Home : About Oahu : People & Culture

The people of Hawai‘i are known throughout the world for their spirit of Aloha. This spirit can only be described as an inner warmth; a feeling of love, respect and hospitality. This spirit is in the very soul of its ancient people. Today, the people of Hawaii work to preserve not only the language, food, music and dance that the ancient Hawaiians brought to the islands but the traditions of Aloha, a culture of generosity; a culture of family. The Island of O‘ahu is made up of many ethnic communities and although each group celebrates the differences that make each special and unique through cultural festivals and activities, there is an underlying local culture that has adopted this spirit of Aloha that resonates through each resident.

The Island of O‘ahu is a true melting pot of diverse cultures that have blended and transformed its traditions, festivals and foods. As agriculture boomed in the late 19th century, workers from China, Japan, Russia, Korea, Puerto Rico, Portugal, and the Philippines were brought to the islands to work and live on the sugar plantations. Today, you can easily appreciate this blend of cultures by enjoying the local food or attending a festival during your stay. To learn more about Hawaii’s multicultural roots and plantation days, you can take an educational tour through Hawaii Plantation Village.