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Hauʻoli Lonoikamakahiki Hou
Traditionally celebrated from October-February, the Makahiki season honors the god Lono-i-ka-makahiki or Lono. Lono is the god of fertility, agriculture, rain, music, and peace. In Hawaiian mythology, he is one of four major gods - Kū, Lono, Kāne, and Kanaloa.
During the Makahiki season, Hawaiians would cease war and work in order to participate in the festivities and make offerings (hoʻokupu) to Lono. The offerings would typically include the best puaʻa (pigs), kalo (taro), ʻuala (sweet potatoes), hulu (feathers), moena (woven mats), and kapa (Hawaiian barkcloth).
In addition to religious ceremonies, Makahiki was a time for feasting, dancing, and playing games and sports.
Let the games begin!
There are over one hundred pā’ani kahiko (traditional games) known, a testimony to the fun-loving and creative nature of native traditions.
Makahiki games included sports of strength, like Hākōkō (Hawaiian wrestling), games of skill ‘Ō’ō Ihe (spear throwing) and water sports like Lele Pahū (plunging feet first into water to make a big splash), Aho Loa (long breath, or underwater breath holding), and He’e nalu (surfing). There were also games for quiet moods like Kōnane (Hawaiian checkers), Hū (kukui nut top spinning), and Hei (cats cradle).
In keeping with Makahiki traditions, WCIT staff regularly engage in out-of-office 'ohana and team building and outdoor activities.