Lau Kanaka No Hawaii was founded in 1981 by a handful of Hawaiians that landed in the Arizona desert, hungry for some Hawaiian food and Kanaka friendship. Twenty-five years later and still going strong, membership ranges around 275 families.

Lau Kanaka exists to perpetuate the rich cultures of Polynesia and spread Aloha Spirit throughout the Valley of the Sun.  The club offers monthly meetings filled with food and fun, as well as luaus, raffles, parties, and other special events. Members also receive a first-rate monthly newsletter.

The members of Lau Kanaka are involved in almost every facet of Polynesian culture, providing easy access to hula instructors, musicians, quilters, leimakers, healers, lomi lomi masseurs, outrigger canoe paddlers, historians, and the list goes on. Lau Kanaka has spawned several spinoff organizations in the area, such as the Hawaii Golf Club, Hawaiian Quilting Club, an ukulele band, and canoe clubs. Lau Kanaka is responsible for the birth of the Arizona Aloha Festival , which has gone on to become the largest Polynesian cultural festival on the mainland.

Membership

Our hui welcomes you. The club is open to everyone -- Pacific Islanders, Polynesians, people who have lived in the islands, and those who would enjoy food, friends, fun, music, and island culture. If you have not attended an event, we encourage you to do so, and become involved as an active member. The club offers something for everyone -- dancing, singing & playing music, crafts, cooking, eating, talking story, contests & games, keikis' activities, and much, much more.

For more information about joining us, please contact our membership manager.

Meetings

Once a month, usually on the second Saturday, we gather at a valley location for a few hours of food, music, dance, and club business. The location changes month-to-month: a public park, community center, or perhaps a member's home. Meetings cover club business, upcoming events, and keiki activities. Food is usually potluck (we love kau kau). Music is provided by the Lau Kanaka Ukulele Players, kanikapila among the many member musicians, and the occasional suprise guest. We encourage dancers to join in for hula. Meeting dates, times, and locations vary, so check out the Calendar of Events for the latest updates.

Education

In 1991, LKNH began a campaign to educate our children about Hawaiian culture and tradition. That year we sent our first child member to Summer Explorations Camp at Kamehameha School on O'ahu. To date, we have had the honor to assist 52 club member keiki in enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.

Kanaka of the Year

The logo for LKNH is Lulu, a smiling, hula-dancing Saguaro cactus. Her image appears on the trophy awarded to the Kanaka of the Year, presented annually at the Inaugural Ball to a dedicated and deserving member.