As featured in “Hanana- Maui’s Calendar of Events” in Maui Nō Ka ʻOi Magazine.

The awakening chant rings out over the sands of Honokahua Beach (D.T. Fleming) at sunrise as dozens of visitors, kama‘āina and cultural practitioners gather to welcome the sun and cleanse their energy. The e ala e tradition signals the commencement of the Celebration of the Arts, an annual festival that explores all facets of Hawaiian culture. Held over two days at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, the event connects guests with the state’s most renowned Hawaiian artisans, educators, cultural practitioners and entertainers.

Just like the opening ceremony, the event is rooted in all things Hawaiian. Cultural practitioners adhere to traditional protocol by chanting their genealogy and stating their intentions before entering the hotel. Hawaiian artisans are showcased at every turn, from stone carvers and lauhala weavers to ‘ohe hano ihu (bamboo nose flute) makers. Meanwhile, the event schedule is packed with cultural demonstrations, workshops, panelist Q&As, films, music and hula that runs late into the night.

Yet it’s not the traditional art displays or adherence to protocol that sets the festival apart from other cultural events: It’s the connection and understanding that it invites. Visitors are encouraged to sit, talk story and engage with artisans, eager to share not only their craft but their heritage.

“I just love to see the emotions and the camaraderie that’s formed between our visitors and the practitioners,” said Clifford Nae’ole, the resort’s Hawaiian Cultural Advisor who has served as event chair for Celebration of the Arts for over 30 years. “It’s not your status quo hotel experience.”

The Celebration of Arts is free, except for the Celebration of Island Tastes.

Call The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua concierge for Celebration of Island Tastes tickets at (808) 669-6200. See the full schedule at KapaluaCelebrationOfTheArts.com

Photos courtesy of Mickey Pauole/Ritz Carlton Kapalua