PAN-PACIFIC FESTIVAL-MATSURI IN HAWAII

ALOHA! On behalf of the Matsuri in Hawaii Advisory Committee, I extend my warmest welcome to all participants and sponsors of the 29^th Annual Pan Pacific Festival / Matsuri in Hawaii.  The long and exciting history of this event has offered many organizations the opportunity to participate and make it one of Hawaii's premier events and a destination for cultural festivals.

Many participants eagerly await this annual festival, which promotes cultural exchanges in the songs, dances and traditions of people living in Japan, Hawaii, and the Pacific Basin .  Though the festival began primarily to present the historical cultural activities from Japan, it has grown to other Asian countries and the Pacific Rim countries as well; and the cultural education, friendships, and exchanges, leave long lasting impressions and memorable experiences for everyone.  It is enjoyed by everyone… tourists (malihinis) and locals (kamaainas)…. young and old. The 3-day celebration begins with Hawaiian festivities on Friday evening where last year we had over 40,000 people who enjoyed the entertainment and food at our Ho`olaulea(street party).  We culminate the event with a grand parade along Kalakaua Avenue on Sunday.  This year, the United Japanese Society of Hawaii will be commemorating its 50^th anniversary and we hope you can join them in their celebration.  

On behalf of the Matsuri in Hawaii Advisory Committee, I would like to acknowledge all of the sponsoring and participating organizations for their generous contributions and hard work to make this event possible.  Additionally, we owe much gratitude to the State and City governments, Hawaii Tourism Authority, the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission, and the Consulate General of Japan. 

Best wishes for an enjoyable and memorable Matsuri in Hawaii

Mahalo and Aloha,

Benjamin I. Fukumoto

Chairman