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It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon for a Ho'olaule'a ( Hawaiian celebration). Our skies were clear and blue, a perfect contrast to all the bright colors of cut flowers in buckets, stunning tropical flower arrangements, healthy plants and orchids on display.
This was the 20th year celebration of the Ha 'iku Flower Festival at PeaceLoveHaiku Ho'olaule'a 2013..The festival first began as a fund raiser for the Haiku School PTA with the goal to define Ha'iku by sponsoring a floral event. The first flower festival was attended by only one plant grower, some entertainment, few crafters and, of course, food. It has turned into a destination event with over fifty booths of quality arts, crafts, silent auction, book exchange, ono grinds to eat, and lots of healthy plants.
This handsome young man is pounding taro for Poi. Most cultural events now include a booth with someone pounding taro root to share how poi is made.
At the Flower Festival, I found my favorite Ti plant, the Ruby Sister...a glowing red Ti with long sword shaped leaves, at one of the vendor's stall. This richly colored Ti makes such a statement on the grounds of Hale Ho'okipa Inn. I also purchased some very sweet shell earings, love all the beach inspired jewelry locally crafted and for sale at the craft's fairs. From beach glass to puka shells and carved hooks, island jewelry can be posh or rustic, and is always attractive.
The huge and healthy vegie garden at Hai'iku School really surprised and impressed me . Seems that so many of our island schools these days have great gardens that the kids do work in and eat from. Lucky kids that are now being introduced to and involved in healthy living through their school gardens.
Being a warm and sunny day, I stayed long enough to visit the history section of the festival ( one of my favorite areas) and to load up on Ti plants and a few other goodies.
A swim at the ocean seemed like a perfect way to top off a great morning.
Supporting our local farmers, crafters, and island neighbors is one of my passions. It's lots of fun, and we all benefit.
Pitch in for your community, whenever you have a chance.
With Aloha,
Cherie
