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 presented its 25th annual Native Hawaiian Convention from July 20-22 at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center in Honolulu, where more than 2,500 registrants including 300 keiki enjoyed cultural workshops, panel discussions, breakout sessions and more.

The convention, which attracted hundreds of attendees from the Mainland to O

 aimed to focus on community advancement and cultural pride, according to Hawaiian Council’s CEO Kūhio Lewis.

It also marked 133 years since the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom under Queen Lili

uokalani. He noted that for the first time, 133 State of Hawai’i flags were posted around the perimeter of the Blaisdell in remembrance of that day in history.

“Symbolically, it represented our kūpuna that came before us,” he told Aloha State Daily.

Lewis added that three principles — past, present and future — guided its events: Ho

“What I wanted when we conceptualized the convention is [for] Hawaiians to feel a sense of pride,” Lewis said. “I wanted them to feel a sense of elevation. Oftentimes, people perceive us as having limited capacity or in grass shacks, but we’re so much more than that and bring so much more to the table.

“It was really to create a sense of place that everybody felt comfortable; it felt elevated. It felt very Hawaiian, very Hawai

convention. It was the future of where we’re going as a people.”

Walking through the front entrance, attendees were greeted with screens transporting them across the Islands (Note: 

One side of the room was conducting live breakout sessions complete with headsets, while the other led to a shopping experience by 

, which is owned by Hawaiian Council and currently operates the gift shop at 

 locally made products, vintage alohawear and mu

 furniture, or play games on lau hala mats surrounded by tropical plants, hanging ipu, a canoe display, and more.

Sponsor booths and resources were also available on the first and second floors including Lilly Clinical Trials, 

Alzheimer’s Association Hawaiʻi Chapter

, The Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture (

“When you have a convention and the convening of out community, you want to make sure the resources that are in place are available and have a space (for attendees),” Lewis said.

According to him, there were approximately 200 staff and volunteers who helped make this yearʻs convention possible.

New this year was the use of headphones, which Hawaiian Council rented from a Mainland company, to conduct simultaneous talk stories in the open space at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

“The headsets were our way of trying to figure out how to utilize the space, so we looked up technology that existed and brought them in from the Mainland,” Lewis told ASD. “You could change the channel and listen to different breakouts or even a station dedicated to Hawaiian music. All the way around, we utilized technology.”

“Everything went really smoothly, even with the headsets, they all loved it. I think it was engaging,” he continued. “There were no major incidents at all.”

Upon reflection, Lewis shared a few of his highlights from the convention like the last-day panel of the four county mayors moderated by Gov. Josh Green; breakout sessions discussing Hawaiian trusts; 

ʻāina and Artificial Intelligence; energy and economic sovereignty; and Indigenous gaming models, among others.

But something Lewis is most proud of is providing space for keiki to learn and grow, while selling their locally made products and showcasing their talent through dance at the 

Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition

, which Hawaiian Council hosted from July 23-25 at the Blaisdell.

“The last day of convention got converted into this massive marketplace where there were about 90 vendors, so all those chairs where the headsets were got put away and kids were selling out of their products,” Lewis said, adding that there were “a lot of innovation and cultural” items for sale such as jewelry, food and drink 

— and even a booth for pets and animals.

“The next generation is what our focus needs to be on. Living in the moment only gets you so far but by investing in the next generation — whether they

’re entrepreneurs, or practitioners, CEOs, leaders 

’re all aspiring to go somewhere. We have a responsibility to help support them. All of us were supported at some point along our journey, so it was important to me that we use the convention help that upcoming generation.”

The spirit of aloha, he says, was displayed with a special exhibit called 

the “Executive Closet,” where local CEOs donated their wardrobe for kids entering the workforce.

“We collected over 600 shirts and dresses from Sig Zane, Manaola, Reyn Spooner, etc., and we sold them for $20 to the next generation of kids. They walked away with designer clothes for $20, and so, it was cool because the next day, I would somebody running around with my (old) shirt. Everybody put in to help the next generation.”

He said that the keiki hula competition “is more than hula. It’s leadership development.”

“Those kids are going to be leaders; they’re learning confidence, skills, discipline. They’re learning how to become the next generation of Hawaiian leaders,” he noted, adding that he was inspired by their discipline and focus.

