Okinawan Fest to share film, food, music

Taiko performances, andagi and a colorful parade are some of the guaranteed-to-make-you-smile offerings at Hawaii United Okinawa Association’s 36th annual Okinawan Festival this weekend at the Hawai‘i Convention Center.

“This year we have some fun events within the festival,” said association vice president Lynn Miyahira.

These new features include screenings of Okinawan movies, including the Hawaii International Film Festival award-winning film “Jimami Tofu” and an awamori tasting, Miyahira said. Awamori is an alcoholic drink native to Okinawa. Tickets for the movies and tasting can be purchased via the event website.

Guests can count on festival favorites as well, including the sale of traditional foods like andadog and Okinawa soba, cultural and historical exhibits, and a market with specialty items.

“There will also be lots of fun children’s games like the andagi bean bag toss, face painting, soda-ring toss and inflatables for the kids,” Miyahira said. “Top-notch entertainment from local performing arts groups and special guests from Okinawa will be exciting for the whole family.”

36TH ANNUAL OKINAWAN FESTIVAL

>> Where: Hawai‘i Convention Center

>> When: 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday

>> Cost: Free

>> Note: Parking available at McKinley High School with a $3 shuttle (round-trip) or the convention center for $10; purchase a festival pin for $5 and get a free shuttle ride, plus coupons; no pets, hard-shell coolers or lawn chairs

>> Info: okinawanfestival.com