51st Queen Liliuokalani Keiki Hula Competition opens at Blaisdell

News admin July 24, 2026 0 Comments

51st Queen Liliuokalani Keiki Hula Competition opens at Blaisdell

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The 51st Annual Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition and Festival opened Thursday at the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena.

Fifteen halau from across Hawaii will showcase young dancers throughout the three-day event. Participants ages 6 to 12 will compete in both kahiko and ʻauana.

Kumu hula and judge Iwalani Kalima said she looks for the “aloha” contestants bring to the stage.

“That is going to be something very exciting for me to see all of the aloha that they put in, their time and effort that they have shared with many, many people,” Kalima said. “I just want them to enjoy what they have learned and to show us how happy they are.”

Kalima said the festival is also about encouraging the next generation, “so I am hoping that they will bring out their best and we can look forward to seeing them,” she said.

She also had simple advice for contestants.

“Just enjoy what they’re doing and love the hula,” Kalima said. “Because with hula, it brings life and perpetuation of our culture.”

Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for keiki ages 5 and under.

The event is now under the stewardship of the Hawaiian Council, continuing a tradition that has nurtured generations of young hula practitioners for more than 50 years.

It includes a Keiki Hula Market with more than 55 vendors curated by Nā Mea Hawaiʻi.

Visit keikihula.org to reserve seating.