When is makahiki 2010

Work is pau, the food has been harvested. People play sports, play games, have ceremonies honoring Lono, the god of agriculture and harvesting. Warring ceases; the time of Ku is passed. Many other indigenous cultures observe this time of year similarly as winter approaches and families visit and entertain each other with good relaxing times. However, the games for all ages begin at 9 a. I suggest you find out what might be going on in your area, or come to Punaluu, or organize some festivities yourself.

Ka Lahui Hawaii is the evolutionary product of three generations of Hawaiians who have sought to regain their Native lands and to re-establish themselves as a self-governing people. Email Address:. Replace with your email address. Recently marked by the simultaneous rising of the Makaliki Pleiades constellation in the east and the setting of the sun in the west, the Makahiki season began.

From October until February, the Makahiki season honors the Hawaiian god Lono, the guardian of peace and health, as he arrives for the transition from Ku, a time of war, politics and construction, to Lono, a time of relaxation and celebration of life.

In centuries past, Makahiki facilitated an interaction between recent settlers and those already living there, Kane said. The time of peace allowed for communication between chiefs, fishermen and farmers from all around the islands. It gave them time to reflect on what they had and to be grateful for it, said Kuulei Laughlin, president, Hawaiian Civic Club of Waimanalo.

After Lono arrived by way of huakai, the ceremonial pu, or conch shells, were sounded to begin the ceremonial procession. Kalama Cabigon offered the pule wehe, or opening prayer, followed by the Royal Order of Kamehameha procession and the hookupu protocol presentation. Children delved into their culture by participating in a variety of Hawaiian exhibition and competition games including spear throwing and stone disk rolling. Preserving and enhancing Hawaiian Culture was the impetus for bringing back the Hawaiian games.

The celebration of peace over a four-month period reflected well on the Hawaiian sense of values. During the season of Makahiki, all wars were put on hold, as agriculture and subsistence became the focus. Warriors went home to plant, fish and to care for their families and aina. Today the values of the Makahiki season are even more important. The large crowd was encouraged to grow their own food at home, and to teach their children to fish, hunt and farm.

Of course the Saturday games were as great as ever, with the spot light on our elementary schools. As always, it was the hoards of screaming students, the supportive teachers and principals, and the proud parents that always make these games so successful. In the third grade Huki Huki Championship, everyone was cheering for the underdog Maunaloa team, as there was a sense of hope and sadness, with the realization that Maunaloa Elementary School may not be with us next year.

The spectators were encouraged to support Maunaloa with their efforts in keeping their historic school open. Sign up is easy.