As noted previously the Kona region is famous for their coffee. Each November they have a festival to celebrate this, as well as the local culture.
Our emcee was a hoot, sort of a Hawaiian Cheech Marin.
In addition to the coffee there were other activities occurring, including a lei making contest. The judges were very thorough, checking for stitching and display.
All were beautiful and very different from the stereotype that you see in the media of the ring of flowers.
There were numerous coffee growers offering samples, as well as educational displays.
The highlight was the entertainment though. We saw a number of dance performances.
The region has a number of immigrants from Japan and the Philippines, which is where these ladies came from.
This group had a very lively audience participation dance.
Many of the dances were similar, yet unique in their own way.
All ages participated.
The final dance was a traditional hula.
Afterwards they posed for a group photo. Hang loose dude (the hand gesture)!
Once the dances were complete a Hawaiian guitar band took the stage. They were very talented.
We even met the queens.
But it was time to catch our home for the next 7 days, a small boat that will take us to new adventures. But first another great sunset.
RDZ Photography 