Waikoloa Kids Put on a Great Annual Ho'olaule'a Performance

Parents of kids attending Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School were treated to a great annual Ho’olaule’a performance last Friday, May 20th, 2011.

Another school year was ending with the Ho’olaule’a celebration. Ho’olaule’a is a Hawaiian word meaning “a gathering to connect in joyful celebration, to unite in joy.” “Ho’o” means the process of moving toward one another; “laule’a” signifies a joyful celebration of sharing food, dance, games, uniting and connecting in a festive atmosphere.

After the introductory speech from the principal of the Waikoloa School, parents and attendees were able to watch the Royal Court procession, and welcome the King and Queen of the ceremony on the lower field of the campus. Then, the performance started with the pre-school kids leaving the stage to the junior/kindergartners, 1st graders, and so on, up to the 8th graders. Under gorgeous sunshine, it was just a beautiful day!

Kids prepared their performances for weeks making sure they knew their songs and dances by heart. They also came to school dressed per code. For instance, the 1st graders performed “Papa ‘ekahi” wearing green aloha prints, or any green attire with Plumeria leis around their necks and 2 green leaf kupe’e (wristbands). Proud parents had a couple of minutes after the performance was over to snap a shot of sweet memories.

This celebration was a nice way for parents, teachers, helpers, families, and friends to support the Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School kids and to come together. It also reminded all of us what a great opportunity for Waikoloa Village parents, homeowners, or residents to have such a large and nice school campus right in the heart of the village.

Another family-friendly cultural activities in my neck of the woods, I love Waikoloa!