The Aloha Tower Marketplace is a popular tourist destination in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is a bustling hub of activity, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. But beyond the shopping and dining, the marketplace also offers a unique cultural experience for visitors.
The History of Aloha Tower Marketplace
Aloha Tower Marketplace was originally built in 1926 as a lighthouse and shipping port for the island of Oahu. It quickly became a symbol of welcome and aloha for visitors arriving by sea.In the 1990s, the marketplace was developed into a shopping and entertainment complex, while still preserving its historic charm. Today, Aloha Tower Marketplace is not only a popular spot for tourists, but also a gathering place for locals. It is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Hawaiian, Asian, and American traditions. This unique blend of cultures is reflected in the various cultural performances and demonstrations that take place at the marketplace.
Cultural Performances at Aloha Tower Marketplace
One of the most popular cultural performances at Aloha Tower Marketplace is the Polynesian Cultural Center's "Hawaiian Journey" show. This 45-minute performance takes place on the main stage at the marketplace and showcases traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and storytelling.The performers are all students from the Polynesian Cultural Center's training program, which aims to preserve and share Polynesian culture with visitors. Another must-see performance at Aloha Tower Marketplace is the "Aloha Friday Hula Show." This free show takes place every Friday afternoon and features hula dancers from various hula schools on the island. Visitors can watch as these graceful dancers tell stories through their movements, accompanied by live music and chanting. For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, the marketplace also offers a weekly "Bon Dance" during the summer months. This lively event features traditional Japanese folk dancing, taiko drumming, and delicious food from local vendors. It is a great opportunity to experience a different side of Hawaii's diverse culture.
Cultural Demonstrations at Aloha Tower Marketplace
In addition to performances, Aloha Tower Marketplace also hosts cultural demonstrations that allow visitors to learn more about Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions.One of the most popular demonstrations is the "Hawaiian Lei Making" workshop. Here, visitors can learn how to make their own lei using fresh flowers and leaves, while also learning about the significance of leis in Hawaiian culture. Another interesting demonstration is the "Hawaiian Quilting" workshop. This traditional art form has been passed down through generations and involves creating intricate designs on fabric using a technique called "appliqué." Visitors can watch as skilled quilters demonstrate this unique craft and even try their hand at creating their own quilt square. For those interested in learning about Hawaiian cuisine, the marketplace also offers a "Hawaiian Cooking" demonstration. Here, visitors can watch as local chefs prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
They can also sample these dishes and take home recipes to recreate the flavors of Hawaii in their own kitchen.
