Aloha Festivals Announces 2005 Theme - Nâ Honu Hawai‘i – The Spirit Within

Honolulu, HI (PRWEB) May 29, 2005

Aloha Festivals announces “Nâ Honu Hawai‘i – The Spirit Within” as its 2005 theme. The new theme is a tribute to Hawai‘i’s honu, or sea turtles and celebrates the living bond Hawaiian people maintain with their history, and with the viability of their culture, land, and sea. Showcasing Hawai‘i’s music, dance, and history from September through October, the festival will reflect the connection between the Hawaiian people and their island environment.

Honu have dwelled in Hawai‘i’s ocean waters for millennia, and as the symbol of the 2005 festival they ground the celebration in tradition. Honu link Hawaiians to their past, while encouraging a clear dedication to the future and to a sustenance of cultural awareness.

Hawaiians, as keen observers of nature and protectors of the sea, have cared for the honu, ensuring their return over the ages to bear their young in the sands of their birth. Today a protected species, the responsibility rests upon us to nurture their survival for all generations, as it is pono, or right to do so. The honu are a Hawaiian symbol of longevity, peace and the spirit within.

Honoring Hawai‘i’s heritage and culture for 59 years, Aloha Festivals celebrates with pageantry, parades, street parties, concerts and family activities that span six islands during September and October. Hawaiian Airlines is the statewide presenting sponsor of Aloha Festivals for 2005 through 2006.

Major funding is also provided by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Most events are made possible due to the generous sponsorship and support of private and corporate donations. In 1947, Aloha Week was created as a public festival to honor the cosmopolitan heritage of Hawai‘i through music, dance and history. The first Aloha Week was held during the fall as a modern-day makahiki, the ancient Hawaiian festival of music, dance, games and feasting. By 1974, Aloha Week expanded to a month-long slate of activities, with events on six islands. In 1991, Aloha Week was renamed Aloha Festivals to reflect the festival’s expansion. Nearing its 60th anniversary, the celebration now encompasses hundreds of events. While each island features a parade and Ho‘olaule‘a, or block party, Aloha Festivals also showcases events that are unique to certain islands such as the Ms. Aloha Nui Contest on the Big Island honoring the large stature of island women.

For the most current schedule of events, visit http://alohafestivals.com To purchase an Aloha Festivals ribbon ($5) and receive the official 2005 program guide, call (808) 589-1771. Ribbon sales help to fund the statewide festival and provide for discount admission to some events.

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