Looking ahead, Hawaiian Council plans to debrief from the eventful week and continue to solicit feedback via its attendee surveys. It will look to continue celebrating its 25th year with a “birthday party for the organization later this month,” per Lewis.

He teased that Maui may be the next host site for the Native Hawaiian Convention in 2027, though, planning for next year’s convention and hula festival likely won’t start until next month. The convention was last held in Maui in 2023, 

according to the organization’s 2023-2024 annual report

Hawaiian Council’s mission is “to enhance the cultural, economic, political and community development of Native Hawaiians.” The nonprofit organization also operates a loan fund, delivers capacity building services and fosters leadership development, among other programming. 

For more information about Hawaiian Council, 

. Interested in more local opportunities for keiki? Check out 

Native Hawaiian Conference 2026

<title>‘Past, present and future’: Hawaiian Council’s Native Hawaiian Convention and keiki hula…</title>

Aloha State Daily recently attended the Native Hawaiian Convention hosted by Hawaiian Council on Oʻahu. The organization’s CEO Kūhio Lewis shares highlights from the events, which this year included new technology and opportunities for keiki to gain confidence by showcasing dance and selling their locally made products.

‘Past, present and future’: Hawaiian Council’s Native Hawaiian Convention and keiki hula competition focused on next generation of ʻŌiwi leaders

Katie Helland Headshot

Katie Helland

Aloha State Daily rounded up a list of 26 New Year’s Eve events on Oʻahu so you can ring in 2026 in style. From live music presented by Hawaiʻi’s Finest at Wai Kai in ʻEwa Beach to three rooms of parties at Kapono’s at The Lounge in Hawaiʻi Kai, there are options to dance, sing, eat and drink as the new year — and you — slides into focus. ASD rounded up activities by neighborhood:

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Four Seasons Resort, Oʻahu at Ko Olina. 

Mina’s Fish House, Manalo Lounge and Noe are offering dining experiences for New Year’s Eve. 

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Wai Kai x Hawaiʻi’s Finest (ʻEwa Beach). 

The party is open to all ages and includes live music and fireworks at midnight, as well as opportunities to sign up for night surfing. Hawaiʻi’s Finest will present entertainment on the surfside lawn, which will have free seating open to the public and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets for a VIP experience at The Lookout are also available for $100 per person. Check the website for the list of items not allowed at Wai Kai. 

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Start the party early at the Town Center of Mililani with the Noon Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop. The event features headliner 

, as well as haka and Tahitian dance performances, lion dances, and taiko drumming. Performances start at 10 a.m. and run until the pineapple drop at noon. Free. 

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Party with three DJs and two dance floors with a drag show that starts at 9 p.m. The event includes performances by Omnia Nova, Princess, Kelly Price, Apple Aday and Sardonyx Del Rey. Bottle service is available. Tables can also be reserved at 

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Live music, cocktails and tasty late night bites are part of this New Year’s Eve celebration. Riya Davis, a vocalist and saxophonist, will perform from 10:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Tickets are $125 and include live music cover charge, snacks, party favors and a drink. 

“Dress to dazzle” and celebrate with the Gatsby New Year’s Eve Gala

. Tickets include live music and DJ sets and a champagne toast. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. There is also a Whiskey VIP Room experience available for up to 12 people. Tickets start at $71.21. 

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Minutes from Waikīkī, The District is presenting Silver and Stars NYE 2026. The dress code is “New Year’s Eve festive.” There will be DJs, a 36-foot LED video wall, lasers and CO2 cryo cannons. Tickets start at $40 for general admission, which includes drink tickets, and $70 for VIP admission, which includes drink tickets, champagne welcome drinks, snacks, and party favors, plus an exclusive champagne room with a dedicated DJ. The event starts at 8 p.m. and runs until 4 a.m. 

Bad Decisions Ball features special guest DJ Hector Fonseca. There will be a champagne toast at midnight. The guest list is free until 10:30 p.m. The event runs from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m. 

