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Hawaiian Christmas Songs

Christmas in Hawaii isn't complete without the fun and festive holiday Hawaiian music. It's the traditional with a definite island twist. Filled with lyrics in both Hawaiian and English, these songs are a joy for anyone wishing to remember and reminisce about the holidays in Hawai'i Nei. Mele Kalikimaka!

Here's a couple of our favorite modern Hawaiian Christmas songs and fun videos.

 

Kacey Musgraves - Mele Kalikimaka (Live from CMA Country Christmas)

Mele Kalikimaka (1949)
R. Alex Anderson

Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say
On a bright Hawaiian Christmas Day
That's the island greeting that we send to you
From the land where palm trees sway
Here we know that Christmas will be green and bright
The sun to shine by day and all the stars at night
Mele Kalikimaka is Hawaii's way
To say "Merry Christmas to you."

(Repeat)

The words "Mele Kalikimaka" are a phonetic translation. When the missionaries and other Westerners first brought the custom of Christmas to the islands the Hawaiians had difficulty pronouncing Merry Christmas and turned it into words that rolled more easily off their tongues.

 

 

(The above video version of Numbah One Day of Christmas is a family friendly version of the original performed by Na Leo Pilimehana, Video by Corinna Gandara)

Numbah One Day of Christmas
(The 12 Days of Christmas local style)
Eaton B. Magoon Jr., Edward Kenny, Gordon N. Phelps

Numbah One day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
One mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Two day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Tree day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Foah day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Five day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Five beeg fat peeg... foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Seex day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg (that make TEN!),
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Seven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eight day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg (that make TWENNY!), foah flowah lei, tree dry squid,
two coconut, An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Nine day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin',
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah let, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Ten day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Ten can of beer, nine pound of poi, eight ukuklele, seven shrimp a-swimmin'
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg,
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eleven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eleven missionary, ten can of beer, nine pound of poi,
Eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

(Numbah Twelve day of Christmas the bes', and the bes' stuff always come las'...)

Numbah Twelve day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Twelve TELEVISION, eleven missionary, ten can of beer,
Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin',
Seex hula lesson, FORTY steenkin' peeg,
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree!

© 1959 Hawaiian Recording and Publishing Company, Inc.

 

 

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Awesome additions to the store(s)

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. We can't offer to huge discounts that the large stores offer this time of year but we can offer new exciting products. We hope that you'll consider us for your Small Business Saturday shopping.

If you've been to our store recently, you might have noticed a few new sections. We've added some Tane (mens), Vahine (womens), Home and Gear areas on the website. Of course, we're always adding new handicrafts as well but we thought we'd open it up a little and offer some items for everyday use as well. 

For the Vahine and Tane sections, we've started adding awesome clothes made with our own tattoo and pareo designs. Our Tatou line is now available in some fun variations including leggings, shoes, bedding, phone and electronic cases, bags, pillows, and a whole lot more. We have some on our store but there are more that are available with our partner developers:

Zazzle, Cafe Press, Red Bubble, and Spoonflower

Take for example Zazzle, our newest partner. You can find some premium versions of iPhone and Galaxy phone covers. The print is all-over including the sides. Our main store offers the back print only (iPhone designs only). Either is great to help protect your phone. And if you are looking for a way to walk around and get attention, check out the leggings. Each of our stores has a slightly different version, and may vary on style. 

Do you sleep Polynesia? Our all-over prints are available on duvets now as well - king, queen, and twin sizes. And don't forget that because we have our designs all in digital format, we can create custom colors for you as well. Isn't that awesome? Give us your idea and we'll run with it, give a few options and voila, you have your own custom colors.

Enough of that though. You're probably busy with all the holiday bustle and hustle so we'll let you get back to it. But don't forget us. We're here for you.

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Getting the Tattooing Creative Juices Going

Getting the Tattooing Creative Juices Going

 

So it's been awhile since I drew the last tattoos. I have to admit that I personally don't have any tattoos. Thought about them, but never had any. I flirted with it in college, but finally decided not to. It's a personal choice. 

That being said, I still love to look at them and enjoy the creativity. I especially love the traditional Marquesan and Tahitian designs. Samoan right behind that and then Hawaiian. I'm not too big a fan of modern melding with contemporary motifs (eg. mermaids, names, photos, or even full color, etc). I'll stick with the traditional (with maybe a tweak here or there).

I've been slowly introducing some products to the store recently that incorporate my new tattoo designs. These are all inspired by traditional Marquesan and Tahitian tattoo designs. I'm calling it my "Tatou" line. The first 4 designs are out and I've placed them on some fun things. 

Check out the phone covers. This is limited only to the iPhone models currently. The all over designs will get you noticed. I'm thinking about colors as well. Tatou III is all red. Although I'm thinking about adding different colors. Tatou Moana is blue. For obvious reasons as it is ocean (moana) themed. The other 2 are classic black and white. Typical for Tahitian tattoo textiles. Nothing wrong with the classics. 

Shop the store now for unique iPhone covers

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Money Saving Tips For Getting To The Tahitian Dance Festival - Heiva

You've spent hundreds of dollars for costumes and classes already. Travel to the event is another big expense you wish you didn't have. Island hopping to get to the different Heiva (Tahitian dance festival) on different islands can sometimes (who am I kidding? all the time) be expensive, especially in Hawaii. Why not pool your frequent flyer miles together to get airline tickets? A great way to rack up the miles is ask friends and family to donate to your account. Many airlines now allow sharing miles. Get 5 friends to donate 1000 miles each and you are almost there for a one-way inter island flight (usually 7500 miles one-way).

Another way is to use a business credit card that gets miles. They usually have annual fees but if you use it enough (spend more than $500 a year) you'll usually be able to justify the cost and savings toward a flight. A word of caution, these credit cards usually have higher interest rates but if you keep the balances down or at $0, this won't be a problem. If you haven't started yet, you should and you'll be that much further ahead next time you need to fly (outer islands or the mainland).

Hawaiian Airlines has several credit cards/debit cards that get miles through Bank of Hawaii. And don't forget the partner retailers and special offers (for example, Foodland occasionally offers double miles redemption for their shopper rewards program). There are some partners that offer 5x miles the dollar amount spent. But timing is key on these offers. One way to make sure you are at least aware of these offers is to sign up for email alerts or add their rss feed to your favorite news reader.

American Express Rewards is also a great option. If you can collect enough points for flights, you'll be able to save quite a bit. If you don't have enough, try looking into hotel accommodations and/or car rentals as another way to cut costs. You can also link frequent guest accounts to accumulate points faster. 

What if you have a large group? Check into chartering a flight. Many times large groups are attractive to carriers as it guarantees seats, dates and revenue. Group rates are generally lower that then standard retail rate too. A total package is worth looking into so ask about that as well. Travel industry professionals always have information about deals, promotions and additional rates that hotels and transportation might not publish to the public. It doesn't hurt to ask. If you can get it all in one place, it makes it that much easier. That way you don't have to keep constantly following up with all aspects (but make sure you do some follow up no matter what). 

Lastly, a no-brainer, make sure you add your frequent flyer number to your flights. Flying to the mainland and back will get you about half way towards an inter island award flight. Make sure all who are flying are getting miles. Sometimes I forget to add the number to my kids flights. (they get miles too as long as they have a paid seat). If you forget, you can add them in retroactively too as long as you do it within the required time (Hawaiian Airlines gives you 4 months from the actual flight date).

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Hawaiian Christmas Songs

Christmas in Hawaii isn't complete without the fun and festive holiday Hawaiian music. It's the traditional with a definite island twist. Filled with lyrics in both Hawaiian and English, these songs are a joy for anyone wishing to remember and reminisce about the holidays in Hawai'i Nei. Mele Kalikimaka!

First the classics.

 

Away in a Manger (He Kapu Hanai)
Composed by William J. Kirkpatrick

He kapu hanai oia ka moe
No ke kamaiki e hia moe ai 
Nana mai lana hoku mailuna mai 
Ia Iesu ka Haku o moe lai ana.
Away in a manger no crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head
The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. 
The cattle are lowing the baby awakes
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love you Lord Jesus; look down from the sky
And stay by my side until morning is nigh.

 

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Mele Mai Na 'Anela) 
Written by: Charles Wesley & Felix Mendelssohn    
Hawaiian lyrics by Laiana

Hamau `e na kanaka

Mele mai na `anela
Eia ke Li`i hanau hou
E ho'onani a`e `oukou
Malu no ko lalo nei
E hau`oli ho`omaika`i
Ke Akua ko ke ao
Ku`ikahi pu lakou
Ke Akua ko ke ao
Ku`ikahi pu lakou

Oli a`e na `aina ka a pau
Oli pu me kela ao
E ha`i a`e mai `o a `o
Iesu ke Li`i no kakou
Hele mai ka lani mai
Hanau `ia no ma`ane`i
No kakou i hanau hou
A loa`a ke ola mau
No kakou i hanau hou
A loa`a ke ola mau

E aloha ke Li`i mau
Ke Li`i pono no kakou
Lama ola malu no
No keia ao a pau
Mele `e na kanaka
Mele me na `anela
Eia ke Li`i hanau hou
Pomaikai a malu mau
Eia ke'lii hanau hou
Pomaika'i a malu mau

Hark the herald angels sing 
Glory to the new born King 
Peace on earth and mercy mild 
God and sinners reconciled 
Joyful all ye nations rise 
Join the triumph of the skies 
With the angelic hosts proclaim 
Christ is born in Bethlehem 
Hark the herald angels sing 
Glory to the new born King

Christ by highest heaven adored 
Christ the everlasting Lord 
Late in time 
Behold Him come 
Offspring of the Virgins's womb 
Veiled in flesh 
The Godhead see 
Hail the incarnate Deity 
Pleased on earth with us to dwell 
Jesus our Emmanuel

Hail the heaven born 
Prince of peace 
Hail the son of 
Righteousness 
Light and life to all He brings 
Risen with healing in His wings 
Mild He lays His glory by 
Born that we no more may die 
Born to raise us from the earth 
Born to give us second birth

 

It Came Upon The Midnight Clear (Ka Po La`ela`e Ka Hikina Mai)
Written by Ed H. Sears & Richard S. Willis  
Hawaiian lyrics by Edward Kahale

Ka po la`ela`e ka hikina mai
Ia mele `oli nei
Mai na `anela i ke ao
Ho`okani mai lakou
He malu he aloha no
Mai ka Makua mai
Mehameha ke ao a pau
Aloha no lakou

Mai loko mai o ke ao
A wehe a`e na `eheu
A `o na mele ke `o mai la
I ke ao luhi nei
Maluna a`e o ka honua
Kulou mai no lakou
Ho`okani no a lohe `ia
Ka leo o na `anela

 

It came upon the midnight clear 
That glorious song of old 
From angels bending near the earth 
To touch their harps of gold 
Peace on the earth goodwill to men 
From heavens's all gracious King 
The world in solemn stillness lay 
To hear the angels sing

Still through the cloven skies they come 
With peaceful wings unfurled 
And still their heavenly music floats 
O'er all the weary world 
Above its sad and lowly plains 
They bend on hovering wing 
And ever over its babel sounds 
The blessed angels sing

 

 

Jingle Bells (Kani Na Pele) 
Written by: J.S. Pierpont    
Hawaiian lyrics by Ronald Brown

Kani na pele
Kani na pele
Kani na wa apau
Le`ale`a no ke kau `oe
Ma ke ka`a holo hau
 
Ha`ule mai ka hau
A holo no lakou
Maluna o na kula
Me na leo hau`oli
 
Kani mai na pele
Hau`oli nui no
Ka hele `ana i ka holo
Hau keia po

 

Jingle bells 
Jingle bells 
Jingle all the way 
Oh what fun it is to ride 
In a one horse open sleigh 
  
Dashing through the snow 
In a one horse open sleigh 
Oe'r the fields we go 
Laughing all the way 
  
Bells on bobtail ring 
Making spirits bright 
What fun it is to ride and sing 
The sleighing song tonight

 

 

Joy to the World (Hiki Mai Hau`oli Honua) 
Written by Isaac Watts      Music by George Handel    
Hawaiian lyrics by Hiram Bingham

 

Pomaika`i wale ko ke ao

Ua hiki mai ke Ali`i
E moe e na `aina a pau
E malu nui mai
E malu nui mai
E malu, malu nui mai

Hau`oli `o Iesu ke Ali`i
Mahalo kanaka
Ho`okani a`e na mea a pau
E pau ho`i na kina
E pau ho`i na kina
E pau, e pau ho`i na kina

A nana e ho`omalu mau
Ke aupuni pomaika`i
A `ike pu na `aina a pau
Ia pono e ola ai
Ia pono e ola ai
Ia pono, pono e ola ai

Joy to the world 
The Lord is come 
Let earth receive her King, let every heart prepare Him room 
And heaven and nature sing 
And heaven and nature sing 
And heaven and heaven and nature sing

Joy to the world the Savior reigns 
Let men their songs employ 
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains 
Repeat the sounding joy 
Repeat the sounding joy 
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy

He rules the world with truth and grace 
And makes the nations prove 
The glories of His righteousness 
And wonders of His love 
And wonders of His love 
And wonders, wonder of His love

 

O Come All Ye Faithful (E Hele Mai `Oukou) 
Written by John F. Wade & M.A. Portogallo   
Hawaiian lyrics by Laiana

E hele mai `oukou

Ka po`e mana`o`i`o
E hele hau`oli i Betelehema
Hele mai a `ike
I ka Mo`i hanau hou

Ho`onani kakou Ia ia
Ho`onani kakou Ia ia
Ho`onani kakou Ia ia
Kristo ka Haku

Ka lama i`o
Mai ka Lama mai
He nani Ka hua a ka pu`u pa`a
Akua maoli i hana `ole i`a

O come all ye faithful 
Joyful and triumphant 
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem 
Come and behold Him 
Born the King of angels

O come let us adore Him 
O come let us adore Him 
O come let us adore Him 
Christ the Lord

God of God 
Light of Light 
Lo, he comes forth from the Virgin's womb 
Our very God, begotten, not created

 

O Little Town of Bethlehem (Betelehema Iki E) 
Written by Phillip Brooks & Lewis Redner  
Hawaiian lyrics by Edward Kahale

Betelehema iki e

Ke `ike nei makou
Kou moe `ana i ka po
Pane`e a`e na hoku
La`ela`e no kou mau ala
Ka lama e ola ai
Ka li`a ka weli o na kau
Aia no me `oe

Hanau `ia `o Kristo
A hui a`e ko `o
Moe ko ke ao a kia`i mau
Na`anela maika`i
Hui pu na hoku ao
Kukala a`e `oukou
A mililani i ke Akua

  1. He malu i kanaka

O little town of Bethlehem 
How still we see thee lie 
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep 
The silent stars go by 
Yet in thy dark street shineth 
The everlasting light 
The hopes andfears of all the years 
Are met in thee tonight

For Christ is born of Mary 
And gathered all above 
While mortals sleep 
The angels keep their watch of wondering love 
O morning stars together 
Proclaim the holy birth 
And praises sing to God the King 
And peace to all on earth

 

 

Silent Night (Po La`i E)
Lyrics by: Joseph Mohr     Music by: Franz Gruber 
Translated by: Noelani Kanoho Mahoe and Samuel H. Elbert

Po la`i e, po kamaha`o,  

Maluhia, malamalama  
Ka makuahine aloha e  
Me ke keiki hemolele e  
Moe me ka maluhia lani  
Moe me ka maluhia lani 

Po la`i e, po kamaha`o,  
Oni na kahu hipa e  
I ko ka lani nani no  
Mele na `anela haleluia.  
Hanau `ia Kristo ka haku.  
Hanau `ia Kristo ka haku. 

Po la`i e, po kamaha`o,  
Keiki hiwahiwa aloha e,  
Ka lama la`i mai luna mai  
Me ka lokomaika`i makamae.  
Iesu i kou hanau `ana.  
Iesu i kou hanau `ana.

Peaceful night, wonderful night,  
Peace, light  
The beloved mother  
With the holy child  
Sleep in heavenly peace.  
Sleep in heavenly peace. 

Peaceful night, wonderful night,  
The shepherds come  
With the heaven's beauty 
The angels sing hallelujah. 
Christ the Lord is born.  
Christ the Lord is born. 

Peaceful night, wonderful night, 
Beloved sacred child,  
Light of peace from above  
With goodwill and purity.  
Jesus for your birth.  
Jesus for your birth.

Na Mele O Hawai`i Nei." 1970, University of Hawai`i Press

 

And now some Hawaiian originals and twists on classics.

 

Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei
Louis R. Kauakahi

Clear blue skies, pristine seas,
Swaying palms in the tropical breeze
On Christmas Day in Hawai'i Nei.

Bustling crowds in shopping malls,
Blinking lights in front of City Hall,
Such is Christmas Day in Hawai'i Nei.

King Street's crowded with a motorcade,
With Santa riding high in a big parade,
What a wonderful way,
To spend Christmas Day in Hawai'i Nei.

Children's faces all aglow,
Liquid sunshine in place of snow,
On Christmas Day in Hawai'i Nei.

