Makahiki Games
Traditional Hawaiian festival games celebrating the harvest season of Lono
About the Makahiki Season
Makahiki is the ancient Hawaiian festival season dedicated to the god Lono, traditionally running from mid-November through mid-February (roughly corresponding to the rainy season). During Makahiki, all warfare was kapu (forbidden) and communities across the Hawaiian Islands gathered for athletic competitions, feasting, hula performances, and spiritual ceremonies. It was a time of peace, renewal, and celebration of the harvest. The Makahiki games tested physical prowess, mental strategy, and team spirit, forming a cornerstone of Hawaiian cultural life. Taxes (hookupu) were collected for the ali'i, and the land itself was given time to rest and regenerate.
ʻUlu Maika
Stone Disc Rolling
Players roll polished stone discs between two stakes set in the ground, similar to bowling. The stones (ulu) are carefully shaped and weighted for precision rolling across a long, smooth course.
Cultural Significance
Ulu Maika required the creation of perfectly balanced stone discs, reflecting the Hawaiian mastery of stone-working. The courses were specially prepared and maintained, sometimes stretching hundreds of feet.
Haka Moa
Chicken Fight Balance Competition
Competitors stand on one leg with arms folded across the chest, hopping and trying to knock opponents off balance. The last person standing wins. Named after the fighting stance of roosters.
Cultural Significance
Haka Moa tested balance, agility, and quick reflexes -- skills valued in Hawaiian warriors and fishermen who needed sure footing on slippery rocks and canoe hulls.
Kōnane
Hawaiian Strategy Board Game
A two-player abstract strategy game played on a checkered board (papa) with black and white pebbles. Players capture opponent pieces by jumping, similar to draughts but with unique Hawaiian rules and deeper complexity.
Cultural Significance
Kōnane was played by aliʻi (chiefs) and commoners alike. Boards have been found carved into lava rock across the islands, some ancient playing surfaces still visible at historical sites today.
Heihei Waʻa
Canoe Racing
Teams race outrigger canoes (waʻa) across open water, testing paddling endurance, team coordination, and ocean knowledge. Races could span short sprints or long-distance courses between islands.
Cultural Significance
Canoe racing honored the voyaging heritage of Polynesian navigators who crossed thousands of miles of open Pacific Ocean. The waʻa is central to Hawaiian identity, culture, and spiritual practice.
Mokomoko
Hawaiian Boxing
A traditional martial contest where competitors face off in hand-to-hand combat during festival celebrations. Bouts were held in designated areas and followed established customary rules.
Cultural Significance
Mokomoko was a respected martial tradition with its own protocols and rituals. Skilled fighters were celebrated, and the practice connected to the broader warrior traditions of Polynesian cultures.
Uma
Arm Wrestling
A direct test of upper body strength between two competitors. Participants brace themselves and attempt to force their opponent's arm down, demonstrating raw power and technique.
Cultural Significance
Uma was a straightforward contest of strength that could be held anywhere -- on the beach, in the fields, or during large gatherings. It was accessible to all and a popular way to settle friendly rivalries.
Kukini
Foot Racing
Sprint and distance running competitions along beaches, through fields, or on established courses. Kukini were also trained runners who served as royal messengers between districts and islands.
Cultural Significance
The kukini (runners) held an honored role in Hawaiian society as swift messengers for the aliʻi. Their speed was essential for communication across the islands before modern transportation.
Pahee
Dart Sliding Game
Players slide or throw a long, smooth wooden dart (pahee) along a specially prepared grass course, competing for the greatest distance. The darts were carefully crafted from hard wood and polished smooth.
Cultural Significance
Pahee courses were carefully maintained community spaces, sometimes extending great lengths. The game required both strength and finesse, as the dart had to be released at the perfect angle to achieve maximum distance.
The Makahiki games are presented with respect for Native Hawaiian cultural heritage. SAGA works with Hawaiian cultural practitioners to ensure authentic representation of these traditions. Makahiki is a living cultural practice, not merely a historical curiosity.