Kapuaikaula Makahiki event-goers participate in hakamoa, a one-legged wrestling competition during Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam's annual Makahiki event, held in a previous year, at Hickam Harbor Beach on JBPHH. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Stoltz)
Navy Region Hawaii
Public Affairs Office
The annual Makahiki at Puuloa, better known today as Pearl Harbor, will be celebrated at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2020.
The Makahiki, or Thanksgiving festival, will feature Ho`okupu (gift) presentations, cultural demonstrations, and ancient Makahiki games. The annual event is organized by the Oahu Council of Hawaiian Civic Clubs and provides an opportunity for military families to learn about the rich pre-western Hawaiian traditions and history of the lands surrounding Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
Before the Makahiki begins at 9 a.m., senior members of Navy Region Hawaii will participate with paddlers from Kamaha`o Canoe Club in carrying Lono, the deified guardian of agriculture, rain, health and peace to the shore. The canoe will journey into Pearl Harbor at Rainbow Bay Marina harbor. Once on shore, they will be greeted and a blast of the conch shell will announce their arrival, and the Makahiki will commence.
One of the highlights of the event is the Makahiki games. These games were a test of strength and skill for competitors to win recognition for their prowess. Adults and children can participate in games such as `ulu maika (stone rolling), moa pahe`e (dart tossing), haka moa (one-leg wrestling), and maka ihe (spear throwing).
The event is an opportunity for military and their families to learn more about Hawaiian history and culture.