Celebrating Earth Week at the 4th Annual Kupulau Festival
May 2025 - Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center celebrated its 4th Annual Kupulau Festival on April 26, welcoming families, students, and community members to a day filled with culture, learning, and aloha. As part of the 2025 Earth Week Kupulau Festival, the event was made possible through the generous support of KS Kaiāulu, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and Pūlama Lānaʻi. For a closer look, check out the event photo gallery on Facebook.
An oli (chant) by Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻO Lānaʻi opened the event. Attendees enjoyed hula by Nā Hula O Laʻikealoha and music by Saul Kahihikolo. Keiki joined interactive activities such as making pa‘i ‘ai (pounded taro) and creating Hawaiian crafts. Educational booths hosted by organizations included Hawaiʻi Nature Center, DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources and more. These partnerships highlighted a collective commitment to environmental restoration and cultural preservation. There was also a showcase of yearlong ʻāina-based education initiatives.
Students of all ages shared their learning through art, presentations, and plants. Seniors presented capstone projects focused on native plants. Keiki displayed drawings of endemic species. Meanwhile, elementary students gave away more than 200 plants and seedlings—from longan to Thai chili peppers to beets.
Throughout the day, families enjoyed hands-on activities, cultural storytelling with hula, and conservation exhibits. These deepened their understanding of Lānaʻi’s unique ecosystem. Kupulau Festival celebrated community connection, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.
As a final note, the Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center extends a heartfelt mahalo to everyone who attended, participated, or supported the event. Looking ahead, next year’s festival will be held on April 25, 2026. Check the events section of the LCHC website in 2026 for all the details.
