HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The 44th annual Okinawan Festival is wrapping up its weekend celebration of cultural heritage and community at the Hawaii Convention Center, highlighting a deep historical bond between Okinawa and Hawaii.
The two-day festival showcased live music, traditional performances, and local craft vendors. Beyond the performances, the event celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA).
“Because of the community and all the leaders that helped preserve and perpetuate our community, and because of them, we’re here for our 75th year,” said HUOA President Frances Kuba.
Organizers and attendees noted the unique spirit of the festival, which is entirely put on by volunteers.
“The Hawaiians talk about laulima. Everybody helps out to get a job done, collective effort. The Okinawans have yui maru,” said past HUOA President David Arakawa. “And this whole event is put on by volunteers. So that’s an example of yui maru working together.”
Arakawa also emphasized the Okinawan philosophy of Ichariba Choodee. He explained, “‘Once we meet, we’re brothers and sisters.’ That’s the Okinawan spirit and that’s exactly like the Hawaiian concept of ohana.”
Gov. Josh Green recently visited Okinawa and noted how vital the relationship is to the state.
“We have a lot of these relationships, but Okinawa has a deeper presence than many, if not most, here in Hawaii,” Green said. He also noted that amidst recent storm systems like Hurricane Lowell, “anytime we can have something positive happening, it’s great.”
Food remained a major draw for the crowds, with long lines for traditional Okinawan favorites like soba and fresh, hot andagi.
This year’s event also featured a modern culinary collaboration with Prince Waikiki, bringing an izakaya-inspired House of Sakura pop-up to the convention center with a menu of Okinawan-infused dishes crafted by Executive Chef Brooke Tadena.
For more information and future events, visit OkinawanFestival.com.
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