Around 250 students from 8 different schools experienced various cultures representing the Pacific Rim. Seeing, touching and experiencing these new cultures opened the students' eyes!
Several students tried playing a traditional Japanese drum. Students were excited about playing the drum and enjoyed its strong sounds. They also danced with performers from the Republic of China (Taiwan).
One student from Highlands Intermediate School said, "This is a great opportunity to see different cultures. I am looking forward to seeing Sunday's parade!"
Michael Slater, Wahiawa Middle school teacher, said "We really appreciate the Honolulu Festival for inviting us. I think our students probably learned more here about world cultures, especially in Asia, than if they stayed in the classroom half of the day."
Experience playing the drum by Saijo Iwaoka Danjiri
Students listened to stories about John Manjiro and Joseph Heco
Challenge the Bamboo Dance
Traditional game from Taiwan
Looking at Temari making
Maui Mikoshi Design Contest
High school students on the Island of Maui compete for the Maui Mikoshi Design Contest every year. This year, students from Kamehameha High School won the contest.
The Maui Mikoshi Unveiling Ceremony was held on March 10 at the Hawaii Convention Center, and the creative Mikoshi was unveiled to the public.
Using the “Pacific Renaissansce” theme as their guide, the students brought the nations of the Pacific together with their Mikoshi. After the ceremony, they were given “Happi” (Japanese Festival clothes) from the Honolulu Festival Foundation. They proudly carried their Mikoshi at Sunday’s parade and enjoyed the Festival.
High school students on the Island of Maui compete for the Maui Mikoshi Design Contest every year. This year, students from Kamehameha High School won the contest.