Garlands red, green, and gold,
See Waikiki's majesty unfold,
On Christmas Day in Hawai'i Nei.

All around the islands, far and near,
"Mele Kalikimaka," you will hear,
Na Malihini will say,
Na kama'aina will say,
"Merry Christmas to you"… in Hawai'i Nei.

 

Hawaiian Santa
Mary Johnson and Tony Todaro

Hawaiian Santa is a sight to see
When he comes surfing into Waikiki
He wears a malo around his big Opu
Singing a Merry Christmas and waving to you.

Hawaiian Santa with a great big bag
'Climb the window into your grass shack
He dance the hula around the Christmas tree
Bringing a lot of presents for you and for me.

Soft guitars are playing
Christmas songs to fill the tropic skies
Coco palms are swaying
Santa's here again in paradise.

Hawaiian Santa goes around the isle
And does the hula with a great big smile
He waves Aloha with a Christmas cheer
Mele Kalikimaka and Happy New Year.

 

Mele Kalikimaka (1949) 
R. Alex Anderson

Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say
On a bright Hawaiian Christmas Day
That's the island greeting that we send to you
From the land where palm trees sway
Here we know that Christmas will be green and bright
The sun to shine by day and all the stars at night
Mele Kalikimaka is Hawaii's way
To say "Merry Christmas to you."

(Repeat)

The words "Mele Kalikimaka" are a phonetic translation. When the missionaries and other Westerners first brought the custom of Christmas to the islands the Hawaiians had difficulty pronouncing Merry Christmas and turned it into words that rolled more easily off their tongues.

 

Numbah One Day of Christmas
(The 12 Days of Christmas local style)
Eaton B. Magoon Jr., Edward Kenny, Gordon N. Phelps

Numbah One day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
One mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Two day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Tree day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Foah day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree. 

Numbah Five day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Five beeg fat peeg... foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Seex day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg (that make TEN!),
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Seven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eight day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg (that make TWENNY!), foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, 
two coconut, An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Nine day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin',
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah let, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Ten day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Ten can of beer, nine pound of poi, eight ukuklele, seven shrimp a-swimmin'
Seex hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg,
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eleven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eleven missionary, ten can of beer, nine pound of poi,
Eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', seex hula lesson,
Five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

(Numbah Twelve day of Christmas the bes', and the bes' stuff always come las'...)

Numbah Twelve day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Twelve TELEVISION, eleven missionary, ten can of beer,
Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin',
Seex hula lesson, FORTY steenkin' peeg,
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,
An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree!

© 1959 Hawaiian Recording and Publishing Company, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

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The Coconut Créche - Hawaii's Nativity Scene

One of the most beloved and eye catching items we have in our store is the Hawaiian Coconut Créche. This unique handmade nativity scene immediately says "Hawaiian" to anyone who has stepped foot in Polynesia. Standing about an average of about 4 1/2 - 5 inches tall, the crèche is actually a coconut that has been cut into, emptied of the meat and water, dried and shaped to look like a stable... made from a coconut. 

Inside of the crèche we have the standard Jesus in a crib, Mary, Joseph, an angel, stable animals and to add a little more "Hawaiian" to it, we add a coconut tree. All the figures are made of wood and complement nicely the wooden feel of the coconut manger. 

Every year we get the créche with the figures separately. We glue the figures onto the base, let dry and pack away. We send most out during the Christmas season but still try to offer throughout the year.

We have keiki (kids) now and one thing we are always on the lookout for are crafts or gifts that they can make themselves for their grandparents, family and friends. Then it hit me. Why not have them make their own coconut crèche for their Tutu (Grandma)? And why not offer that to everyone as well? So, for the first time this year, we are offering a "make-your-own" créche. It's a great hands-on project that is easy, fun and a great reminder of the Christmas season and the Aloha of the Hawaiian islands. 

Everything is included (minus the scissors needed to open the glue). We've switched to wood glue as it dries clear and is made for... wood. It's easy and best of all there is no right or wrong in how you arrange your figures. Put the tree in the back. Move the angel in the middle. It's up to you where you want to place them. But if you can't decide, we've included suggested placement directions as well. However you arrange them, the person receiving the crèche is sure to love it. Especially because it is something you or your keiki made especially for them. Enjoy. Mele Kalikimaka!

PS. We'd love to see how they turn out for your loved ones. Post your pictures on our Facebook page or tag #blackpearldesigns on Instagram.

