Makahiki festival

Definition

The makahiki festival is a traditional Hawaiian celebration that marks a time of peace, rest, and renewal, honoring the god Lono. This annual event usually lasts for four months, from late October to early February, and incorporates various cultural practices such as games, feasting, and ceremonial rituals, fostering community bonding and connection to the land. It is also closely tied to agricultural cycles and is a significant expression of Polynesian vocal traditions and hula.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The makahiki festival involves various activities such as competitions in sports, music, and dance that strengthen community ties.
2. During this festival, warfare was traditionally forbidden to promote peace among different Hawaiian communities.
3. Rituals during the makahiki may include offerings to Lono, with people engaging in chants and songs that express gratitude and reverence.
4. The festival emphasizes the connection between people and the land, celebrating agricultural bounty and the importance of sustainable practices.
5. Makakiki also serves as a time for reflection and planning for the upcoming planting season, aligning with the lunar calendar.

Review Questions

• How does the makahiki festival reflect the values of Hawaiian culture through its activities and rituals?
  • The makahiki festival embodies Hawaiian cultural values by emphasizing community, peace, and gratitude. Activities such as games, feasting, and ceremonies promote social bonding while honoring Lono through rituals like chanting and offerings. This event showcases the importance of harmony with nature and celebrates agricultural cycles, reflecting a deep respect for the land and its resources.
• In what ways does hula play a role in the makahiki festival and what significance does it have for participants?
  • Hula serves as a vital part of the makahiki festival by using dance to tell stories about Hawaiian history, mythology, and cultural values. Participants engage in hula as a form of expression that enhances the festive atmosphere while connecting them to their heritage. The incorporation of music and chant within hula also strengthens communal ties, making it an essential element of this celebration.
• Evaluate the impact of the makahiki festival on contemporary Hawaiian society and how it contributes to cultural preservation.
  • The makahiki festival plays a crucial role in contemporary Hawaiian society by fostering cultural preservation and revitalization. Through its celebration of traditional practices like hula and communal gatherings, it reinforces a sense of identity among Hawaiians. Moreover, as more people participate in or learn about the festival today, it not only keeps these traditions alive but also educates younger generations on their ancestral values and connection to the land.

Related terms

Lono: Lono is the Hawaiian god associated with agriculture, fertility, rainfall, and music, often revered during the makahiki festival.

Hula: Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance that incorporates movement, chant, and music to tell stories and express cultural values.

Aloha Spirit: The Aloha Spirit is a philosophy of love, compassion, and mutual respect in Hawaiian culture, which plays a significant role during celebrations like the makahiki festival.