Hawaii Governor Josh Green, M.D., along with First Lady Jaime Kanani Green and event coordinators, declared today that Hawaii is fully equipped and eager to welcome the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC), the biggest gathering of indigenous Pacific Islanders globally, scheduled to take place on Oahu from June 6-16, 2024.

Governor Josh Green, M.D. expressed his gratitude for the privilege of hosting the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture, emphasizing the significance of this event for Hawai‘i and the U.S. He highlighted the unity and diversity represented by FestPAC and the anticipation of providing a memorable and enriching experience for all participants. First Lady Jaime Kanani Green echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the opportunity for Hawai‘i to showcase its cultural heritage and promote understanding of the Pacific Islands’ diverse traditions. She encouraged locals to participate in the free events and activities, emphasizing the importance of coming together to celebrate and learn from this exceptional cultural experience.

Over 2,200 representatives from 27 Pacific nations will convene for a period of 10 days to engage in cultural exchange, appreciation, and celebration at various locations throughout the island. A total of more than 50 festival events, such as the opening and closing ceremonies, Festival Village, performances of traditional and contemporary music and dance, demonstrations of heritage arts, exhibitions of visual arts, and more, will be accessible to the public free of charge.

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The main FestPAC activities will encompass an inaugural ceremony that will kickstart the festivities with captivating performances, speeches, and a procession of nations. Additionally, there will be an Ecumenical Service aimed at fostering unity among attendees through reflection and prayer. The Festival Village, situated at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, will serve as a hub for artisans to showcase their expertise in traditional heritage art demonstrations, encompassing activities such as kapa making, weaving, jewelry crafting, chanting, and dancing. Lastly, a closing ceremony will provide an opportunity for reflection and celebration. It is important to note that all FestPAC events, except for the wa‘a arrival ceremony, certain bilateral governmental meetings, and discussions among delegations, will be open to the public and free of charge.

Aaron J. Salā, Ph.D., the festival director of the 13th FestPAC, emphasized the significance of FestPAC in honoring and preserving Pacific arts and culture for over 50 years. FestPAC not only showcases Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the collective identity of the Pacific region. By making most events free of charge, FestPAC aims to create an inclusive and inviting environment for both residents and visitors to fully engage and celebrate this important cultural and artistic celebration.

The 27 Pacific Island nations that have confirmed their attendance at the 13th FestPAC include American Samoa, Australia, Cook Islands, Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam, Hawai‘i, Kiribati, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Island, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna, and Taiwan.

FestPAC, which was established in 1972, has played a significant role in preserving and revitalizing Pacific cultures, fostering creativity and innovation, and promoting cultural diplomacy within the Pacific community. Organized in collaboration with the Pacific Community and the Council of Pacific Arts and Culture, FestPAC is held every four years in a different Pacific Island nation. Originally scheduled to be hosted by Hawai‘i in 2020, the event had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.