Free Hula Performance At Royal Hawaiian Center

This post has been sponsored by Royal Hawaiian Center as part of an ongoing partnership, but all thoughts, copy and photography is mine alone. 

Did you know that there are free classes you can take at Royal Hawaiian Center? It’s true! Royal Hawaiian Center offers complimentary cultural programming Monday – Saturday for visitors to the Center who wish to participate. One of their programs is a free hula performance every Saturday night right in the middle of Royal Hawaiian Center. 

Free Hula Performance At Royal Hawaiian Center

Last Saturday, Dane and I had a date night at Noi Thai, but arrived early to see the special Saturday Series presented by Royal Hawaiian Center. Hula Kahiko at Helumoa is a beautiful 30-minute program held on Saturdays from 6-6:30pm and it’s ENTIRELY FREE. I know, believe me, I was just as excited as you. I get it – Hawaii is expensive! But this amazing performance is entirely free and the people performing are SO talented. 

“This Saturday series presents a halau hula (hula school) and their ‘ōlapa (dancers) in The Royal Grove performing traditional hula where drumming chanting are the accompaniment. This contrasts with hula ‘auana (modern hula) where singing and European-introduced instrument are the accompaniment. Costuming, instruments and stories are described in this showcase of hula enjoyed by our kūpuna (ancestors) and generations hence.” 

If you plan to go, arrive early. We got there around 5:50 and the small Royal Grove area (where the stage is set up) was pretty full already with families utilizing the stones for seating. We noticed a couple families even brought/set up blankets (they came way more prepared than we did!) so their kids could relax/dance, so don’t hesitate to bring the whole family. 

Royal Hawaiian Center traffic picks up around dinner time (there are so many good places to eat inside), so a bunch of people who had been walking also stopped to watch. Can’t say I blame them!

Be sure to check Royal Hawaiian Center’s Events Calendar to stay up to date on what programs are coming up or offered that day, or during your stay. I also highly recommend the free lei making! 

If you liked this post, you might also enjoy Best Free Activities in Hawaii or How To Spend A Rainy Day In Hawaii