Moku Umeume and Kapuaikaula Makahiki
“A Hawaiian Thanksgiving”

Traditional History of the Makahiki

The Makahiki is an ancient, annual festival that was dedicated to Lono, the deified guardian of griculture, rain, health and peace. For over two-thousand years, the significance of Lono and his ontributions to the beliefs and practices of the early Hawaiian people, influenced the celebration of events held during the Makahiki Festival throughout the Hawaiian Islands. According to the ancient lunar calendar of Hawai`i, the beginning of the Hawaiian new year began on the first night of the rising of the star constellation Makali`I (Pleiades). The four months following the rise of the Makali`i(from October to the end of January), was set aside as a time for Lono to give thanksgiving for the bounty of the land and sea.

Since Lono was the embodiment of all the characteristics of peace and welfare, all warfare was strictly forbidden during the time of the Makahiki. Since Lono represented the spiritual life-force that came out of all agricultural efforts, much feasting of every kind was done during the four months of the akahiki. This focus on health and welfare made games of skill that tested a healthy body and mind a focal point of the Makahiki games.