Tours of the voyaging canoe Mo‘okiha O Pi‘ilani, which was built in Lahaina, will be offered by Hui O Wa‘a Kaulua, Maui’s voyaging canoe society, during Celebration of the Arts. PHOTO BY THE RITZ-CARLTON MAUI, KAPALUA.

KAPALUA — The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua will host the 31st annual Celebration of the Arts at the resort on April 7-8, 2023.

Celebration of the Arts celebrates authentic Hawaiian culture and traditions, with more than 60 of the state’s top artisans, educators, cultural practitioners, speakers and entertainers participating.

This year’s theme “He aha ko’u kuleana… what is my responsibility?” focuses on the role of Hawaiians as they make individual decisions to affect the future.

“Hawaii is in a time of change and awareness,” said Clifford Nae’ole, Hawaiian cultural advisor at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, who has served as the event chair for the past 31 years.

“As Hawaiians look at how to preserve and protect the land, ocean, culture and people of Hawaii, it all starts with the ‘I,’ the ‘me,’ and what that responsibility carries. This will be an incredible weekend to share stories, learn from others and enjoy each other’s company.”

Event highlights will include stories of hula lineage from respected kumu hula Kamaka Kukona, Nāpua Greig and Kathy Ralar; a medicinal plant tour with Hawaiian wellness practitioner kahu Lyons Naone; Polynesian wayfinding with Kala Babayan Tanaka; a kalo tasting with taro farmers; an exploration of what it’s like to be African-American in Hawaii; musical performances by Brother Noland and Waipuna; and more.

Hands-on arts, displays and crafts will be offered throughout the weekend.

On Saturday evening, the acclaimed Celebration of Island Tastes returns, offering guests the opportunity to savor the flavors of Hawaii.

The Carmen Hulu Lindsey Leo Ha’iha’i Falsetto Contest, Hawaii’s first female falsetto contest, will return and feature top amateur vocalists from throughout the state.

For those seeking active experiences, guided hikes and native planting tours will be offered at Pu’u Kukui Watershed, Hawaii’s largest private nature preserve and home to rare and endangered flora and fauna.

Admission to the 31st annual Celebration of the Arts is complimentary and open to the public.

Food and beverage is available for purchase throughout the two-day event.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is offering a special kama’āina rate for Celebration of the Arts; call (808) 669-6200 for details.

Tickets are available for the Celebration of Island Tastes and Carmen Hulu Lindsey Leo Ha’iha’i Falsetto Contest by calling the resort concierge at (808) 665-7089 or e-mailing concierge@rckapalua.com.

To learn more about Celebration of the Arts and see the full event schedule, visit www.celebrationofthearts.org.

In related news, Grammy and Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner John Cruz will perform in the Ritz-Carlton’s Alaloa Lounge on Friday, March 24, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Live music is offered seven nights a week at no cover charge. Valet parking is complimentary.