The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) has announced a significant investment of $397,000 in seven Hawaiian cultural programs aimed at promoting meaningful cultural experiences for visitors. The Hoʻokipa Malihini Initiative, which translates to “welcome guests,” is designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Hawaiian culture, traditions, and values among tourists.

Preserving Hawaiian Heritage

Through this initiative, the HTA is supporting a range of cultural programs and practitioners, including musicians, hula dancers, weavers, and storytellers. These programs will provide visitors with authentic Hawaiian experiences, showcasing the islands’ rich cultural heritage. Some of the programs being supported include:

• The Kūhiō Beach Hula Show and Torch Lighting: Free hula performances by top hālau hula on select Saturdays and Tuesdays at Kūhiō Beach Hula Mound
• The Aloha Greeting and Cultural Program: Authentic Native Hawaiian-led welcome ceremonies featuring hula, mele (song), and cultural talks on ocean stewardship
• Maui Ola: Cultural Practitioner Initiative: Live cultural performances by Maui-based practitioners at resort venues on Maui and Oʻahu

• The Return of Kapaemahu: Weekly live hula performances telling the story of four māhū who brought healing arts to Hawaiʻi
• Waikīkī By Moonlight: Traditional mele and hula performances celebrating Waikīkī’s rich history and cultural significance
• The Hilo Gateway Information and Hawaiian Culture Program: Hawaiian music, cultural demonstrations, and live hula performances in historic Downtown Hilo
• The Hilo Harbor Pier Greetings Program: Authentic Hawaiian music welcoming cruise ship passengers to Hilo Pier

Promoting Responsible Tourism

The Hoʻokipa Malihini Initiative is part of the HTA’s efforts to promote responsible tourism practices in Hawaiʻi. By supporting cultural preservation and education, the HTA aims to create a more sustainable and respectful tourism industry that benefits both visitors and local communities. According to Caroline Anderson, interim president and CEO of HTA, “These programs are an essential part of how we ensure that the values, traditions, and stories of our people remain at the forefront of Hawaiʻi’s visitor experience.”

This investment in Hawaiian cultural programs reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage and promoting cross-cultural understanding. As Hawaiʻi continues to welcome visitors from around the world, initiatives like the Hoʻokipa Malihini Initiative will play a vital role in shaping the islands’ tourism industry and promoting a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture.