Century of celebration: Ho‘olaule‘a marks major milestones

Feb. 20, 2025

Kauʻi Godfrey’s first volunteer experience as a Kamehameha Schools parent was handing out Imua Brownie mix at Ho‘olaule‘a. But what stuck with her wasn’t just the sweet treat – it was the overwhelming sense of gratitude from parents, keiki and volunteers alike.

This year’s Ho‘olaule‘a is a milestone. As Kamehameha Schools Kapālama marks its 100th Association of Teachers and Parents Ho‘olaule‘a, the festival returns to its roots at Bishop Museum on February 22, bringing a century of community and culture full circle. From 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the historic grounds will come alive with reggae music from local bands, signature performances from haumāna, unique shopping at the country store, food trucks featuring diverse cuisine, a silent auction, and for the first time, horse rides for keiki.

As publicity chair, Godfrey’s kuleana has grown over the years, driven by her deep gratitude to Ke Ali‘i Bernice Pauahi Bishop.

“The trajectory of my sons’ lives has changed,” Godfrey said. “Their quality of life has improved. So when I step onto campus, I often think, ‘How am I going to contribute to these students?’ By being grateful and showing it.”

All proceeds from Ho‘olaule‘a support student enrichment grants, scholarships, teacher appreciation activities, ‘ohana engagement and more. Godfrey emphasized that every attendee contributes to the broader Kamehameha Schools experience.

“Even if you are not an alum, your contribution is important. Your support takes care of not just one student but quite possibly their family, their siblings; they could be your friend or your neighbor,” she said. “This kind of event truly brings people together to uplift one another.”

And the celebration isn’t just on O‘ahu. The following weekend, Kamehameha Schools Maui will mark its own milestone – 20 years of Ho‘olaule‘a – continuing the legacy of connection and culture across the islands. Chaired by Teana Kaho‘ohanohano KSK’00, the event is a kind of homecoming that she hopes will capture the same spirit of joy and togetherness she experienced as a boarder.

“I remember my days on the hill and how special they were,” she said. “Back in the day, all the islands had their own booth. There was good music and we’d all dance at Kōnia Field. It was the best day ever.”

It’s a feeling she wants to bring to Maui students, her sons included. After last year’s theme dedicated to Lahaina, this year’s celebration honors resilience and strength: He ‘a‘ali‘i kū mai kākou.

“It reminds us that after 20 years, no matter what we face – as Hawai‘i, as haumāna, as ‘ohana – we will still be here because we’re strong like Pauahi,” Kaho‘ohanohano said. “She and her people faced a lot, and this reminds our students that there are going to be obstacles, but we’re going to be here with you and holomua.”

Maui’s Ho‘olaule‘a will feature a country store, a vendor village, musical entertainment – including a dedicated performance by Kapālama student Kamaha‘o Haumea-Thronas – and the return of the popular Teen Zone, offering energetic activities like laser tag.

All proceeds support Kamehameha Schools Maui students, like funding supplies, cultural huaka‘i and other enriching happenings rooted in Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s vision. It takes thousands of volunteer parents, ‘ohana, students and staff to make these festivals possible for communities.

“Working collaboratively has been key, and everyone has been striving to do their best to ensure event success. All our parents, no matter what their role is, have an immense appreciation to Ke Ali‘i Pauahi for the opportunity their child was given. The volunteers and I want to give back so that her legacy is prosperous,” Godfrey said.

As the lāhui comes together once again, Ho‘olaule‘a continues to be a celebration of the strength and gratitude of the Kamehameha ‘ohana. Whether attending, donating or volunteering, every effort ensures Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s vision for Native Hawaiian learners lives on.