Announcing the 8th annual Heiva I Kauai Iaorana Tahiti, August 1-2, 2009 at Kapa’a Beach Park on Kaua’i—a weekend festival of great Tahitian dancing and drumming, Polynesian arts and crafts, and delicious local foods.

On Saturday morning, August 1, a traditional welcoming ceremony will open the festivities. Gates open to the public at 10 am and the solo competition begins at 11 am. On Sunday, gates open at 10 am and exhibition dancing begins at 11 am, followed by group competition.

On Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning multi-cultural workshops, including Tahitian dance, choreography, and drumming will be held. Sunday will end with solo, group and drumming award presentations. Admission is $5 per day at the door; children six and under are free. For more information, call 822-9447.

“Tahitian Gardenia” —photo by Tamee Thronas-Kahoonei