I wanted to write a review on the free Aloha Festival I attended this past March with my daughters and a few friends. This was my first year attending this event and although I assumed this event was geared more towards adult activities I was so happy and surprised to see how kid friendly this event was. \r
It looked like there was a lot of easy access parking all around. We only had a short walk right across the street to the festival which makes it really nice when you are pushing 2 kids in a stroller. From the parking lot we could hear all of the calming Hawaiian music and you could see my girls just getting ready to start dancing around like little wiggly worms. \r
As we walked in we were greeted by some of the festival volunteers who by the way were all so nice. The first thing we all noticed was the strong smell of some amazing foods and also the stages with entertainers all around. Watching the dancing was such an amazing part of our experience at the festival. Most of the dancers told stories about the queen and the traditions in Hawaii which was great for the kids to hear and understand the culture.\r
There are so many food vendors to choose from everything from American food, to traditional Hawaiian and Tahitian food. I had originally planned to pack a lunch for the kids but I am so glad I didn’t. A friend of mine recommended the Aloha Kitchen. As we were walking up to the booth I was blown away by the long lines and was almost afraid to wait with two anxious little ones by my said. I could smell so many different foods and was feeling pretty anxious myself. Thankfully the line went rather quickly and it was our turn to order. The staffs there were so great about recommending food for me and also for my daughters. I ordered the Kalbi ribs, rice, and potato mac for myself all of the food was just incredible. For the girls I ordered the teriyaki chicken and potato mac and they absolutely loved it. I can’t remember the exact amount I paid but I remember thinking wow the pricing really isn’t bad at all. The crowd was growing as the day went on but there were still lots of nice places to sit. We brought a blanket and had a picnic on the ground with the kids while we watched the entertainment.\r
After our amazing lunch we started looking around at all of the booths they have. Thankfully we came across a public restroom which was great to have rather than a porter potty for the kids to use. We then came across a bunch of fun activities for the kids. We made leis together and also some Hawaiian name labels. As the day went on it was getting hot and the kids were getting hungry again. We came across a booth with real shaved ice. It was a hit the kids loved it and I must say the ice cream surprise at the bottom was definitely my favorite part! \r
I was told that when organizing this event they are only looking for authentic merchandise. You can find anything from real flower leis, ear flowers, hats, Hawaiian pieces of art, music, and so much more all for such a great deal. I myself have never had the pleasure of going to Hawaii but my family and friends that have always talk about how expensive it is. So I found that this event was a great taste of Hawaiian culture without the 6 hour flight and everything else that comes along with being a tourist on vacation. I also felt great knowing my girls were seeing and learning something new about another culture. We can’t wait to go in 2012!\r
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