By Sabah Karimi
Each of the Hawaiian Islands has developed and adopted its own distinct cultural traditions and norms, but all the islands are steeped in ancient traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. From the traditional hula dance to the exchange of leis, native Hawaiians participate in several activities that celebrate life, show respect for one another and honor their ancestors. Whether you're visiting Hawaii as a first-time visitor or are a return guest, you'll have the opportunity to participate in several ancient Hawaiian traditions every season.
The Luau
This Hawaiian tradition is a large gathering centered around food. The main attraction of the buffet experience is the Kahlua pig steamed in an underground oven and served with platters of traditional appetizers such as haupia (coconut pudding), limu (seaweed), poke (chilled and marinated fish cubes) and laulaus (pork cooked inside leaves). The luau typically takes place outdoors, and is the Hawaiian equivalent of the American barbecue.
The Hula
This traditional dance was once a form of worship, but has now become a nightly tradition throughout Hawaii where women dance to flowing music from a ukulele and instruments made from native coconut gourds and other materials found on the islands. The classic hula dance tells an ancient story, and the performance involves several graceful, rhythmic movements. It is a celebration of life on the islands and has become a fundamental part of Hawaiian culture.
Making and Exchanging Leis
Making flower garlands by stringing flowers into single or multiple strands is one of the most recognized traditions of Hawaiian culture, and has its roots in ancient Hawaiian royal culture. The lei signifies special occasions and honors the person it is given to; it is a symbol of sharing, and islanders typically exchange leis to celebrate birthdays, welcome or greet new visitors, celebrate anniversaries or honor one another on May 1, which is Lei Day in Hawaii.
Making Kapa Clothing
Bark cloth (kapa) is used to make a variety of household tools and materials, and can also be used to make perfume, clothing, and painting canvas. Kapa is made from the inner bark of native trees and plants; it is soaked in salt water and then pounded into a thin pulp. When finished, this pulp can be transformed into a light fabric and painted with traditional designs to make clothing and accessories. This fabric and material-making process is a tradition that lives on to this present day.
Blowing of the Conch Shell
A large seashell native to the islands is played like a trumpet to honor festivals and special celebrations throughout the year. Large conch shells can be blown in a special way and heard for miles around the island. It is common for a conch shell blower to blow the shell once in four different directions to symbolize the four elements of the universe; blowing the shell to the east greets the sunrise; to the west honors the setting of the sun; to the north pays respect to the stars; and to the south pays respect to the forefathers.
About the Author:
Sabah Karimi is a professional web and print copywriter with an educational background in Business Administration and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. She writes in several niches including travel, fashion, beauty, health, fitness, lifestyle and small business. Karimi received a Top Content Creator Award from Demand Studios in 2009.
