Hālau Makana Polynesian Cultural Arts Center invites Alamedans to step into the vibrant world of Polynesian culture with Hana Hou Hō’ike on Sunday, October 19, at Mastick Senior Center, 1155 Santa Clara Avenue. The free all-day event starts at 9 a.m. and concludes at 4 p.m.
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Gentle Hawaiian music and the fierce drumbeats of Hālau Makana Polynesian Cultural Arts Center of Tahiti will play in the background while brightly attired dancers perform hula, Tahitian, and Māori dances that bring the islands to life, telling stories of connection to land, ancestors, and island deities.
Kumu Lani Cid-Iulio, director of Hālau Makana, envisioned the Hō’ike (recital) as a heartfelt way to give back to the community that has supported Hālau Makana for 27 years. Everyone is invited to this lively, free community showcase of Polynesian culture, dance, and music.
Participate in free hands-on workshops where you can strum a ukulele, sway your hips in a hula lesson, string together a colorful flower lei, beat a Tahitian drum, craft a delicate pikake bracelet, or try out a Tahitian dance for yourself. Be sure to register in advance [2] to secure your spot for some serious fun.
All that dancing and crafting is bound to work up an appetite, so refuel with a tasty lunch—bento boxes from Shaka Shack for only $15! (Make sure to pre-order online [2].)
After lunch, stroll over to the Social Hall for the main event—the Hō’ike! Watch workshop participants display their newfound talents and skills, and seasoned performers from Hālau Makana’s dance studio and Mastick Senior Center’s Hula class take the stage in a dazzling showcase of Polynesian music and dance that will leave you smiling.
But wait, there’s more! Don’t miss the silent auction, where you can bid on Hawaiian-themed baskets, snag a rare tour of Pixar studios, treat yourself to a Wine Country Getaway, discover unique jewelry, and uncover many other surprises. Celebrate the spirit of the islands right here in your own backyard and take home a treasure or two.
Hana Hou Hō’ike is made possible through the generous support of the City of Alameda.
Ophelia Nicandro is a member of the Alameda Post Board of Directors.