The new Waikiki Beach Walk is loaded with exciting retail shops, restaurants and plenty of Hawaiian aloha
Combining a free seminar at 1 pm and an impressive group of today’s great Hawaiian steel guitarists performing their signature island sounds, activities are hosted by Harry B. Soria of Territorial Airwaves and Hawaii State Senator Brickwood Galuteria. Individuals performers include Alan Akaka, Casey Olsen, Greg Sardinha, and Jeff Au Hoy. Groups include Pookela and The Islanders.
Pookela, one of several groups performing at the Waikiki Beach Walk Steel Guitar Festival
“There is nothing that brings Hawaii to mind as quickly as the sound of a steel guitar,” says Alan Akaka, renowned Hawaiian steel guitarist, music teacher, and director of Ke Kula Mele Hawaii. “ The ‘nahenahe’ sounds of the steel guitar are unique and truly distinctive. I hope both visitors and residents will come to Waikiki Beach Walk on July 4th to enjoy the first annual Hawaiian Steel Guitar Music Festival.”
Alan Akaka, renowned Hawaiian steel guitarist, music teacher, and director of Ke Kula Mele Hawaii
The 1 pm free seminar includes a talk by Alan Akaka, who will "talk story" about the “ History of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar,” and Dr. Neil Scott, who will share tips on “ How to Build a Steel Guitar.” The seminar will be held on the lawn at Waikiki Beach Walk.
Greg Sardinha, steel guitar master
An afternoon of musical performances will follow on the Plaza Stage at Waikiki Beach Walk with the following scheduled musicians, plus a number of special guests.
2:00-2:35 Greg Sardinha and Po`okela
2:45 -3:20 Ronald Kanahele with student Timi Abrigo and the Abrigo Ohana
3:30-4:05 Jeff Au Hoy and the Jeff Teves Trio
4:15-4:50 Alan Akaka and The Islanders with student Kilipaki
5:00-5:35 Casey Olsen and the Hiram Olsen Trio
5:40-6:00 Jam session – Alan Akaka, Casey Olsen, Greg Sardinha, Jeff Au Hoy, and Ronald Kanahele
Part of Outrigger Enterprises Group’s ongoing Na Mele No Na Pua Music Heritage program, the festival is being held in partnership with Embassy Suites®-Waikiki Beach Walk®, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association, and Territorial Airwaves, with support from Ke Kula Mele Hawaii.
Valet parking for Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival attendees will be available for $6.00 at the Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk (201 Beachwalk) and the Wyndham Vacation Ownership-Waikiki Beach Walk (227 Lewers Street), with any same-day purchase from any Waikiki Beach Walk merchant. That won't be hard to do and is a good deal in the heart of Waikiki in the middle of summer.
Travelers who want to enjoy the full 4th of July holiday weekend in Waikiki can take advantage of Outrigger’s great summer rates. For more information, log on to www.outrigger.com/summer.