Celebrate Bye Bye 25 at Swell Restaurant and Pool Bar with beats by DJ Compose and DJ Mau and a ball drop illuminated on the Beachside Tower. Individual entry, which includes a signature welcome cocktail and a champagne toast at midnight is $40, if purchased in advance, and $50 at the door. A private luxury cabana for eight people, which includes bottle service with Grey Goose Vodka and Devant Brut Champagne along with charcuterie boards and New Years Eve swag and complimentary self-parking for one vehicle, is $750. 

The Honolulu New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl 2026, hosted by the national group 

, offers a digital map to spots across town, a celebratory champagne toast, beats from live DJs, drink specials and free entry to participating bars. Check-in runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and there will be an exclusive after-party event. Tickets are $30.65, if purchased in advance, with group discounts for parties of four or more. 

 This event, called “Fiesta into 2026” offers margaritas, tacos, fireworks and a rooftop celebration. Early dinner service, a NYE happy hour and VIP tables and bottle service are available. The live DJ starts at 7 p.m. Presale tickets at $40. Fast passes are $90. 

Cruise for fireworks (ocean views of Waikīkī). 

Star of Honolulu, a sunset dinner cruise, serves up views of Waikīkī timed to include the fireworks show. There will also be light pūpūs, party favors and a midnight toast. 

 Some other groups offering New Year’s Eve experiences on the water include the 

 catamarans (tours depart from Kewalo Basin or Waikīkī) and 

Halekūlani on the Beach at Waikīkī (Waikīkī).

 Say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026 with a chic afternoon at The Veranda, a rosé and caviar lounge. Book the 

 ($155 per ticket). There will also be a 

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at Orchids/La Mer

Make reservations for New Year’s Eve meals at Grand Lānai restaurants at International Market Place, including Crackin’ Kitchen, Eating House 1949, Herringbone, Moani Waikīkī Island Bistro & Bar, Shorefyre, Skybox Taphouse and Stripsteak Waikīkī. 

Shorefyre's Fire by Night Gatsby Party (International Market Place, Waikīkī). 

Dance the night away with DJ Al Grande, DJ Caldee and DJ Deuxces in this Gatsby-themed event which starts at 9 p.m., after regular dinner service. Festive 1920s attire recommended but not required. VIP service is available. 

Skybox Taphouse (International Market Place, Waikīkī). 

Sing in the New Year at this spot, which is hosting a karaoke party. Pizza and cocktails are available. 

Enjoy a rooftop experience at the “High Resolution – New Year, New Heights” party with skyline views, DJs and a coundtown until midnight at Sky Waikīkī. The music will be provided by DJ Compose and DJ Jem. Dress to impress. Attendees must be at least 21 years old. Tickets start at $60. 

NYE Paradise Bloom is a rooftop party, presented by House of Art Entertainment, with immersive decor, live performances and a complimentary glass of welcome champagne, plus a midnight toast. The event will include a live jazz band, acrobatic performances, DJs, live fire shows, and more. 

The Laylow Waikīkī, Autograph Collection (Waikīkī). 

DJ J.Esco will provide the music for Drip: A New Year’s Eve Celebration. Dress code is “dressed to impress.” General admission tickets, which includes party favors, appetizers from 10 p.m. to midnight and a champange toast at midnight are $85 pre-sale or $105 at the door. VIP tables, which include bottle service, reserved areas and a charcuterie board, start at $800. 

The Royal Hawaiian Resort, Waikīkī (Waikīkī). 

Celebrate fresh starts with a five-course dinner at Azure at The Royal Hawaiian Resort, Waikīkī.

Seatings begin at 6 p.m. or 8:15 p.m. ($275+. Wine pairings are $75+). There is also a New Year’s Eve lūʻau dinner show, which includes a three-course meal ($397+ for adults with tiered pricing for keiki). The resort will also host “Dreaming in Pink” with live DJ entertainment, handcrafted cocktails, oceanfront fireworks and views of Diamond Head on the lawn and in the nearby Monarch Room ($100 for adults and $50 for keiki). 

Enjoy a DJ and dancing, party favors, a midnight toast and views of the stars and fireworks from this spot with ocean views. Attendees must be at least 21 years old. Buy tickets for just the party, a four-course NYE dinner with entrance to the party, or a VIP package. 

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach (Waikīkī). 

