The extravagant floats decked with fresh flowers. The festive ho'olaule'a featuring food, crafts, music and dance. The hula festivals, the falsetto contests and the colorful pa'u riders. Aloha Festivals rebounds
with grand plans for this fallStar-Bulletin staff
They all will be back in this September's Aloha Festivals.
Some of the festivities of the 56-year-old island tradition were either canceled or rescheduled last year as the nation mourned the tragedy of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Last year was "extremely challenging" and "we had a lot of very disappointed people," Aloha Festivals Executive Director Janet Hyrne said yesterday.
"But everyone is back again this year," ready to stage the celebrations that attract islanders and visitors alike, Hyrne said.
The events are scheduled for Sept. 13-21 on Oahu, and will continue on the neighbor islands, ending Oct. 26 on Maui. "Spirit of the Master," honoring artisans and their masterpieces, is this year's theme, and the festivities are expected to attract more than a million people, Hyrne said.
Volunteers are needed soon, including people who can help build foundations for the floats. Carpenters, woodworkers, mechanics, welders, designers and artists are especially needed, Hyrne said.
But anyone with "a good attitude" who is responsible and able to work at least 10 hours a week is welcome.
To volunteer, call 589-1771 or go to alohafes@hula.net to sign up. A full schedule of events should be available on the Web site by Aug. 1.