Event: United States

Ka Molokai Makahiki Festival

When:	26 Jan 2008 (annual)
Where:	Moloka'I
Costs:	Free
Opening Hours:	7.30am-4.30pm

Held after the harvest, the Makahiki celebration is a Hawaiian tradition. Legend has it that Captain Cook owes his reception in this part of the world to his lucky arrival during Makahiki season. The island of Moloka'I celebrates with hula, Hawaiian arts and crafts, games and food.

The harsh kapu, or laws ruling the tribe, are cast aside in favour of sporting competitions and thanksgiving. Usual deities are replaced by the effigy of Lomo, represented by a staff which bears an uncanny resemblance to the sails of a ship - hence Cook's warm reception, since he was mistaken for a visiting god.

Festivities during the day include ancient Hawaiian games like huki huki (tug-of-war), Ulumaika (lawn bowling) and Uma (arm wrestling), to name just a few.