Makahiki At Bellows Beach To Honor Season With Games, Music

Makahiki season returns Saturday to Bellows Beach Park, where Waimanalo Hawaiian Civic Club will host its fifth annual Makahiki Competition and Ceremonial event in partnership with Bellows AFS from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Register at 7:30 a.m.)

The free festivities begin at 8 a.m. with the traditional procession of Lono (guardian of peace and health), as well as other presentations and announcements, including an oli by Manu Boyd and a history of makahiki from Shad Kane, all facilitated by emcee Kalani Kalima.

Competition starts at 9:30, with keiki and adult contests in ‘ulu maika (stone bowling), moa pahe’e (dart sliding), hukihuki (tug of war) and ‘o’o ihe (spear throwing). There also will be an exhibition in haka moa (wrestling) and kaka la’au (stick fighting). An awards ceremony will follow.

The kanikapila begins at noon with Keanu and Halau Pu’uwai ‘O Kahanuola, followed by Malanai at 1 p.m., Na ‘Ohana o ka Malamalama at 2, a Lua presentation from Ramsay Taum at 3, Paula Fuga at 3:30 and The Wreck at 4:30.

Those who want to stick around at night can enjoy a stargazing session with Polynesian Voyaging Society beginning at 6:30. To participate, download an application and consent form at hoolua.org and bring all completed documents to the event by 8 a.m.

For details about camping permits, volunteering, vendor booths and more, call Kui Mahoe at 386-6248, email uilani99@yahoo.com or visit hoolua.org.

(Another festival option is available in Makahiki Nui at Kualoa Regional Park’s Large Group Site A, starting at 8 a.m. Saturday with traditional games.

Call Umi Kai at 840-5510 for details or email ulupono1@gmail.com.)