Education & Learning
Makaifest is more than entertainment—it's an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Hawaiian culture, environmental stewardship, and community connection through hands-on learning experiences led by local experts.
Learning for All Ages
Learning Categories
Cultural Education
Environmental Science
Environmental Action
Youth Development
Featured Workshops & Classes
Understanding the Moku System
Deep dive into the traditional Hawaiian land management system and how it applies to modern island life.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the six moku of Oahu and their unique characteristics
- Learn how traditional knowledge informs modern community planning
- Explore the connection between land management and cultural identity
Schedule:
Instructor:
Dr. Keoni Nakamura
Hawaiian Studies Professor, UH Manoa
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Traditional maps, interactive displays, take-home guides
Ocean Stewardship & Coral Restoration
Hands-on learning about coral reef ecosystems and community-based conservation efforts.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common Hawaiian coral species and threats
- Learn coral restoration techniques
- Understand individual actions that protect reefs
Schedule:
Instructor:
Marine Biologist Team
Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Microscopes, coral samples, reef-safe sunscreen samples
Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Learn traditional and modern sustainable farming techniques from local Hawaiian farmers.
Learning Objectives:
- Traditional Hawaiian agricultural methods
- Modern organic and permaculture techniques
- Starting your own sustainable garden
Schedule:
Instructor:
Kanaka Farmers Collective
Multi-generational Hawaiian Farmers
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Seeds, soil samples, planting containers, guidebooks
Traditional Crafts & Modern Sustainability
Learn traditional Hawaiian crafts while exploring how ancestral practices inform modern sustainability.
Learning Objectives:
- Traditional weaving and carving techniques
- Sustainable material harvesting practices
- Connection between cultural preservation and environmental stewardship
Schedule:
Instructor:
Aunty Leilani Pua & Team
Master Traditional Craftsperson
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Natural materials, tools, finished examples to take home
Climate Change & Island Communities
Understanding climate impacts on Hawaii and community-based adaptation strategies.
Learning Objectives:
- Climate change impacts specific to Hawaiian islands
- Community resilience and adaptation strategies
- Individual and collective action opportunities
Schedule:
Instructor:
Dr. Sarah Kim
Climate Scientist & Community Organizer
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Climate data visualizations, action planning worksheets
Youth Environmental Leadership
Empowering young people to become environmental leaders in their communities.
Learning Objectives:
- Leadership skills for environmental advocacy
- Project planning and community organizing
- Connecting with peer environmental networks
Schedule:
Instructor:
Hawaii Youth Climate Coalition
Student Environmental Leaders
Workshop Details
Included Materials:
Leadership guides, project planning templates, network contact lists
Additional Learning Programs
Moku Passport Program
Interactive scavenger hunt connecting visitors to all six moku through educational stations.
Keiki Learning Zone
Age-appropriate environmental and cultural education activities for children 5-12.
Producer Mentorship Program
Behind-the-scenes learning with local producers about sustainable business practices.
Cultural Immersion Experiences
Small-group experiences with cultural practitioners sharing traditional knowledge.
Our Educational Philosophy
Learning happens best when it connects to real life, community, and meaningful action. All our educational programs are designed to inspire ongoing engagement beyond the festival.
Community-Led
Local experts and practitioners share authentic knowledge and lived experience.
Action-Oriented
Every learning experience includes practical steps for positive community impact.
Culturally-Grounded
Hawaiian values and traditional knowledge inform all educational programming.
Ready to Learn?
Workshop registration opens with ticket sales. Most workshops are included with festival admission, while some specialized classes have small additional fees to cover materials.