The community is invited to the ‘Ohi‘a Love Fest, a free celebration of the native Hawaiian tree, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 27 at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo.
The community is invited to the ‘Ohi‘a Love Fest, a free celebration of the native Hawaiian tree, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 27 at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo.
There will be information about rapid ‘ohi‘a death and how to reduce its spread, live music, entertainment, talks, games, prizes, face painting, a photo booth, educational booths and displays, crafts, free admission into ‘Imiloa and food vendors.
The schedule of events includes a hula performance by hula halau Na Wahine a na Kane Punahele ‘O Ka Pu‘uwai, music by the Bioblitz Band, a presentation about ‘ohi‘a traditions of Hawaiian culture, ‘ohi‘a seed banking, ROD science updates and taiko drumming by Hui Okinawa Kubodo Taiko.
“We are so excited to host the first ‘Ohi‘a Love Fest as it is our hope to bring the community together to celebrate ‘ohi‘a trees, their importance in our native ecosystems, our culture and as a collector of fresh water,” said Anya Tagawa, outreach and education specialist at the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.
‘Imiloa will offer $10 off all levels of membership, whether a person is new to ‘Imiloa or renewing a membership.
‘Ohi‘a Love Fest is hosted and sponsored by the DLNR, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the University of Hawaii, Hawaii County Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara and the Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program, in collaboration with the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center.
This will be a zero-waste event, so don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle. There will be free refill stations with ice-cold water.
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Online
‘Ohi‘a Love Fest: imiloahawaii.org.
Rapid ‘ohi’a death: rapidohiadeath.org.