Makalauna Celebration

August 23, 2025

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 stand-out musical talents Kawika Kahiapo, George Kuo, Greg Sardinha, and MC Brickwood Galluteria.

Schedule: (scheduled to appear, subject to change)
4 to 8 p.m. – Brickwood Galluteria, host & emcee for Makalauna 2025
 
4:30 to 5:15 p.m.: Protocol and Opening Ceremonial Tribute

• Waikiki Beach Walk Cultural & Entertainment Director Blaine Kia
• Hālau Ka Waikahe Lani Mālie and Hālau Kahulaliwai
• Observance and lei draping of the Gabby Pahinui statue

5:15 to 8:30 p.m.: Live Musical Tributes (in order of appearance)

• Kawika Kahiapo & Kaukahi
• George Kuo Band
• Greg Sardinha & Friends
• Kunia Galdeira (grandson of Gabby) Kani Ka Pila Jam Session

Location: Waikiki Beach Walk, Plaza Stage

Members of the Pahinui ʻohana, including Gabby’s grandson, Kunia Galdeira, will perform along with a prestigious gathering of local musical friends, artists, entertainers, apprentices, devotees of the art form, and admirers of one of Hawaii’s greatest musicians.

“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.”