Join the Hawaii United Okinawa Association for an unforgettable day at the historic ʻIolani Palace on Kamaʻāina Sunday, where all residents are invited to explore the Palace, experience Hawaiian and Okinawan culture, savor delicious food, support local vendors, and enjoy a variety of lively entertainment and engaging workshops. This free event takes place on the second Sunday of every month and is a great way to connect with local heritage and culture.
🎶 Live Performances
✨ Hālau O Nā Pua Kukui, Kumu Hula Ed Collier
✨ Okinawan Cultural Performances
✨ Royal Hawaiian Band
🌿 Cultural Workshops
Hawaiian Workshops
📍 Kanaʻina Building (Old Archives Building)
⏰ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Workshop with ʻUmi Kai
- Limited to 20 participants (ages 18+).
- On-site registration required at Kīnaʻu Gate (Richards Street), signups begin at 8:30 AM.
- Only workshop participants are allowed in the classroom.
Okinawan Workshops
📍 Hale Koa (ʻIolani Barracks – Theatre/Video Room)
Workshop Schedule :
🕙 10:00 – 10:45 AM – Da Legend of Hajichi Tattoos & talk on Hajichi (Okinawan Tattoos) by Lee Tanouchi
🕚 11:00 – 11:45 AM – Okinawan Health & Wellness by Randy Kuba
🕛 12:00 – 12:45 PM and 1PM – 1:45PM – Celebrating Hawaiʻi’s Long Tradition of Okinawan-Owned Restaurants
- Did you know? Over 350 Okinawan-owned restaurants have existed in Hawaiʻi, including Zippy’s, Columbia Inn, Wisteria, and Rainbow Drive-In!
- Talk Story Session with Gene Kaneshiro (Columbia Inn) & Howard Takara (Yuki’s Cafe)
- Moderated by: Shari Tamashiro
- Limited to 30 participants.
- On-site registration required, signups begin at 9:00 AM in front of the Barracks.
- Only workshop participants are allowed in the classroom.
🌏 Historical Spotlight
The Role of Immigration in Hawaiʻi
- 👑 King Kalākaua played a pivotal role in promoting immigration to Hawaiʻi, particularly from Japan, to address the labor needs of the growing sugar industry. His efforts led to the arrival of thousands of Japanese immigrants, shaping Hawaiʻi’s multicultural society.
- 🌱 Kyuzo Toyama, known as the “Father of Okinawan Immigration,” was instrumental in encouraging Okinawans to migrate to Hawaiʻi and other regions in the early 20th century. His leadership helped establish a strong Okinawan presence in Hawaiʻi, contributing to the islands’ rich cultural heritage.
🎧 Free Audio Tours of ʻIolani Palace
Available for the first 500 attendees!
- Must present a valid Hawaiʻi State ID, Hawaiʻi Driver’s License, or proof of Hawaiʻi Residency.
- One complimentary ticket per Hawaiʻi resident.
- Kamaʻāina are encouraged to arrive early!
🍽️ Food & Merchandise
- Food will be available for preorder – stay tuned for more details!
- 125th Anniversary Celebration Display & Merchandise available at Central Pacific Bank’s “Tidepools” (📍Address: 220 South King Street) at Central Pacific Plaza.
🚗 Parking & Event Guidelines
- Parking: Free street parking & Civic Center Municipal Parking Garage (entrance on S. Beretania Street).
- Paid parking is available at Aliʻi Place (9:00 AM to 3:00 PM) for $.50 per half hour, with a maximum fee of $3.
- No parking on ʻIolani Palace grounds.
Event Reminders:
✅ Bring your own mat for sitting on the lawn.
✅ Bring your own water.
🚫 No alcohol allowed.
🍿 Snacks will be available for purchase.
⚠️ All tours and workshops have limited seating and are first come, first served!
💡 Kamaʻāina Sunday’s entertainment and workshops are supported by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority through the Kūkulu Ola Program.
The gates at the Richard Street entrance open at 8:30 AM, and activities and tours run from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore history, culture, and community at one of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic landmarks!
See Less
