Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Aloha Hawaii International, Honolulu is set to host the much-anticipated ʻĀina Music Festival on January 23-24, 2026, at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center. This two-day celebration of music, culture, and environmental awareness promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing two world-class international artists alongside Hawaiʻi’s local youth talent. Set in the Pikake Room of the Blaisdell Arena, the festival will feature an exciting lineup of evening concerts, engaging workshops, and inspiring mele sessions. Audiences of all ages are invited to join in this remarkable event that emphasizes the profound connection between music, community, the land, and the environment.
Key Highlights of the ʻĀina Music Festival:
o Outstanding Featured Artists: The festival will be headlined by renowned performers, including Maestro Diego Carneiro, an acclaimed Brazilian cellist, peace fellow, and humanitarian, and guitarist David LaMotte, an award-winning singer-songwriter from North Carolina, celebrated for his evocative storytelling TEDx Talks, and musicianship.
o Purpose and Themes: Rooted in principles of peace, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship, the festival aims to uplift audiences through music while fostering a sense of community and awareness.
Festival Schedule:
o Workshops: Saturday morning, participants can engage in hands-on musical workshops led by the festival artists, including a specially designed session for youth musicians with Maestro Carneiro and a songwriting workshop with David LaMotte. These workshops will focus on ensemble skills, musical interpretation, and collaborative performance.
o Evening Concerts:
o Friday, January 23, 2026: Concert with Diego Carneiro (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) followed by a reception (9:00 PM – 10:00 PM) –
o Saturday, January 24, 2026: Concert with David LaMotte (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) followed by a reception (9:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
o Tickets: Tickets are priced at $35 per concert and can be purchased through https://www.eventleaf.com/e/ainamusicfest26 or ainamusicfestival.com
o Pre-registration is required for workshops, which are free of charge.