When we say hula dancing, what thoughts come to mind? Perhaps you think of the hula dancing scene in Lilo and Stitch. Or maybe the extent of your hula dance knowledge is from hula hoop competitions in grade school. Hawaiian hula dance is more than just a hobby; Hula dancing is a way of life. When staying at our Honolulu resort, explore local Hula dance performances, and even attempt some Hula dance lessons “near me.” But first, read through our Hawaiian Hula Dance guide to learn helpful tips and tricks.
History of Hawaiian Hula Dance
Before the existence of written language, Hula dancing, hula songs, and their associated chants played a significant role in keeping history, genealogy, mythology, and culture alive. Every hand gesture, foot placement, and hip sway would tell a story. These Hula stories helped native Hawaiians feel connected to their land and gods. After the western missionaries arrived, Hula dancing and Hawaiian language were no longer used for social enjoyment and protocol. In fact, Hula dancing was even outlawed. It wasn’t until King David Kalakaua took the throne in 1874 that Hawaii’s cultural traditions were restored. Hula dance performances flourished, and by the early 1900s, the hula dance became more modernized.
Hula Dance Performances
You can see Hula dance performances at festivals, events, competitions, hotels, and resorts all over Honolulu. You can attend popular events such as King Kamehameha Hula Competition in June, Prince Lot Hula Festival in July, and the World Invitational Hula Festival in November. One of the best Hula dance performances, The Kuhio Beach Hula Show, is hosted by Hawaii’s finest hula school. There are hula dance performances at the Kuhio Beach Hula mound on Kalakaua Avenue every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (weather permitting.) During winter months, performances occur from 6 pm to 7 pm. This event is free to the public! Luaus are also great places to watch hula dancing and learn about Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. Some of the best luau spots on Oahu are the Alii Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Paradise Cove Luau in the Ko Olina area.
Hula Dance Classes “Near Me”
Now that you’ve learned the basics of all things Hula dancing, are you ready to search for Hula dance lessons “near me?” We recommend taking hula dance classes onsite, in the Ilikai Tower, Hula Hula Entertainment, or Superhero Hula.
Onsite Hula Lessons
Every Friday from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Marina Hawaii Vacations offers free hula dance lessons. The lessons take place at the Ilikai Tower and face the “Simply Wood Studio.” You’ll also learn the basics of the Hawaiian language! For more information, visit the Simply Wood Studio.
Hula Hula Entertainment
This fun, family-oriented facility has offered private hula lessons for over 18 years. The staff also provides hula shows, live music, lei making lessons, and lei greetings for special occasions. When visiting Hula Hula Entertainment, you’re bound to have a great time.
Marina Hawaii Vacations
Hawaiian Hula dance is deeply rooted in our culture. It’s become an international symbol of Hawaiian culture, and luckily, you can experience the tradition on your trip to Honolulu. Marina Hawaii Vacations is just a quick drive away from many of the above hula dance performances and classes; so, you won’t have to worry about traveling far for these lively experiences. If you plan to stay at our Ilikai Tower property, free hula classes are provided each Friday, 4 pm to 5 pm, in the lobby fronting the “Simply Woods Studio” shop. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Honolulu vacation today by visiting our website, or giving us a call at 808-946-0716.