Matsuri in Hawai‘i began in 1980 as a cultural exchange between Japan and
Hawai‘i. Matsuri creators realized that the number of people traveling from Japan to
Hawai‘i was increasing dramatically, and they wanted to ensure that the increased
interaction between these two cultures would be both enjoyable and educational.
Thus, Pan-Pacific Festival/Matsuri in Hawai‘i was born. In Hawai‘i this special event is called The Pan-
Pacific Festival, and in Japan they call the event Matsuri in Hawai‘i. They envisioned Matsuri as a means
to enrich the lives of both participating artists and guest audiences, while providing Hawai‘i residents with
a rewarding and participatory exposure to traditional Japanese culture.
In 1996, the festival expanded to include groups representing many cultures of the Pacific Rim. To
recognize this wider focus, the event name was changed to Pan-Pacific Festival Matsuri in Hawai‘i.
Events held during the festival include: Performing Arts Showcase, Pan-Pacific Ho‘olaule‘a, Art & Craft
Fair, Annual Pan-Pacific Hula Festival, Kaze (Wind) Festival, Performing Arts Showcase, and Pan-Pacific
Matsuri Parade.
