This weekend, Tempe Town Lake will once again play host to the yearly Arizona Aloha Festival. So, get ready to put on a lei and get your hips moving in the spirit of the event.
The Hawaiian culture will be honored in a two-day event at 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, lasting from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. This celebration is free for all to attend.
The event will feature various forms of amusement, displays of cultural heritage, and merchants providing a glimpse into Polynesian customs.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the event. To commemorate, there will be numerous performances held on two separate stages. Spectators will be treated to a journey through Hawaii and the South Pacific by the talented dancers.
Visitors can also enjoy an island marketplace, where a variety of vendors will offer a selection of exquisite art, handmade crafts, fashionable clothing, and home decorations. While some of the items may have a contemporary touch, many feature distinctive designs inspired by the South Pacific.
There will be numerous activities for both children and parents to enjoy at the yearly Arizona Aloha Festival.
There will be opportunities for visitors to both learn and engage in a diverse range of demonstrations. In previous years, the festival has held various events such as hula and lei lessons, storytelling sessions, and cooking demonstrations.
During this session, attendees will be taught the techniques of using Māori poi balls and the rules of kōnane, a strategic game typically played with white coral, black lava, and carved stone by two players.
Children can also participate in interactive arts and crafts sessions where they can create and take home their own creations. People of all ages have the opportunity to discover and practice a Tahitian rhythm, paying homage to the traditional log drums that have been integral in both dance and communication in Polynesian culture.
This year, there is a variety of approximately 30 food vendors available for visitors to enjoy, from garlic shrimp and Hawaiian BBQ to noodles, sushi, Korean chicken, and even shaved ice.
Click here to learn more about the event.
