Lei Wili

INFORMATION

SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026  |   12PM - 3PM 

PAʻI ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER @ KAKAʻAKO

IN-PERSON ONLY

ABOUT PAPA

Join us for a unique and culturally rich Lei Wili Workshop led by renowned Hawaiian musician and cultural practitioner Kuana Torres Kahele. This immersive in-person experience invites participants to learn the traditional Hawaiian art of lei wili—a method of wrapping and binding natural materials to create beautiful lei.

Perfect for beginners and those looking to deepen their connection to Hawaiian culture, this workshop offers a peaceful, creative space to learn a cherished tradition from the comfort of your home. 

All materials and instruction is included in the workshop cost. Space is very limited.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Kuana Torres Kahele is a renowned Hawaiian musician, vocalist, composer, dancer, and educator from Hilo, known for blending traditional Hawaiian music with modern sounds, performing in Hawaiian, and starring as the voice of Uku in Disney Pixar's Lava. Co-founding Nā Palapalai, he gained fame before launching a successful solo career, creating albums like his acclaimed "Music for the Hawaiian Islands" series and teaching Hawaiian culture worldwide. 

Outside of Hawaiian music, Kuana also teaches hula and lei making. Kuana has hālau on Oʻahu, and in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka). With lei making, Kuana makes all styles of lei, from fresh flowers to pūpū Niʻihau (Niʻihau shells). Kuana teaches lei wili, lei haku, lei pūpū, lei kui, and lei hīpuʻu to workshop attendees.