Glitter & Good Cheer is the focus of this party at Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach. The event will also be a celebration of the resort’s 125th birthday. The party will host three different NYE experiences: Cabana Suite, VIP Terrace, and Diamond & Pearls Party. The Cabana Suite includes an oceanfront celebration with access to a decorated pool deck from 8:30 p.m. to midnight. It includes premium pūpū platters, two bottles of Devant Brut Champagne (NV and Rosé), DJ entertainment and complimentary parking for up to six guests. The VIP Terrace includes a private lounge with bottle service tables and premium pūpū platters, plus two bottles (Taittinger Brut Champagne and Pau Vodka), DJ entertainment, and complimentary parking for up to six guests. The Diamonds & Pearls Party on the Diamond Lawn includes a gourmet dinner buffet, a no-host bar, a photo booth, tarot card reading, adult face painting and a champagne toast at midnight. 

Hawaiian Council is presenting this event featuring comedian Pashyn Santos, along with hula and mele from Nā Lei Aloha at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. The evening starts at 9:30 p.m. with a DJ set. Performances, including stand-up comedy from Santos, fire knife dancing, mele and hula. There will be fireworks and a champagne toast. Attendees must be at least 21 years old. 

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This dance school is celebrating the new year Vegas style! There will be tango, casino games, champagne and “nonstop sparkle,” according to event organizers. Activities start with a dance class, Tango 101 for Beginners, at 8:30 p.m. and then from 9:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. there is a tango dance party with traditional and new music. There will also be a casino games room with roulette, craps, poker and blackjack. Tickets are $60, if purchased early, and $75 at the door. 

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The Kāhala Hotel & Resort (Kāhala). The Dom Pérignon New Years Eve Celebration includes fire knife dancing and a drone show. Tickets include access to premium poolside views of activities, plus live music and a Dom Pérignon champagne toast. The event runs from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Dress code is resort casual. Guests must be at least 21 years old. Tickets are $105.63. 

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Kapono’s at The Lounge: New Year’s Eve on the Marina (Hawaiʻi Kai). 

, who has won more than 20 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, recently partnered with the Henry Kapono Foundation and The Lounge at Island Sound Studios on 

, which will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, starting Jan. 9. Kapono’s at the Lounge includes three performance spaces —The Lounge, The Velvet Monkey and Studio B — and will host debut performances featuring Kapono, Tavana and Ambrose

 in each of the spaces on New Year’s Eve. VIP passes are available for partygoers who wish to move between the spaces from 10:30 p.m. until midnight.

Atlantis Cruises

<title>26 places to party for 2026: New Year’s Eve on O’ahu</title>

Hauʻoli Makahiki Hou! Happy New Year! Looking to ring in 2026 on Oʻahu? Here are 26 events, listed by neighborhood, happening between ʻEwa Beach and Hawaiʻi Kai.

26 places to party for 2026: New Year’s Eve on O’ahu

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ASD Staff

The Maui Humane Society says, "If you have a gentle heart, a little extra patience, and a lot of love to give, she promises to return it all with her silly, sweet self."

Brooke

Adopt-a-Pet Maui June 19, 2025: Brooke loves a good belly rub

Say "howzit" to Samus at the Hawaiian Humane Society Mōʻiliʻili Campus.

6 18 2025 Samus

Adopt-a-Pet Oʻahu June 19, 2025: Samus wants to join your family

This kitty loves to lounge and play with toys and his "chosen people," which you, too, could be!

6 12 2025 Reggie

Adopt-a-Pet June 12, 2025: Reggie, the 'comical goofball'

According to the Maui Humane Society, "He's a 4-year-old boy with a big heart and an even bigger love for toys, treats, and cuddles."

Kahe

Adopt-a-Pet Maui June 5, 2025: Kahe just wants to be part of a family where he can give all his love

"Whether he's contentedly munching fresh lettuce or curled up in his favorite cozy spot, Chippy radiates pure joy," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

6 5 2025 Chippy

Adopt-a-Pet O‘ahu June 5, 2025: Chippy the rabbit needs a home

"This handsome boy is the epitome of resilience," said the Hawaiian Humane Society.

5 29 2025 Kilameha

Adopt-a-Pet O‘ahu May 29, 2025: Kilameha, a 3-year-old American Pitbull Terrier mix

Originally found in Hāna, Princess Tip Taps has been waiting more than two years for a forever home.

