World’s Largest Ukulele Festival, world record in Waikiki, Hawaii

“The ukulele is Hawaii’s best-loved musical instrument, so it makes sense that Ukulele Festival Hawaii is the world’s largest, attracting enthusiasts from as far away as Italy and Thailand,” the
Hawaiian Airlines says.

“Held every July at Kapiolani Park just outside Waikiki, the event includes free giveaways, quick mini-lessons, manufacturers’ exhibits and, of course: nonstop performances.

“Jack Johnson, Jake Shimabukuro and Raiatea Helm have all graced the stage. But they may have a tough time out-strumming the 700+ school-age ukulele students who eagerly show off their skills.”

“Roy and Kathy Sakuma established Ukulele Festival Hawaii to continue their life’s work of preserving interest in the ukulele and spreading the joy of the ukulele,” the
official website says.



“It’s roots go back to 1971 when Roy Sakuma was a groundskeeper at Kapiolani Park with bigger dreams. He envisioned a free concert in the park to showcase and celebrate the joy and virtuosity of the ukulele. It was the world’s first and original ukulele festival. Today, Hawaii’s annual Ukulele Festival is the largest international ukulele festival of its kind in the world..

“Ukulele Festival Hawaii produces, promotes and arranges ukulele festivals free to the public, encourages interest in Hawaii’s arts and culture through education and scholarships, and promotes local and international interest in the ukulele as an instrument of virtuoso quality.”

“The Annual Ukulele Festival was held each July in Hawaii from 1971 to 2022. It was founded in 1971 by Roy Sakuma with the support of the Waikiki Department of Parks. The event drew large crowds to listen to free concerts by both amateur and top ukulele musicians.

“In 1970, Roy Sakuma was working as a groundskeeper for the Waikiki Department of Parks. At lunch one day, Sakuma and his colleagues envisioned an ukulele concert. With the support of his supervisor, Sakuma worked with the department and the Hawaii International Ukulele Club to put together the first festival at the Kapiolani Park Bandstand in Waikiki in 1971.

“Ukulele Festival Hawaii is a non-profit charitable organization established in 2004 by Roy and Kathy Sakuma. The organization’s mission is to bring laughter, love and hope to children and adults throughout Hawaii and the world through the music of the ukulele. Ukulele Festival Hawaii produces, promotes and arranges ukulele festivals free to the public, encourages interest in Hawaii’s arts and culture through education and scholarships, and promotes local and international interest in the ukulele as an instrument of virtuoso quality. The Ukulele Festival, the first and original ‘ukulele festival begun in 1971, is held every July in Kapiolani Park, O‘ahu.”   (Wikipedia)

“The Ukulele Festival Hawaii is a much-anticipated annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and the enchanting sound of the ukulele. This music festival, held in the beautiful islands of Hawaii, brings together ukulele enthusiasts from all around the world. From renowned ukulele players to up-and-coming talents, this festival showcases the versatility and the vibrant spirit of this small but mighty instrument,” the
Facts.net says.

“The Ukulele Festival Hawaii offers a unique experience where attendees can immerse themselves in the soothing melodies and infectious rhythms of the ukulele. Beyond the lively performances, the festival also provides an opportunity for all ages to participate in workshops, jam sessions, and even learn how to play the ukulele from the masters themselves. With its breathtaking location, distinctive atmosphere, and a lineup of exceptional artists, the Ukulele Festival Hawaii has become a cherished tradition that captures the hearts of both locals and visitors alike.

“The festival is dedicated to celebrating the ukulele and promoting its unique cultural significance in Hawaii. It brings together musicians, enthusiasts, and fans from all over the globe to enjoy the enchanting sounds of this iconic instrument.”

“The ukulele, a small four-stringed instrument, has become synonymous with the spirit of aloha and the laid-back lifestyle of the islands. The Hawaii Ukulele Festival, an annual celebration of the instrument’s history, culture, and enchanting melodies is a beloved annual event that brings together ukulele enthusiasts from all over the world,” the
Honolulu Vibes says.

“Held in Honolulu, Hawaii, the festival features a wide variety of performances, workshops, and educational opportunities but you don’t need to be a player to enjoy the festival. It’s a great opportunity to spread a blanket in the shade and just enjoy some fantastic music in the park.

“Over the years, the festival gained momentum, drawing ukulele enthusiasts, performers, and tourists from around the world. The festival provided a platform for both established musicians and upcoming talents to share their love for the instrument, further contributing to the ukulele’s global appeal. The festival is now the largest international ukulele festival of its kind bringing people together in Kapiolani Park to celebrate the ukulele.”

“When one thinks of Hawaiian music, they likely start hearing ukulele music in their head. After all, the ukulele originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian adaptation of the Portuguese machete, a small guitar-like instrument introduced to the islands by immigrants. In celebration of Hawaii’s favorite instrument, the annual Ukulele Festival is one of our favorite summer traditions,” the
Only In Your State says.

“There’s truly no better way to spend a summer day than soaking up the sunshine or basking in the shade of the park’s ironwood and monkeypod trees while listening to upbeat, infectious ukulele music performed by professionals and keiki alike.

“Guest artists from around the world, including ukulele virtuosos, internationally-known musicians, and local celebrities…as well as a ukulele orchestra of more than 800 students, mostly children, will take the stage during this dreamy one-day festival.”

“Held at Kapiʻolani Park Bandstand in Waikīkī, this now cherished Hawaiʻi summer tradition has become the largest ʻukulele festival of its kind in the entire world, attracting crowds numbering in the thousands to its grassy lawns in order to enjoy musical entertainment from local ʻukulele masters as well as guest artists from across the globe,” the
Hawaii.com says.

“A special highlight each year is the ʻukulele orchestra, which consists of more than 800 student participants, the majority of which are keiki — a testament of the success of Roy’s dream to foster appreciation and excitement about the ʻukulele within the next generation.

“Family friendly and loads of fun, this festival is so much more than just a free outdoor concert, it’s truly a chance to commune with one another, brought together by the beauty of the music of the ʻukulele amid the gorgeous backdrop of Oʻahu’s iconic Diamond Head. So come on and bring your best smile and listening ears — heck, even bring your own ʻukulele to jam on the lawn, too — we’ll see you there!”