Polynesian Season
On Cinco de Mayo weekend there’s more to California than meets the eye as some celebrate Polynesian and island cultures at the same time. Would it rock your boat to learn that Polynesians may have visited California around 700 AD, sharing their knowledge with locals? According to an archaeologist and Anthropology professor at the California Polytechnic State University, contact with Chumash approx. 1,300 years ago likely resulted in conveyance of sewn-plank boat technology unlike any that existed across the New World. Another exchange approx. 700 years ago from Hawaii introduced advanced fishing techniques several hundred years before the Spaniards arrived by ship.
And thanks to those who introduced “island time” to our shores, Californians can experience Polynesian cultures through colorful costumes, sweet foods and dance moves that tell a story. Here’s a list of upcoming festivals & events:
FOSTER CITY Polynesian Festival at Leo Ryan Park May 3, 2014
SAN DIEGO San Diego Ho’olaule’a, bringing the Spirit of Aloha to De Anza Cove Park, May 3-4, 2014
ROSEVILLE Na Maka Pacific Island Competition at Placer County Fairground May 3, 2014
SAN PEDRO The Haumana indie smash hit from Hawaii comes to Warner Grand Theatre on May 3, 2014
