The Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) invites the public to join a series of special events honoring the 50th birthday of Hōkūleʻa, Hawaiʻi’s iconic voyaging canoe. These celebrations will reflect on Hōkūleʻa’s beginnings and her profound impact, which has inspired cultural renewal across the Pacific and environmental stewardship worldwide.
Hōkūleʻa, Hawaiʻi’s legendary voyaging canoe, first launched on March 8, 1975. This milestone marks a half-century of cultural revival, environmental advocacy, and a renewed connection to the earth and ocean. Join us as we honor the past 50 years of Hōkūleʻa’s legacy and chart a course for the future. For updates on events and ways to participate in this historic celebration, check back on this page.
50th Anniversary Updates
Hōkūleʻa 50th Birthday Gala Tables and Tickets Available
As we prepare to celebrate a momentous occasion in the history of the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS), we are extending an invitation that is both...
PVS Invites Public to Share Hōkūleʻa Memories
In celebration of the 50th birthday of Hōkūleʻa, the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) is inviting the public to become a part of this historic...
Polynesian Voyaging Society Prepares to Celebrate Hōkūleʻa’s 50th Birthday in 2025
The Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) is proud to announce preparations to celebrate the 50th birthday of Hōkūleʻa, Hawaiʻi’s legendary voyaging...
Public Events
Saturday 08 March 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Hōkūleʻa’s 50th Birthday Commemoration at the 16th Annual Kualoa/Hakipuʻu Canoe Festival at Kualoa Regional Park
Festivities kick off on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the 16th Annual Kualoa Hakipuʻu Canoe Festival held at Kualoa Regional Park. From 8am to 4 pm, this free, family-friendly event will commemorate Hōkūleʻa’s historic launch on March 8, 1975 at the very site where the canoe was first assembled, blessed, and entered the ocean. This celebration is hosted in partnership with the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Parks and Recreation.
Sunday 09 March 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Hōkūleʻa 50th Birthday Gala Fundraiser (Table Sponsorships Available)
Hawai‘i Convention Center
The evening will celebrate Hōkūleʻa’s incredible legacy and raise funds to support PVS’s mission of perpetuating voyaging traditions and protecting the world’s oceans. The gala will feature performances by Hawaiʻi’s favorite artists and a showcase of fine cuisine prepared by renowned local chefs. Visit https://donate.hokulea.com/Hokulea50thGala for table sponsorship details.
Monday 10 March 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Hōkūleʻa Dockside Canoe Tours
Hawai‘i Convention Center
The celebrations continue with dockside canoe tours of Hōkūleʻa at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center. The public is invited to step aboard Hōkūleʻa and hear from young crew members and navigators who are training to take leadership roles in the next chapters of the Moananuiākea Voyage.
Friday 14 March 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Hōkūleʻa’s 50th Birthday: E Ola Mau (Public Event)
Bishop Museum After-Hours Celebration
On Friday, March 14, the Bishop Museum will host an after-hours event honoring Hōkūleʻa’s 50th birthday. The museum, a pivotal partner in Hōkūleʻa’s inception, will pay tribute to the canoe’s origins and legacy with special exhibits and programming dedicated to the history of traditional Polynesian voyaging. Please find program details at this event link.
Call for Submissions
In celebration of the 50th birthday of Hōkūleʻa, the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) is inviting the public to become a part of this historic milestone by sharing their personal remembrances, stories, photos, or videos that honor the history and impact of the legendary canoe.