Press Room

WHAT: Waikiki Beach Walk proudly announces the return of Makalauna, the very special annual festival that honors the late, slack-key virtuoso Charles Philip “Gabby” Pahinui, also affectionately known as “Pops.” Save the date for this special celebration which this year will include Del Beazley, Nathan Aweau, the Waimanalo Sunset Band and Greg Sardinha.
 
WHEN: Saturday, August 12, 2023
 
3:30 to 4:15 p.m.: Live performance prior to the ceremonies by the George Kuo Band, courtesy of the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame
 
4:15 to 5 p.m.: Protocol and Ceremonial Tribute

• Waikiki Beach Walk Cultural & Entertainment Director Blaine Kia
• Halau Ka Waikahe Lani Mālie
• Special Guest: Kunia Galdeira, grandson of Gabby Pahinui leading the lei draping

 
5 to 8 p.m.: Live Musical Tributes (in order of appearance)

• Del Beazley & Friends
• Nathan Aweau
• Waimanalo Sunset Band
• Greg Sardinha & Friends
• Special Guest Kunia Galdeira (grandson of Gabby) leading a super "Jam Session"

WHERE:  Waikiki Beach Walk, Plaza Stage. 227 Lewers Street

WHO:  Members of the Pahinui ʻohana, including “Pops’” grandson, Kunia Galdeira, who will be performing, along with a prestigious gathering of local musical friends, artists, entertainers, apprentices, and devotees of the art form along with admirers of one of Hawaii’s greatest musicians.
 
WHY: “Makalauna is more than just a celebration of one of Hawaiian music’s most important stars,” said Kumu Blaine Kia, cultural advisor for Waikiki Beach Walk, and organizer of the event. “It showcases the Hawaiian core belief system and our stewardship as the host culture in Waikīkī. It’s also a wonderfully heartwarming gathering where we are all “Friends of Gabby,” and able to show our affection to the man and his music.” 
 
WEB/INFO: For information, visit www.waikikibeachwalk.com/
PHOTOS: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/NAdO4d087n
MEDIA CONTACT:  PacRim Marketing Group IMS@pacrimmarketing.com or (808) 469-4811