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How to Tie a Pareu - Part I

How do you tie a pareu? Just ask any islander and you'll get at least a dozen different answers. Pareus can be worn in a number of ways, some of the more popular wraps are illustrated here. You can be creative or practical in your ties, but all seem to have one thing in common - a sense of comfort and personal style. We've brought together a few of our most popular ties that we'd like to share with you. 

The word pareu (a modern popular variation is the word "pareo") has been used generically to mean any wrap which holds true for other similar descriptive words such as sarong (India), lava lava (Samoa), kikepa (Hawaii), sulu (Fiji), wraparound (US). Pareus did not evolve from a sarong or vice versa. Find out more about the history of the pareo and about our Tahitian pareos.

 

TIARE TAHITI
The classic tie that's so easy, comfortable and practical. Wrap the pareo around your back and take the two ends and bring them around to your front. Hold one end over your shoulder and bring the other end around to meet it. Tie both ends together over your shoulder. Add a tiare in your hair and you're one step closer to paradise.

 

 

MAITA'I
The Society Islands are the epitome of paradise. With everything perfect, a Tahitian pareo tyed in the Maita'i (good) style adds more than a fun twist. To start off, hold the pareo lengthwise and wrap around to your front. While holding the top corners, pull across your front. Pull and twist the ends to make a secure half knot. Open up one of the loose ends, cover breast and tuck in back. Cover the other breast with the remaining loose end. Tuck in back, or if the ends are long enough, tie both ends in back. The finished Maita'i style is a great look that gives a faux bandeau look with a twist to island fashion. To add a finishing touch, add our Maita'i Black Pearl Shell Earrings for that fun island fashion statement.

 

 

OAOA 
Samoa isn't the only island with "happy" people. The Oaoa (happy) style has brought smiles to more than just those who wear it. It's a simple classic style that is both comfortable and practical. Start by wrapping the pareo around your body. Bring the two ends to the front and pull across your front. Holding the two ends, tie together behind your neck to secure. Straighten out the front and adjust neckline as desired. This is a perfect beach wrap. Whether on the way to the beach, or playing in the surf, this is the perfect light and airy pareo tie.

 

 

HUAHINE 
Start by wrapping the pareo lengthwise around your body. Hold the two top ends, pulling across your body and twist in front. Still holding the ends, twist a second time to secure in place. Twist the ends to make a coil. Bring both ends up and around your neck. Secure and tie both ends together. Adjust and tuck in front. The Huahine style is fast and easy to create. With finishing touches of brushing out your hair and a touch of Tahitian monoi oil to lightly scent, you're all set for a fun-filled day at the beach.

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Pareo History & Origins

Little is documented on the history of the pareo. However much can be compared to the ancient art of tapa making. Clothing of Tahiti (French Polynesia) traditionally was made of ti leaf, banana leaf, lauhala leaf, coconut fiber, inner wild hibiscus bark, ulu (breadfruit) bark, and inner paper mulberry bark. Ulu bark and paper mulberry bark were used to make a fabric called tapa. The paper mulberry was the most popular bark used for this purpose.

The word pareo has been used generically to mean any wrap which holds true for other similar words such as sarong. A pareo did not evolve from a sarong or vice versa. Each of these cultures has unique designs. A wrap with Indonesian designs is a sarong and a wrap with Tahitian designs is a pareo.
          

Traditional Tahitian Bark-cloth (Tapa) Robe. Paris, Musée de l'Homme

It's as easy as a point and click. Today, a pareo can arrive on your doorstep in a very short amount of time. You can even get instructions on how to make and how to tie a pareo readily available to anyone with a computer and access to the internet. It's a contrast in study to the ancient Tahitians and their pareos and dress.

Unlike other populated areas of the world, the islands in the South Pacific did not use plants to make woven fabric. Although cotton and other fabric making plants were available, the islanders did not acquaint themselves with traditional textiles and woven materials common in western society. Instead they made clothing and light garments from tapa (beaten bark) or woven leaves, most notably the lauhala (pandanus).

The most common dress for the men was the maro, a simple loin-cloth. Similar to the malo of Hawaii, this traditional dress consisted of a single narrow piece of tapa wrapped around the waist and between the legs. It was a practical dress for the hot and humid climate that Tahiti experiences almost all year round.

