Hawaii Volcanoes National Park continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture, After Dark in the Park talks and other programs throughout December. In addition, everyone is invited to lend a hand to save native rain forest through the park’s volunteer stewardship opportunities.
Many of the park’s guided hikes and programs, such as “Life on the Edge,” treks to Pu‘uloa petroglyphs, “How It All Started” and more, continue at no charge. Check the park’s online calendar of events (https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/calendar.htm), and look for program flyers posted after 9 a.m. on the bulletin board at Kilauea Visitor Center.
The park is open 24 hours a day. On Dec. 25, Christmas Day, and Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve, Kilauea Visitor Center will close early at 2 p.m. but the park will remain open. Park programs are free, but entrance fees apply. Some programs are co-sponsored by Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hawaii Pacific Parks Association.
Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:
A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar
Walk back to 1912, and meet the founder of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar, at the edge of Kilauea Volcano. Dressed in period costume, Ka‘u actor-director Dick Hershberger brings the renowned geologist to life. Jaggar will take you on a tour of his tiny lab located below the Volcano House to see original seismograph equipment and other early instruments. You’ll learn what motivated Jaggar to dedicate his life to the study of Hawaiian volcanoes, and how his work helps save lives today. Space is limited; pick up your free ticket at the Kilauea Visitor Center’s front desk. Supported by the Kilauea Drama Entertainment Network.
When: Noon and 2 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 18. Each performance is about an hour.
Where: Meet at the Kilauea Visitor Center
All About Anchialine Pools
Dena Sedar of Hawaii State Parks will present the wonderful world of anchialine pools — enclosed water bodies or ponds with an underground connection to the ocean. Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. where anchialine pools are found, and are home to endemic ‘opae‘ula, tiny red pond shrimp that help anchialine ecosystems thrive. Part of the After Dark in the Park series.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 4
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium
Stewardship of Kipukapuaulu
Help remove troublesome plants at Kipukapuaulu, home to an astonishing diversity of native forest and understory plants. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat and water. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting permanently stained from morning glory sap. Be prepared for cool and wet or hot and sunny weather. New volunteer? Contact Marilyn Nicholson at nickem@hawaii.rr.com for more information.
When: 9:30 a.m. every Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27
Where: Meet at the Kipukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Road, off Highway 11 in the park.
Stewardship at the Summit
Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a World Heritage Site. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Younger than 18? Parental or guardian accompaniment or written consent is required. Visit www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm for additional planning details.
When: 8:45 a.m. Dec. 7, 15 and 22
Where: Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kilauea Visitor Center
He Inoa No Hi‘iakaikapoliopele
Many of us are familiar with Hi‘iakaikapoliopele and her role as Pele’s favorite younger sister. But who are the other Hi‘iaka, and what are their roles in the Pele ohana? Why is it important that Pele hula end with the line “He Inoa No Hi‘iakaikapoliopele?” Join us for a discussion with Ku‘ulei Kanahele of the Edith Kanaka‘ole Foundation on Hi‘iaka and her role in volcanism. Part of the After Dark in the Park series.
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 11
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium
Huewai Demonstration
Water-carrying gourds were used by most ancient civilizations. Hawaiians decorated their ipu (gourds) with elaborate designs. Join Momi Greene as she shares her knowledge of cultivating, carving and dyeing ipu using endemic, indigenous or Hawaiian-introduced plants. Part of ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops.
When: 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 12
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center lanai
How to Make Haupia
One of the most popular desserts traditionally made in Hawaii is haupia. Made from the pia root (arrowroot) and mixed with coconut milk or cream, then steamed, boiled or baked into a pudding, haupia is a popular and authentic cultural dessert. Part of ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops.
When: 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 26
Where: Kilauea Visitor Center lānai