Makahiki: The Hawaiian New Year

What is Makahiki?

Makahiki is a traditional Hawaiian season that marks the beginning of the Hawaiian New Year. Lasting approximately four months, this season is dedicated to honoring the akua (god) Lono and recognizing the abundance of the land through ceremonies, offerings, feasting, and traditional games.

When does the Makahiki Season begin?

The Makahiki season traditionally begins around mid-November marked by the rising of Makali'i, or the Pleiades constellation, at sunset. This event begins the Hawaiian New Year, and the start of the season dedicated to Lono, agriculture, and peace.

Makahiki begins during 'Ikuwa, the Hawaiian lunar month, and continues through the rainy season.

The Significance of Lono During Makahiki

Lono is an important akua associated with agriculture, rainfall, fertility, and peace. During the Makahiki season, Hawaiians honored Lono through ceremonies, offerings, and celebrations that recognized the abundance of the land and its resources.

This season was also a time of rest, games, and community gatherings, reflecting Lono's association with peace and plenty. 

Lonoikamakahiki is one of several distinct akua identified by the name Lono in Hawaiian tradition. Each has its own jurisdiction and significance.

What is Akua Loa?

The Akua Loa is a tall ceremonial staff representing the akua Lono during the Makahiki season.

The Akua Loa features a carved figure representing Lono at its upper end, with a crosspiece decorated with pala fern, feather lei, and feather representations of the kaʻupu bird. White kapa (bark cloth) also hangs from the staff.

During Makahiki, the Akua Loa was used by an ali’i nui (chief) led in a procession around the island, traveling from one ahupuaʻa (land division) to another. Communities presented offerings such as pigs, taro, and mats to honor Lono and recognize the abundance of the land. 

Traditional Hawaiian Makahiki Games and Activities

During the Makahiki season, traditional Hawaiian games were more than entertainment. They challenged participants to develop physical strength, mental skill, and strategy while bringing communities together through friendly competition.

Although many of these games were practiced throughout the year, Makahiki provided an opportunity to showcase these abilities.

Some traditional Hawaiian Makahiki games and activities included:

• Heihei kūkini – Racing 
• Mokomoko – Boxing 
• Hākōkō – Wrestling, similar to sumo 
• Pūhenehene – A game of skill and deception 
• Kōnane – A strategic board game similar to chess 

These Makahiki games celebrate athletic ability, friendly competition, and the importance of strengthening community relationships. 

Celebrate Hawaiian New Year at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Hou'oli Makahiki Hou! Meaning 'Happy New Year' in Hawaiian, a greeting that offers a way to celebrate the arrival of a new year. This phrase can be broken down into the three words: 

• Hau'oli = happy, joyful 
• Makahiki = year 
• Hou = new

Want to learn more about the traditions of Hawaiian culture? Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in La'ie and explore the Islands of Polynesia, where the beautiful Hawaiian village teaches through cultural presentations and hands-on activities offer rich opportunities to learn about Hawaiian traditions, culture, and heritage.