HONOLULU (HI Now) - The 2026 Native Hawaiian Convention returns July 20 to 22 at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, creating three full days dedicated to strengthening the lāhui through culture, conversation, and community connection. With 133 hae aloha standing around the center, this gathering is built for people who want to show up, learn, and leave feeling grounded in the history and aloha of Hawai‘i.
Workshops and breakout sessions begin Monday morning and lean into topics that impact everyday life - from economic sovereignty and land trusts to water safety for our keiki and a thoughtful look at cultural traditions. Tuesday morning, the Opening Ceremony in the Grand Ballroom brings the room together with a procession, live musicians, and Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī, offering a moment that honors the pae ʻāina while setting the tone for the days ahead.
Local music and ʻike take center stage throughout the convention, including a chance to learn a mele written for this moment. On Monday, July 20, Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu will teach Poina ʻole Kuʻu ʻĀina Kau I Ka Hano, inviting voices from near and far to join in. Whether you are reconnecting or learning for the first time. Between sessions, the Mea a‘i Marketplace food court keeps the energy up with local vendors and food trucks with 50 percent locally sourced ingredients that support Hawaiʻi farmers and food businesses.
To register and plan your visit, head to hawaiiancouncil.org/convention and follow @hawaiiancouncil on Instagram for updates.
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