Spread the love

The 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) concluded last month with a sold-out closing ceremony at the University of Hawai’i’s SimpliFi Arena at the Stan Sheriff Center, with all 6,500 free tickets distributed to an enthusiastic audience. The festival ran from 6 to 16 June, showcasing the vibrant cultures of the Pacific.

Dr. Aaron Sala, Director of the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, emphasised the importance of unity among Pacific nations and their ancestors. During his address at the closing ceremony, Dr. Sala stated, “It is our responsibility to not step away from the table. All of the ancestors, you also have a responsibility to make sure that we don’t fall away from the table again.” He expressed his hope that FestPAC will leave a lasting legacy and inspire future generations to address pressing issues, such as the impacts of climate change, facing Pacific populations.

The closing ceremony saw delegations from 25 nations and thousands of attendees gather at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. The event concluded with a standing ovation and special acknowledgements to West Papua, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu.

FestPAC serves as a vital platform for Pacific Island nations to showcase their rich heritage and artistic talents. Originating in the 1970s to preserve and promote cultural identities, the festival was held in Hawai’i for the first time in its 52-year history. The City and County of Honolulu proudly sponsored the 13th FestPAC, celebrating the vibrant and diverse cultures of the Pacific region.

As FestPAC Hawai’i concludes, the festival leaves a legacy of unity, cultural preservation, and inspiration for future generations. The event’s success highlights the strength of the Pacific community and its commitment to addressing contemporary challenges while celebrating its rich cultural heritage.