Hawaii fest lives

It was a close call, but in the end, tradition won out. The 60-year-old Aloha Festivals parade on Oahu in Hawaii, almost got nixed because of a lack of funding. But a campaign rallied public support for the cause, raised money and saved the event. The parade is to start at 9 a.m. Sept. 13 at Ala Moana Beach Park in Waikiki. (Check the festival website for updates on the route and other information.) Other events planned for the Aloha Festivals, formerly known as Aloha Week, include the 2008 Royal Court Investiture (above), with traditional chanting and hula, on Sept. 11 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village; an opening ceremony at the Iolani Palace on Sept. 11; and on Sept. 12, at the Waikiki Hoolaulea, a huge block party with food, entertainment, crafts and lots of vendors. Info: (808) 589-1771; www.alohafestivals.com.

-- Susan Derby

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