Women of ancient Tahiti wore a pa-u or pareu (pareo), a garment tied around the waist that usually draped to the knees. Prior to contact with western ideals, women often went topless during the regular course of the day. As western influence entered the Tahitian society as well as other South Pacific islands, the women gradually adapted the pareo to mimic western women's wear. Most visible was a simple tie over one shoulder and leaving the opposite shoulder bare. It was a practical adjustment that gave modesty to their island wear.

In cooler weather and during celebrations or festivals, men and women both added a tiputa (tapa poncho). With a vertical slit to allow for the head through, and open sleeves and sides, it allowed for a limited amount of protection. At times it was decorated with printed designs such as leaves, ferns, or depictions close to the individual.

Clothing in general was of a loose nature other than the everyday maro. As tapa making is a labor intensive process, tailoring to the individual for such a short time in which the tapa was useful, was not practical. The tapa cloth layers were called 'ahu (draped tapa).

Everyday common clothes were usually brown due to the natural coloring produced from the bark of the banyan and the paper mulberry trees. For special occasions, times of celebration, and for those of high rank or importance, a beautiful white tapa made from the bark of the ulu (breadfruit) tree was worn. It was called the ahupuupuu. Royalty also wore tiputa embellished with red and black feathers, robes of tapa and pareu made of fine mats.

It's important to know that the change from tapa to conventional western style cloth was a gradual process. The initial introductions to the cloth were by western explorers. They would come in military attire fashioned in cloth textiles. As a gift or trade with the arii (royalty) they would sometimes offer pieces of clothing that were admired by the islanders. It was a symbol of status to those ancient islanders. Gradually as more and more ships arrived, more clothing was introduced and more people were able to obtain the cloth.

European explorers of the 1700s introduced textiles and the advent of industrial advances. But it was when the Christian missionaries arrived a short time later that cotton clothing replaced the bark wraps. The missionaries desired to "civilize" the Tahitians and taught them that there should be a degree of modesty. They introduced European clothing and textiles, higher in quality and more durable than the traditional tapa cloth.

With trade routes established, supply lines for breadfruit, vanilla, and coconuts were not the only things Westerners saw potential for. It was not until merchant ships, with purposes to trade and make a profit in a new market, did the clothing of Westerners take a more dominant role. Not only was the westerners cloth easier to work with, but it also was more durable, functional, long-lasting, stronger and capable of absorbing a variety of dyes to ornament.

Eventually the use of tapa as clothing became obsolete. Western style of dress was modified and adapted to suit island lifestyles. In the 20th century, the dawning of the modern day pareo began. It was after a wartime shortage of cotton from England during World War II, that the value of the modern pareo become apparent. Pareos became scarce. But with the war over, production began again.


Tahitian designs on the fabric were either freehand drawings resembling designs in wood carving and tattoos or prints using fern leaves and flowers. Modern Tahitian designs follow one of two methods: highly stylized tattoo, flower and fern patterns screened onto fabric through manufacturing or hand-dyed with the use of fern or flower stencils. The fabric is generally 2 yards in length and can be made out of cotton, rayon or silk. Many designs feature bright colors and reflect the beautiful colors seen in the islands.

References:
      
The Art of Tahiti Barrow, Tui Terrence 1979 (out of print)
Islands of Tahiti Christian, Erwin and Raymond Bagnis 1983 (out of print)
Tahiti Stanley, David 2003
Pareo Paradise Wilson, Patricia & Christian 1984
Arii Creations Tahiti 1985
Pareo Hermes Paris 1988
No Pareu! Pacific Islands Monthly Feb 17, 1944 v 14 n7 pg 28
Ancient Tahiti Henry, Teuira 1971
The Tahiti Handbook Saquet, Jean Louis 1998
Oceanic Art Kaeppler, Kaufmann, Newton 1997

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The Maori Haka

Kia Ora. The Maori of Aotearoa... Land of the Long White Cloud, have a rich cultural tradition reaching back to ancient origins.

An excellent source of information on the Maori haka can be found at the Tourism New Zealand website. An indepth look at the origins and history of not only the haka, but of the cultural importance of the traditions associated with the haka that have been handed down from generation to generation.

The most recognized haka is Kamate. Practically every Maori warrior learns this classic. It's simplicity makes it the ideal haka to teach. It's power, or mana, can be felt not only by the performers, but also those who observe and take in the experience. Writing about it, or even taking pictures and video just doesn't do it justice. No weapons are needed as the body and intimidating stances and gestures make for a most formidable weapon itself.

