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A Season of Growth, Service, and Aloha: Spring 2026 Hālau Highlights
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
As we move into the summer season, we pause to reflect on the many blessings, opportunities, and shared experiences that filled our hālau during the months of April and May.
Following the excitement of our inaugural hōʻike, No Kuʻu Kumu, our hālau continued to gather, learn, serve, and grow together through a variety of meaningful events and activities.
Mahalo Pāʻina: Celebrating Our Hōʻike Success
In April, our hālau ʻohana gathered for our Mahalo Pāʻina to celebrate the success of our inaugural hōʻike. It was a wonderful opportunity to relax, share food, laughter, and memories while recognizing the hard work of our haumāna, volunteers, musicians, families, and supporters who helped bring our vision to life.
The hōʻike may have concluded, but the relationships strengthened through the process continue to flourish. Gatherings such as these remind us that hula is about more than performance—it is about community, connection, and aloha.
Lei Day Performance at Downtown Summerlin
The month of May began with an exciting performance opportunity as members of our hālau participated in the Lei Day and May Day Parade celebration at Downtown Summerlin.
This event allowed our students to share the beauty of Hawaiian culture with the Las Vegas community while honoring our Hawaiian history through the Hula Kuʻi, Kamamakakaua. This mele recalls a significant moment in Hawaiian history at ʻIolani Palace during the reign of King Kalākaua. We are grateful for every opportunity to represent our culture and hālau beyond the classroom.
Sharing Hawaiian Culture Throughout the Las Vegas Community
May continued to be a busy and rewarding month as our hālau was blessed with several opportunities to share Hawaiian culture through mele and hula across the Las Vegas Valley.
Asian American Pacific Islander Luau – MGM Grand Conference Center
On May 15, members of our hālau performed at the Asian American Pacific Islander Luau held at the MGM Grand Conference Center. The event celebrated the diverse cultures and traditions represented throughout the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. We were honored to represent Hawaiʻi and share the stories, history, and beauty of our culture through hula.
Racing to Recovery Gala – South Point Grandview Lounge
On May 22, our hālau was invited to perform at the 26th Annual Racing to Recovery Gala Fundraiser held at the South Point Casino Grandview Lounge. This special event brought together community members in support of a meaningful cause, and we were grateful for the opportunity to contribute through cultural entertainment and aloha.
Food Access Fair – Downtown Container Park
Later in the month, we continued our outreach by performing at the Food Access Fair at Downtown Container Park. This family-friendly community event provided another wonderful opportunity to connect with residents and visitors while sharing Hawaiian music, dance, and cultural traditions.
We extend our heartfelt mahalo to the organizers of each event for welcoming our hālau. We are always grateful for opportunities to represent Hawaiian culture, build community connections, and share the aloha spirit through the art of hula.
Lei Poʻo Workshop
One of the highlights of May was our Lei Poʻo Workshop. Students and family members gathered with their own artificial flowers and greenery to create beautiful lei poʻo while learning firsthand the patience, creativity, and dedication required of lei makers.
The workshop provided more than just a craft project—it offered valuable lessons about preparation, perseverance, and appreciation for the artisans who continue these cherished Hawaiian traditions. Most importantly, it created precious time for our hālau ʻohana to learn and create together.
Many participants left with not only a completed lei poʻo, but also a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind this beloved Hawaiian adornment.
Continuing Our Educational Journey
Throughout the spring, our students continued their studies in hula, Hawaiian history, genealogy, language, and cultural practices. Our Alakaʻi haumāna have been actively researching and documenting their family moʻokūʻauhau, strengthening their connections to their ancestors while developing a deeper understanding of identity, heritage, and kuleana.
As always, our goal remains the same: to perpetuate Hawaiian culture through meaningful education, respectful practice, and community engagement.
Looking Ahead
As we enter the summer months, we look forward to new performances, workshops, cultural experiences, and opportunities to strengthen the bonds within our hālau ʻohana.
We are also excited to begin offering Private Hula Lessons for individuals seeking personalized instruction. Whether you are preparing for a special event, learning a hula for a wedding, deepening your understanding of Hawaiian culture, or simply looking for one-on-one guidance, these sessions provide a unique opportunity to learn at your own pace with Kumu Kawahine.
Private in-person hula lessons are available for dancers of all experience levels and can be tailored to your individual goals and interests. We invite anyone interested to reserve a session and begin their own hula journey or continue growing in their existing practice.
🌺 Continue Your Hula Journey with Private Lessons
Ready to begin your hula journey or take your skills to the next level? Book a Private Hula Lesson with Kumu Kawahine today and receive personalized instruction tailored to your goals.
Mahalo nui loa to our students, families, musicians, supporters, and community partners who continue to walk this journey with us. Your commitment, encouragement, and aloha make all of this possible.
Me ke aloha,
Kumu Kawahine Hoʻomanawanui
Hālau Anuhea i ka Pōli ʻo Kawahine Hoʻomanawanui
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