Hawaiian cultural workshops slated

Lahaina Restoration Foundation Hawaiian Cultural Programs Director Kalapana Kollars (left) leads a workshop on ulu (breadfruit). Learn about the history of ulu and its many uses at a free workshop at Apuakehau in Lahaina on May 21. PHOTO BY LAHAINA RESTORATION FOUNDATION.
LAHAINA — Lahaina Restoration Foundation’s popular Hawaiian cultural workshops will begin on Saturday, April 23, from 10 a.m. to noon. The Saturday workshops will be held at Apuakehau, the cultural park located next to Lahaina Public Library.
The workshops, taught by Kalapana Kollars, are free, but a credit card is necessary to hold the reservation. A $20 fee will be charged if the participant fails to attend a workshop or fails to notify Lahaina Restoration Foundation of a withdrawal at least two days prior to start of the workshop.
Workshops are limited to ten participants and are open to anyone ten years of age and older. Participants 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. All materials and supplies are provided.
To allow more people to participate, registration is limited to a maximum of three workshops per person.
The workshops are listed below. Register online at www.lahainarestoration.org/workshops.
April 23, Hands-on Cordage Making — During this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to make strong and durable cordage from hau (hibiscus). Examples of cordage from other Native Hawaiian plants will be demonstrated.
May 7, Demonstration and Sampling of Niu (coconut) — Watch a demonstration of coconut husking and sample fresh coconut water and fresh coconut. Learn about the importance of niu (coconut) in all aspects of Hawaiian life. View a display of coconut products, such as cordage and baskets.
May 21, Ulu (breadfruit tree) — Learn the history of ulu (breadfruit) in Hawaii. Learn about the variety of products that can be made from the tree in addition to its use as a food source. Sample a variety of tasty ulu food products.
June 4, Hawaiian Music Appreciation — Participants will listen to Hawaiian musical compositions from different eras of time (ancient chant to 1800s to today). The instructor will demonstrate the musical compositions using a variety of instruments.
June 25, Kalo — Learn the history and importance of kalo (taro). Taste poi, kulolo and other food items made from kalo (taro). Harvest a “keiki” kalo plant, repot and take home to start your own kalo bed.
July 2, Botanical Tour of Lahaina — Join Kalapana on a botanical tour of downtown Lahaina as he shows the great variety of plants from many different cultures growing nearby. Learn about the plants’ history, uses and other information.
July 16, Coconut Basket Weaving — Using a green coconut leaf, learn how to make a beautiful and functional basket in two hours. The versatile coconut tree was — and still is — utilized for a variety of everyday needs.
Aug. 6, Konane — Learn the ancient Hawaiian strategy board game of Konane. Played on a board or stone, similar to checkers, the object of the game is to block the opponent from further moves.