Princess tip taps

Adopt-a-Pet Maui May 29, 2025: Princess Tip Taps has her very own dance

Cream Puff is hearing impaired but has a big heart, say Maui Humane Society.

Cream Puff

Adopt-a-Pet May 23, 2025: Maui's Cream Puff seeks home

"With his bright smile ad big heart, Batman is sure to show you the true meaning of true companionship," said the Hawaiian Humane Society. "Could your home be his new Batcave?"

5 16 2025 Batman

Adopt-a-Pet May 20, 2025: I'm Batman, your trusted companion

According to the Hawaiian Humane Society, "She is a dog with a heart as big as her personality, always ready to make you laugh."

5 15 2025 Noelani

Adopt-a-Pet May 19, 2025: Noelani makes even the gloomiest days brighter

"With soulful brown eyes, adorable speckled ears and a playful energy, Belle is every bit as beautiful as her name implies," the Hawaiian Humane Society said.

5 14 2025 Belle

Adopt-a-Pet May 16, 2025: 'I want adventure in the great wide somewhere!' — Belle

She's "a 5-year-old sweetheart who’s been patiently waiting for [her] forever ‘ohana for over a year now," the Maui-based nonprofit said.

Celine

Adopt-a-Pet May 15, 2025: Celine from Maui Humane Society has all you need

"Her playful energy and affectionate nature make her the perfect match for active individuals or families looking for a fun-loving companion," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

5 13 2025 Nyla

Adopt-a-Pet May 14: Nyla, a goofy gal who loves a good treat

The Hawaiian Humane Society said, "Snuggles is a recipient of the Reid Krucky Memorial Fund, which means his adoption fee is waived and he will be going home with a special adoption package filled with goodies to help him settle in with his new ʻohana."

5 12 2025 Snuggles

Adopt-a-Pet May 13, 2025: Meet Snuggles, an affectionate pooch that loves to play fetch

This "tri-pawd" pooch is a joy on leash walks and can't wait to find a peaceful home where she can receive the love and attention she deserves, the Hawaiian Humane Society said.

Willow 5 9 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 12, 2025: Graceful Willow wants to flourish

"This sweet girl is just waiting for the right person to 'un-leash' her heart," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Toni 5 8 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May, 9, 2025: Meet Toni, a cute couch potato who loves a good adventure

This 2-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is the perfect companion, according to Hawaiian Humane Society.

Lola 5 7 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 8, 2025: Lola looks for her forever home

Princess of Genovia is Maui Humane Society's Pet of the Week. Learn more about this playful pup with a royal personality.

Princess Of Genovia

Adopt-a-Pet May 7, 2025: Introducing her majesty, Princess of Genovia

"Ember will always greet you with a happy smile and a wagging tail – she only asks for love, treats and plenty of belly rubs in return," says Hawaiian Humane Society.

Ember 5 6 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 6, 2025: Let Ember warm your heart

"This handsome boy’s smile is brighter than the sun," says Hawaiian Humane Society.

El Pollo 5 5 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 5, 2025: Say hello to El Pollo, 'the life of the party'

This 4-year-old Terrier mix is eager to keep learning and add to his repertoire.

Ralphie 5 2 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 2, 2025: Ralphie knows tricks like 'sit'

Miracle is a 42-pound, 5-year-old Hound mix, who is sweet and affectionate with everyone she encounters.

Miracle 5 1 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 1, 2025: Miracle is resilient and curious

Kau'i Boy is "a 4-year-old pup with a big heart and an even bigger love for adventure," MHS said.

Kaui boy 1

Adopt-a-Pet April 30, 2025: Kau'i Boy, the explorer, from Maui Humane Society

According to Hawaiian Humane Society, this pup will keep you entertained with his hilarious zoomies to show you just how happy he is — tail-wagging and all.

Engky 4 30 2025

Adopt-a-Pet April 30, 2025: Engky has an 'endless zest for life'

<title>Adopt a Pet</title>

Kevin Clegg, who first adopted a pet rat from the nonprofit 13 years ago, now volunteers at the organization’s Mōʻiliʻili campus weekly. He shares what initially prompted him to give back to the community, what he likes most about working in adoptions and why if you love animals, it’s a great cause to join.