This Festival Celebrates Indigenous Pacific Islanders and Maps Out How Visitors to Hawaii Can Do the Same

The Festival of Pacific Island Arts & Culture made its triumphant return to Hawaii after an eight-year hiatus.

A trip to Hawaii wasn't in my immediate plans due to the nature of all that locals endured over the past few years. Between inflation, a water crisis in O’ahu, and Maui’s heartbreaking fire, the idea of taking a vacation there didn’t resonate with me. But an invitation to attend a cultural festival (the Festival of Pacific Island Arts & Culture or FestPAC) coupled with my desire to learn more about the people, the land, and the impact of tourism, led me to take my first trip to this magnificent corner of the globe.

FestPAC isn't just a festival; it's a homecoming for the diverse peoples of the Pacific, a reunion of traditions, and a powerful reminder of the beauty and resilience of Indigenous cultures. I was surrounded by the melodies of traditional songs and the sight of dancers in stunning regalia during this vibrant celebration. (FestPAC made its triumphant return to Hawaii this year after an eight-year hiatus.)

This year’s theme — “Ho’oulu Lāhui” or Regenerating Oceania — spoke to not only the cultural and artistic aspects of the nations from across Melanesia, Polynesia, and Micronesia but also addressed contemporary issues like climate change and land preservation. Hawaii, with its spirit of aloha, was the perfect host for such an occasion. The aloha spirit is more than just a greeting — it embodies love, peace, and compassion, which permeates every interaction and made me feel very much at home. As travelers, understanding and embracing this principle can transform our journeys into deeply enriching experiences.

“FestPAC holds historical significance for Hawaii and other Pacific cultures by serving as a catalyst for cultural revitalization and heritage preservation, while providing economic and educational benefits for participants and attendees. For more than 50 years, it has continued to serve as a vital platform for celebrating and safeguarding the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific,” Aaron Sāla, FestPAC Hawaii’s director, told Travel + Leisure.

From observing the weaving of leaves made into baskets and handmade crafted jewelry partnered with the intentional dance movements conveying generational stories to the Indigenous tattooing I marveled at the Bishop Museum, I was left completely in awe of the people and their sacred practices. I discovered that the true essence of Hawaii and its people lies in their profound connection to the land and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. Inspired by this, I sought out ways to give back and immerse myself in the culture more meaningfully.

“By approaching Hawaiian cultural practices respectfully with an open mind and a willingness to learn, visitors will have a more enriching experience. Attend cultural events and demonstrations with humility, follow protocols and guidance from local practitioners, and always show respect for our sacred sites and traditions. If you’re not sure, ask,” Kalani Kaʻanaʻana, Hawaii’s Tourism Authority's chief stewardship officer, told T+L.

One of the most rewarding experiences was during my tour of Kualoa Ranch, a private nature reserve that serves as a sustainable recreational site. Many people come for the breathtaking views and the many Hollywood movie sets from blockbusters like Jurassic World and Jumanji, but I came to give something back. With my UTV tour guide, I planted a tree and was heartbroken to hear that this part of the tour many people opt out of. I took pride in erupting the soil from the ground and planting my tree. And though it will take 150 years to reach its heights, these trees are still vital for restoring Hawaii’s unique ecosystems, which have suffered from deforestation and invasive species. I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to the Earth.

The Hawaiian principle of mālama ʻāina — caring for the land — guided my efforts, with my tour guide teaching me that stewardship of the environment is integral to the culture.

“Just as we have a responsibility to care for our people and place, we ask that visitors take pride in this effort as well," Ka’ana’ana said. "That means supporting locally-owned businesses, staying on managed trails, keeping a far distance from protected marine life, using reef-safe sunscreen, and giving back by participating in voluntourism opportunities.”

Her recommendations for travelers include visiting national historic sites, parks, and wahi pana (sacred places) across the islands that offer profound connections to the heritage and spiritual roots. “Places like ʻĪao Valley State Monument on Maui, Iolani Palace on Oʻahu, Kōkeʻe State Park on Kauaʻi, and Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau on the island of Hawaii hold great cultural and historical significance. Be sure to explore respectfully and consider hiring local guides to share the deeper meanings behind these special places,” Ka’ana’ana said.

"FestPAC isn't just a festival; it's a homecoming for the diverse peoples of the Pacific, a reunion of traditions, and a powerful reminder of the beauty and resilience of Indigenous cultures."

Hawaii’s tourism offers the Mālama Hawaii program for visitors to make a positive impact through voluntourism activities, such as tree planting and beach clean-ups. These activities also offer deep insights into the cultural values and practices that define Hawaiian life.

As my time in Hawaii came to an end, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. FestPAC was a reminder of the resilience and vibrancy of Pacific Island cultures, and my experiences taught me the importance of giving back to the land and its people.

By embracing the principles of aloha and mālama ʻāina, travelers can not only enjoy Hawaii's natural splendor but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of its unique culture. As travelers, we have the privilege and responsibility to honor these traditions, ensuring that the spirit of aloha continues to thrive for generations to come.

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