Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park March Hawaiian Cultural & After Dark in the Park Programs

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture and After Dark in the Park programs with the community and visitors this month.  These programs are free, but park entrance fees may apply. Mark the calendar for these upcoming events in March:

The Building of a Wildlife Preserve and the Three-Mountain Alliance. The Ka‘ū Preserve is part of the largest and most intact expanse of native forest in the state of Hawai‘i. Made up of four separate parcels of forested land, this Nature Conservancy preserve features mountainous ridgelines with narrow plateaus framed by steep valleys. A closed-canopy koa and ‘ōhi‘a forest shelters a lush understory of native ferns, where rare plants thrive, along with endangered forest birds like ‘apapane, ‘i‘iwi, ‘elepaio, ‘amakihi and ‘ākepa. John R. Replogle of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) will address how the TNC Preserve in Ka‘ū became a preserve and how the Three-Mountain Alliance has played an important role in this endeavor. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park presentations. Free.
When: Tues., Mar. 5 at 7 p.m.
Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium

Lito Arkangel in Concert. Singer/songwriter Lito Arkangel is a popular Hawai‘i Island entertainer, and he shares his original compositions and other Hawaiian favorites in this special concert at the park. Arkangel has performed at many establishments around the island, and collaborates with artists such as Rupert Tripp, Jr. & Ohana, the Ahuna Ohana, Piggy Kaleohano, Damon Williams, and many more. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” presentations. Free.
When: Wed., Mar. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., doors open at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium

Ka‘ū  Ohana Day. Join park rangers and explore the Palm Trail by GPS and compass in the park’s southernmost section of Kahuku. Enjoy a free lunch, and participate in cultural craft demonstrations. Registration is required, call (808) 985-6019.
When: Sat., Mar. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: The park’s Kahuku Unit, mauka side of Highway 11, near mile marker 70.5. Call (808) 985-6019 to register.

Lehua Domingo’s lauhala hats. NPS Photo by Jessica Ferracane

Lei Hulu a me Ulana Pāpale Lauhala (Feather Lei and Lauhala Hat Making). Master lei maker Kilohana Domingo demonstrates the intricate art of feather work, and his highly prized nā lei hulu (feather lei) will be on display. His mother, renowned Hawaiian artist and master weaver Lehua Domingo, will share the unique ‘anoni style of weaving pandanus leaves into an exquisite hat, and other objects of art. Her granddaughter, Kawai Domingo, also an upcoming artist, assists her. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free.
When: Mon., Mar. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai