KONA VILLAGE RESORT A conference honoring the art of lauhala weaving is set for May on the Big Island.

Lauhala weaving

A Hawaiian traditional art conference will be held on the Big Island in May

The 12th Annual Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona Weaving Conference returns to Kona Village Resort on the Big Island from May 16 through 19.

Founded in 1995 by Aunty Elizabeth Maluihi Lee, the Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona Weaving Conference has become a Mecca of sorts for those interested in perpetuating the traditional art of lau hala weaving.

Of all the ancient Hawaiian weaving arts, lau hala is the most practiced today in part because hala (pandanus) trees are easily found. In the 19th century, with the arrival of Westerners, an increase in trade with the outside world brought cotton cloth and containers, leather goods and man-made fibers. Weaving declined, although it continued to be a way of life for some Big Island families who made everything from hats to coffee-picking baskets to trade for food at plantation stores. Today, dozens of Big Island weavers still deliver handmade purses, hats, table and floor mats, eyeglass cases and bracelets to shops frequented by residents and visitors.

Conference and workshop registration is $150 and includes lunch daily for four days, final night luau and membership dues to Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona. Special resort rates will be available at the Kona Village Resort for registered conference guests May 16-20.

For conference and workshop registration, call (808) 328-2369. For Kona Village Resort reservations, call toll-free (800) 367-5290.