The 13th Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture (FestPAC) in Hawaii kicked off yesterday with the Waʻa Arrival Ceremony marking the start of this year’s festival.
Delegates and dignitaries from across the Pacific Islands arrived by canoe at Kualoa Bay on Oʻahu to start this year’s festival.
Volunteers, many from community waʻa clubs, help carry canoes as they arrive at Kualoa Beach for FestPAC.
International islands were formally welcomed by the host of FestPac 2024, Hawaii, through ceremonial chants and showcase of cultural wa’a practices.
The canoe arrival ceremony symbolises unity as traditional canoes brings cultural representatives from the Pacific nations.
The 13th FestPAC official opening start today at 4pm, Hawaii Standard Time.
The 10-day festival aims to promote cultural exchange among Pacific Islanders and highlight the importance of preserving and celebrating one’s heritage.
