Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016 and continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture and After Dark in the Park programs with the public in March.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016 and continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture and After Dark in the Park programs with the public in March.
All After Dark and Hawaiian cultural programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Programs are co-sponsored by the Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Mark the calendar for these remaining events in March:
Kai Ho‘opi‘i in Concert
Come enjoy an evening of Hawaiian music through the sweet voice of Kai Ho‘opi‘i, who shares the music of his ohana from Kahakuloa, Maui. Ho‘opi‘i is a winner of the Aloha Festivals Hawaiian falsetto singing contest. Part of Hawaii Volcanoes’ ongoing Na Leo Manu (heavenly voices) presentations. Free.
When: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 16
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium
Find Your Park on the Big Screen
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will show sister park movies to raise awareness of the other national parks in Hawaii and the Pacific Islands during its centennial year — which also marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.
The first movie will be “The Soul of Kalaupapa: Voices of Exile,” a beautiful and poignant 52-minute film by Fred E. Woods. Discover what life was like for the patients and residents of Kalaupapa, removed from their families because of the fear and stigma of leprosy (Hansen’s disease).
Today, Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai shares the history and culture of the people and places of Kalaupapa’s past. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
When: 7-8 p.m. Friday, March 18
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium
Recovery Efforts for Endangered Native Birds, Nene and ‘Ua‘u
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to numerous endangered plants and animals. Wildlife biologist Kathleen Misajon will highlight two critically endangered bird species, the iconic nene (Hawaiian goose) and the mysterious ‘ua‘u (Hawaiian petrel). Learn about the park’s current and future monitoring programs, and how these species are faring in the park and throughout Hawaii. Part of Hawaii Volcanoes’ Centennial After Dark in the Park series. Free.
When: 7 p.m. March 22
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium
Hawaiian Games
Come try your skill at fun Hawaiian games that have been played by generations of Hawaiian families. Join park rangers and staff from the Hawaii Pacific Parks Association who will demonstrate various games. Part of Hawaii Volcanoes’ ongoing ‘Ike Hana No‘eau (experience the skillful work) workshops. Free.
When: 10 a.m.-noon March 23
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center lanai
Centennial Hike: Protect Nene and Devastation Trail
Become a park steward and join park staff to malama (care for) a section of Devastation Trail that provides important nene habitat. Together, we will remove knotweed and other invasive plants that threaten nene habitat. Sturdy footwear, water, light rain gear, sun protection and a snack are recommended.
When: 9 a.m. March 26
Where: Meet at Devastation Trail parking lot