04/11/2024
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2024 EO e Emalani 💜•
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36th annual Emalani Festival in Kōkeʻe SP 11/2/24•
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Departing from Waimea in January 1871, Queen Emma and her entourage arrived to this same meadow on horseback, with over a dozen hula halau greeting her and paying homage to her life and accomplishments. Still despondent over the loss of her husband and only child, she came to Kauaʻi to regain her health and spirit. This area is often cold and wet that time of year.•
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She was guided by Kaluahi, an old mountain guide riding a white horse, who offered his services. The delays [of paying homage - singing mele and dancing hula] turned the trek into an overnight stay in the soggy Alaka‘i Swamp. It was the Queen who cheered up her companions with tales and song into the night. Even more her heart was lifted by the beautiful view of Wainiha, Hanalei and Kilauea from the Kilohana overlook. This festival is to commemorate Queen Emma’s journey here in 1871, and the many accomplishments throughout her life. After this trek the queen was known as Kaleleonālani - traveler of the mountains.•
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