LAIE, HAWAII– The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) presents Hawaii’s largest Samoan cultural event and a pre-eminent showcase of Samoa’s traditions, the We Are Samoa Festival. Highlighting this festival is the 24th Annual World Fireknife Championships and High School Samoan Cultural Arts Festival — May 12-14
The PCC’s We Are Samoa Festival is highlighted by two major events celebrating the cultural traditions of the Samoan people:
24TH ANNUAL WORLD FIREKNIFE CHAMPIONSHIPS
The world’s most talented fireknife dancers come together at the PCC for three nights of heated competition. From as young as six years old to the most experienced and celebrated performers, all will compete in their respective divisions seeking to win the coveted title of World Fireknife Champion. Attendees will be treated to a cultural experience unlike any other, and the best of the best will be crowned a World Champion in both Junior and Senior Divisions.
The event will bring together fireknife dancers from all over the world to compete for the prestigious title, including Tuika Faumuina (Pittsburgh, PA), Kane Anzai (Fukushima, Japan), Falaniko Solomona (Hong Kong), Ghislain Ani (Faaa, Tahiti), Matuni Vaiaoga (Orlando, FL), Valentino Luafalealo (Auckland, NZ), Viceson Galeai (Laie, HI) and many more.
HIGH SCHOOL SAMOAN CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL
Hawaii high school students of Samoan ancestry will demonstrate their knowledge of Samoa’s culture by competing in a series of traditional practices including protocol and speech making, basket weaving, coconut husking and fire making, costuming, poise, dance and interpretation.