Celebrate and experience the Hawaiian language at Ola Ka ‘I Kona from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Keauhou Shopping Center.

This finale of the 2026 Ola Ka ‘I statewide Hawaiian language fair series is hosted by Kanaeokana members, Ke Kula ‘o ‘Ehunuikaimalino, Ka La‘i a ‘Ehu and Punana Leo o Kona, along with Ke Kula ‘o Kamehameha.

Haumana, kumu, ‘ohana and community members are invited to engage with the Hawaiian language through hands-on activities, oli, mele, hula, storytelling and competitions in Hawaiian language speech, music and art.

Ola Ka ‘I began six years ago on Oahu to encourage keiki and ‘ohana to use ‘olelo Hawaii in everyday spaces — places where it isn’t typically heard. This year’s finale is especially meaningful in Keauhou, the birthplace of Kauikeaouli, Kamehameha III, an ali‘i who championed education for the Hawaiian Kingdom, shaping literacy and knowledge across the kingdom.

“Hawaiian culture-based education provides a strong foundation for haumana to grow as ‘Oiwi leaders,” said Manuwai Peters, senior coordinating project manager with Kealaiwikuamo‘o at Kamehameha Schools. “At Ola Ka ‘I events across Hawaii, they build upon that foundation by sharing ‘olelo Hawaii, strengthening Native Hawaiian identity and advancing the well-being of our lahui.”

Attendees can explore a variety of interactive experiences, including a pop-up keiki learning center in the ASU Local space, student language and music performances, games, information booths and intergenerational learning opportunities across all fluency levels.

A commemorative stamp card activity allows participants to collect stamps at stations while learning about Princess Ruth Ke‘elikolani’s life and leadership on her 200th birthday.

Families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full program and stay until the end for the announcement of the competition winners. All activities are free and open to the public, with ample parking available.

“Keauhou Shopping Center is proud to be a gathering place where our community comes together in celebration of the history, culture and language,” said Stephen Hicks, general manager of Keauhou Shopping Center.

For more information about Mahina ‘Olelo Hawaii and upcoming events, visit mahinaolelohawaii.org.