Each year, Kamehameha Schools honors the life and enduring legacy of Kauikeaouli through an ‘aha mele and celebration at his birthplace, Keauhou Bay, by highlighting organizations that uplift the community through education. Be a part of the commemoration at the 24th annual Kauikeaouli Festival on March 21-22 at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa!
His reign marked a period of profound change. He established a constitutional government, safeguarded Hawai‘i’s sovereignty during the 1843 British occupation and restoration, and championed universal education. Ahead of his time, he established Hawaiʻi’s public school system in 1840 – decades before many other nations – laying the foundation for a kingdom built on education and enlightenment.
This year’s festival theme reflects that vision for his people: “He aupuni palapala ko‘u” – Mine is the kingdom of literacy.
“This festival offers a unique opportunity for the community to reconnect with the cherished ʻāina of Ka Lani Kauikeaouli,” said Kilohana Hirano, Kamehameha Schools community strategist for Hawaiʻi Island. “We invite kānaka to return and engage with these lands that hold deep historical and cultural importance.”
A proud partner of the birthday celebration is the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, a nonprofit founded to perpetuate Hawaiian culture by preserving two of Hawaiʻi’s royal palaces and Kauikeaouli’s birth site.
Festival highlights
March 17: A Day of reflection
8:30 a.m. – The Daughters of Hawaiʻi will open the celebration with a talk story session at SeaQuest, featuring historian Boyd Bond. A procession to Keauhou Bay will follow to offer ho’okupu.
March 21: Panel on historic preservation
5 p.m. – Experts Kainoa Daines, Kamana Beamer, Kolby Akamu Moser, Shane Akoni Palacat-Nelsen and Ulalia Woodside Lee will discuss how Hawai‘i preserves its historic and cultural sites.
March 22: Stewardship & Celebration
2 p.m. – The Keauhou Bay Management Plan Presentation by Marissa Harman, Kamehameha Schools director of planning and development, held at Kaleiopapa Convention Center, followed by a guided walking tour.
5 – 9:30 p.m. – ʻAha Mele featuring Brother Noland, Kamakakēhau Fernandez, Poʻokela Wood, Kumu Hula Keʻala Ching, and Ka Pā Hula O Nā Wai Iwi Ola.
Join us in celebrating a leader whose vision for an enlightened and independent Hawai‘i still resonates today. For more information on the festival and the life of Kauikeaouli, visit www.ksbe.edu/kauikeaouli.
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