and honor Lānaʻi’s unique biocultural landscape. The event featured cultural performances, educational booths and hands-on activities aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.

The festival opened with an oli (chant) by Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻO Lānaʻi, setting a respectful and celebratory tone. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed hula performances by Nā Hula O Laʻikealoha and music by Saul Kahihikolo. Keiki participated in interactive activities such as making pa‘i ‘ai (pounded taro) and creating Hawaiian crafts. A variety of native and Polynesian-introduced plants were available for sale or giveaway, encouraging the cultivation of indigenous flora.

Educational booths hosted by organizations like the Hawaiʻi Nature Center, DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources and The Nature Conservancy provided information on conservation efforts and the importance of preserving native ecosystems. These collaborations highlighted the collective commitment to environmental restoration and cultural preservation.

The Kupulau Festival exemplifies Lāna'i Culture & Heritage Center's mission to foster community engagement through cultural education and environmental stewardship. Supported by KS Kaiāulu and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, the event underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in nurturing the island’s natural and cultural resources.

To view the full article, visit Maui Now.

Mahalo to Maui Now for featuring the Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center’s Earth Week celebration of the 4th Annual Kupulau Festival!

For more information on upcoming events and how to get involved, visit lanaichc.org