Kahoolawe 50: A Free Music Concert Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Kahoolawe Landing

On January 4, 2026, Hawai'i will mark the 50th anniversary of the historic Kaho'olawe landing, a defining moment in the modern Hawaiian movement when nine courageous activists - later known as the Kaho'olawe Nine - defied U.S. military control and set foot on Kaho'olawe to protest decades of bombing that had devastated the island and desecrated sacred lands.

To honor this milestone, the community is invited to a free, all-ages public event at Hawaiian Brian's on Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The celebration brings together music, film, community organizations, and cultural expression to reflect on the legacy of Kaho'olawe and the movements it inspired.

Doors open at 4:00 p.m. with community booths, nonprofit organizations, and specialty vendors offering commemorative items throughout the evening. HI Finest will release a special, limited-edition Kaho'olawe 50th Anniversary clothing collection, created to honor the legacy of the landing and the enduring spirit of aloha 'aina. Additional nonprofit partners will sell anniversary-themed items, with proceeds supporting community-based cultural, environmental, and justice initiatives.

The event will include a Kaho'olawe video tribute and historic reflections honoring those who risked everything to protect the island.
Music anchors the celebration, with performances by Raiātea Helm and Ledward Ka'apana, Jerry Santos, Kealamauloa Alcon, and The Vitals 808.

Category: Live Music | Concert

Artists: Raiatea Helm and Ledward Ka'apana, Jerry Santos, Kealamauloa Alcon, and The Vitals