A Ka Mate! Ka mate!
'Tis death! 'Tis death!

Ka ora! Ka ora!

'Tis life! 'Tis life!

Ka mate! Ka mate!
'Tis death! 'Tis death!

Ka ora! Ka ora!
'Tis life! 'Tis life!

Tenei te tangata pohuruhuru
Behold! There stands the hairy man
Nana nei i tiki mai whakawhiti te ra!
Who will cause the sun to shine!

A hupane! A kaupane!
One step upwards, another step upwards!
A hupane! A kaupane!
One step upwards, another step upwards!
Whiti te ra!
The sun shines!

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Tahitian Dance

Mention Tahiti and you'll get a myriad of responses. It's the birth place of one of the most vibrant and entertaining ethnic dances in the world - the tamure. Tahiti e Imua.

First-hand experiencing of the enchanting beauty and charm of ancient Tahitian dances and cultural presentations is unforgettable. The pulsing drums, the blur of the hip shaking, intoxicating tropical flower scents, and the unmistakable energetic performance that is Tahitian dance are brought together here. Feel free to explore our growing collection of information and sources of the dance and culture of Tahiti.

iPolynesia.com

Tahitian Dance Groups Directory and Tahitian Dance Events Calendar.

More and more of the Tahitian dance groups are coming online. This makes it easier to get in touch, organize and coordinate to give you the information you are looking for. Visit your local Tahitian dance group or look into finding a group in your area.

Dances and Songs of Tahiti

The true name of the Tahitian dance is "'Ori Tahiti". The first names of all the kind of dances have completely disappeared. Today, only the word "Hura" is still used.

‘Ote’a
The most spectacular of all Polynesian dances, performed by a group of male dancers (‘Ote’a Tane) or a group of female dancers (‘Ote’a Vahine), or sometimes male and female dancers (‘Ote’a Amui). It is inspired by old legends; the themes consist of a certain number of variations, the length of each one being determined by the beats of the To’ere. Sometimes the theme of the ‘ote’a is a contemporary one (celebration of a wedding, welcome of an important visitor, marking of an important event, etc.). The ‘Ote’a are usually performed in traditional costumes (A’ahu More).

For the male dancers

  • The basic step is the pa'oti.
  • Knees open and close as scissors. Knees are slightly bent.
  • Feet stay flat on ground with heels slightly raised. Feet must not been spread - apart.
  • The torso must remain straight (vertical).
  • Two styles of the pa'oti include Pa'oti to'ere (fast movement) and pa'oti pahu - (slow movement, with heels flat.
  • The" tu'e " (kick forward accompanied with move of fists)
  • The " horo " (running move) which can be use for the entrance and for the changes of the dancers places.
  • The " otaha ", combination of poses and skipping used especially to forward.


For the female dancers

  • Keep the knees slightly bent.
  • Keep the bust and shoulders motionless.
  • Keep your arms out stretched at shoulder level with only a slight bend to avoid a rigid look and present a more feminine appearance. Avoid dropping the elbows.
  • Feet are to be flat on the ground. Heels joined and the toes slightly separated to form a "V" shape.


Aparima
definition: 'apa (kiss) rima (hands), the kiss of hands.
The Aparima tells a story set to music and mimed by gracious gestures of the hands. The Aparima is a group dance inspired by scenes of the daily life; a boy meeting a girl, a vahine combing her hair, paddlers in an outrigger canoe, description of a beautiful site, etc.

Hivinau
The Hivinau is danced divertimento which ends most of the celebrations; it is lead by a dancer famous for his impromptus talents. TheTahitian word comes from the English language " heave now ", used by the sailors when they put themselves in a circle on the bridge of their boat to make their plans.

Pa’o’a
This dance is generally inspired by scenes of fishing or hunting; it is performed by a limited number of dancers.

Pata’uta’u
It is rythmed by the palms of the hands beating the ground and performed by a male and a female dancer. It has a wild and erotic flavor.

‘Ori Tahiti
The ‘Ori Tahiti, better known as the Tamure.

Ute
The Ute are impromptu familiar and satirical songs and are among the most popular Tahitian songs. an improvisor (Taata Pehepehe or Faateni) is accompanied by a small number of other singers.

Himene Tarava
These are choirs performed by an important number of singers (50 to 150) divided into 3 groups, each one being directed by a soloist.

Courtesy Tahiti Tourism Board

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