HONOLULU (HI Now) - The 2026 Native Hawaiian Convention begins at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center with pre convention programming centered on culture, learning, and community connection. The first day sets the tone for the week by bringing attendees together for hands on opportunities to engage with Native Hawaiian knowledge and practices.
Day one includes registration and a lineup of cultural workshops designed for people who want to participate, not just observe. Throughout the day, attendees can also visit Nā Mea Hawaiʻi, a shopping area featuring collaborations with local Native Hawaiian makers, offering a way to support local creatives and find items tied to ʻike and place.
Mele and hula are part of the day one schedule as well, adding live cultural programming between workshops and gathering spaces. The day wraps with an official afterparty from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the SWELL Pool Bar at ʻAlohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, giving attendees another chance to connect outside the convention center.
For updates and details, visit hawaiiancouncil.org/convention and follow @hawaiiancouncil on Instagram.
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