Aloha Festival Bliss: Celebrating Bravery and Hula at the Shoreline Hotel Waikiki
The Aloha Festival is a celebration like no other, where the spirit of Hawaii comes alive through vibrant parades, cultural performances, and an atmosphere of pure joy. This year, the festival embraces a powerful theme drawn from the saying, “ʻAʻa i ka hula, waiho ka hilahila ma ka hale” – “When one wants to dance the hula, bashfulness should be left at home.”
Embracing the Theme: ʻAʻa i ka Hula
ʻAʻa, which means to be brave, to dare, and to challenge, is a fitting theme for this year’s celebration. It’s a reminder of hula’s resilience—a vital cultural artform that was once driven underground due to prohibition and nearly lost. Hula exists today because of the courage of our kūpuna, who defied these challenges and preserved this cherished tradition. It’s because of their bravery that hula has become a symbol of Hawaiian culture, captivating hearts worldwide and drawing people to our islands.
This year, we honor those who have kept the spirit of hula alive, particularly our kumu hula—our teachers and hula masters. They are the ones who dare to continue this tradition, passing down the artform to future generations. Through their guidance, our hands and feet tell the beautiful stories of our land and people.
E nā kumu hula, we dance for you! This year, we celebrate the brave, the daring, the challenge seekers. E ʻaʻa mai kākou i ka hula! Let us dare to dance!
Dive into the Aloha Festival
The Aloha Festival offers a rich tapestry of events that embody this year’s theme. Kicking off the festivities on September 7th is the grand Royal Court Investiture, where you can witness the traditional ceremony that honors Hawaii’s monarchy. The colorful Floral Parade is a must-see, with vibrant floats adorned with tropical flowers, hula dancers, and marching bands that fill the streets with music and joy.
On Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, from 6 – 9:30 p.m., experience the 70th Annual Waikīkī Hoʻolauleʻa, Hawai‘i’s largest annual block party, held on Kalākaua Avenue. Stroll along the avenue, sample local food, enjoy live music, and take in top-notch entertainment—all in the heart of Waikīkī. The energy is infectious, and it’s an experience that captures the true essence of Hawaiian hospitality and festivity.
A week later, on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., make sure to catch the 76th Annual Floral Parade. Starting at Ala Moana Park and making its way through Kalākaua Avenue to Kapi‘olani Park, this vibrant parade showcases a colorful procession of horseback riders, lively performances, and breathtaking floats covered in Hawaiian flowers. The Floral Parade is a visual feast that highlights the natural beauty of the islands and the rich cultural traditions of Hawaii.
Shoreline Hotel Waikiki is located just a short stroll from all these activities, making it the perfect base for your festival experience. This boutique hotel reflects the colorful energy of Hawaii and offers a comfortable retreat where you can unwind after a day of festivities. Aloha awaits!
