Ohana Music Festival: Why is it called
Ohana Music Festival?

September 26, 2024

Introduction

The transformation of Hawaiian culture started immediately after it was discovered by Captain James Cook in 1778. Anthropologists who studied the Hawaiian form of religion termed it archaic. This religion displayed it as a cult with the complexity of gods, priests, worship, acrifices, and divine and priestly kingship. Hawaiians' social and political systems work closely aligned with the religious systems.

Ohana Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in Dana Point, California, USA. This festival began as a partnership between Live Nation, Eddie Vedder, and Pearl Jam manager Mark Smith and is named after the Hawaiian concept of family.

The first event was held in August 2016, at Doheny State Beach. By 2023, the festival was attended by 14,500 people per day. A storyteller stage was also installed where speakers shared their views on issues concerning environmental justice. The festival's name, “Ohana”, was derived from the Hawaiian concept of family,advocating community, togetherness and a sense of belonging.

History and origin

The festival was conceived with the underlying aim of bringing people and communities together using music as a conduit. It also acted as a platform for sharing views and concerns to environmental awareness and community engagements.

The selection of Doheny State Beach as the festival venue was intentional because it provided picturesque backdrops and a relaxed beachside atmosphere that added festivity to the festival's ethos.

Over the years, this festival has grown Promisingly. This growth of attendees was counted up to 14,500 people per day in 2023. The festival hosts a diverse list of music celebrities who showcase a unique blend of music, community and activism.

Furthermore, it featured well-known artists and emerging talents presenting a multicultural and dynamic lineup that attracts a wide audience.

Purpose and impact

The underlying purpose Of the Ohana Music Festival is to showcase a blend of music, community and activism. The festival emphasises a sense of togetherness and brotherhood among visitors, reflecting the Hawaiian concept of “Ohana”.This is accomplished by using music as a primary channel and integrating other activities and initiatives during the festival.

One of the prominent features of the Ohana Festival is the storytelling stage where august speakers address essential social and environmental issues. This provides attendees with critical insight into different topics such as environmental justice, conservation, and community activism. It inspires them to act as the messengers of change for their communities. This dimension of the festival enhances the Positive impact beyond just providing entertainment.

In Addition, the festival also showcases a variety of culinary delights for food lovers.It adds positively to the outlook of the festival, which supports music, celebrations and also food and culture with equal measures.

Community and environmental initiatives

The Ohana Festival is a strong proponent of environmental sustainability and Community engagement. The festival organisers work hand in glove with local environmental organisers to promote conservation so to minimise festival's ecological Footprint. Eco-friendly initiatives such as beach cleanups, and recycling programmes are an integral essence of the festival operations.

Ohana Festival. also support various charitable efforts where a portion of the earnings go to Environment Protection and community development organisations. This further cements the festival's contours of developing a positive impact and fostering a sense of responsibility among attendees.

Conclusion

Founded by Eddi vedder and his partners, this festival has grown into an iconic cultural event that incorporates various cultural and social subjects with equal measures.