2,000-plus expected to gather for 2026 Native Hawaiian Convention on Oʻahu

The result is a peaceful, joyful demonstration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today (July 18) on Kamehameha Avenue along Hilo Bayfront, across the road from the soccer fields; also honors life and legacy of civil rights activist and lawmaker John Lewis.

Both festivals celebrate different cultures from the around the island, including Hawaiian, agricultural and Japanese; promise unique, family-friendly fun for the entire family.

The preschool will be located behind the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, increasing access to early childhood care and Hawaiian language education in Hilo.

The Aug. 10 event is the first public engagement event in the planning process; master plan will include long-term vision to guide revitalization of properties along Banyan Drive and around the peninsula.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is downlisting the aeʻo (Hawaiian stilt) from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The aeʻo was originally listed as endangered in 1970 due to destruction and alteration of habitat, hunting, introduced predatory animals and nonnative birds, and diseases.   

Married Maui boat captains Chrissy Lovitt and Emma Nelson, who used their vessel to pull fire survivors from the water during the Aug. 8, 2023, Lahaina wildfire, are being featured as contestants on NBC's game show "The Wall," where they will share their story with a national audience while competing for a cash prize of up to $12 million.

A full week of Native Hawaiian culture, conversation, music and community begins today at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center with the 25th annual Native Hawaiian Convention, July 20–22, followed immediately by the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition & Festival, July 23–25.

Two programs are teaching new farmers how to grow and sell their products at a time when local agriculture is sorely needed.