Summer solstice

Grand Opening Celebration

The Akamu Institute

School of Healing & Hawaiian Cultural Studies

Join us as we celebrate the Summer Solstice and the official launch of The Akamu Institute, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to healing education, Hawaiian cultural preservation, and community wellness.

Saturday, June 20, 2026

1-4:30pm

Hale Halawai ‘ohana O Hanalei

Join the Celebration 
Event Schedule

Afternoon Schedule

❋ 1:00 PM

Doors Open • Check-In • Vendor Village

❋ 1:45 PM

Hula/Hawaiian Cultural Story

❋ 2:15 PM

Tea Ceremony with local organic farm

❋ 3:00 PM-4:30PM

Options for Yoga / Massage / Sound Healing Journey / Healing 

❋ 1:30 PM

Opening Hawaiian Blessing & Welcome

What to Expect

A New Beginning

The Summer Solstice marks a time of light, growth, and renewal. It is a moment to honor where we have been, celebrate where we are, and plant seeds for what is yet to come.

We invite you to join us for a special afternoon as we celebrate the official launch of The Akamu Institute — School of Healing & Hawaiian Cultural Studies.

The Akamu Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to healing education, Hawaiian cultural preservation, and community wellness. Our vision is to create opportunities for learning, connection, cultural stewardship, and personal transformation while honoring the wisdom of those who came before us.

Together we will gather in community to experience yoga, Hawaiian cultural teachings, tea ceremony, sound healing, live music, and meaningful connection in the spirit of aloha.

This celebration is more than an event. It is the beginning of a shared vision — one that supports future educational programs, cultural initiatives, scholarships, community gatherings, and spaces where healing and learning can flourish for generations to come.

❋ Intentional Structure

We blend guided moments, open exploration, and space to reflect—so the experience feels both focused and fluid.

❋ Collaborative Energy

Connection is a core part of the process. You’ll learn just as much from the group as from the content itself.

❋ Expert Facilitation

Led by experienced guides who know how to hold space, encourage participation, and keep things moving with purpose.

❋ A Supportive Space

Our events prioritize comfort, safety, and respect—so you can show up as you are and fully engage in the process.

Our Venue Partner

Hale Halawai ‘ohana o Hanalei

We are honored to gather at Hale Halawai ‘Ohana O Hanalei, a beloved community gathering place on Kauaʻi’s North Shore.

Founded in 1993, Hale Halawai became Hawaiʻi’s first privately funded community center, created by local residents who recognized the need for a place where people could come together in connection, learning, and service. Its name translates to “A house for the coming together of the extended family of Hanalei.”

For more than three decades, Hale Halawai has served as a center for cultural education, community engagement, Hawaiian programs, and events that perpetuate the values of aloha and strengthen our community.

As The Akamu Institute begins its own journey of healing education, cultural preservation, and community wellness, there is no more fitting place to gather than this sacred and welcoming space.

We are deeply grateful to Hale Halawai ’Ohana O Hanalei for stewarding this legacy and opening its doors to our community.

E Komo Mai.

Meet the Founder

Victoria Mcdonald

Victoria McDonald is the founder of The Akamu Institute and Akamu Wellness. For more than a decade, she has guided individuals through yoga, sound healing, transformational coaching, and wellness experiences rooted in the healing wisdom of Hawaiʻi.

Her vision for The Akamu Institute is to create a gathering place where healing education, Hawaiian cultural studies, community wellness, and personal transformation can flourish for future generations.

The Summer Solstice Grand Opening Celebration marks the beginning of that vision.

Parking

Parking & arrival

Parking & Arrival

Please arrive 15–20 minutes early.

A parking attendant will be onsite to assist with parking. We kindly ask that you kōkua by following all parking directions and respecting the guidance provided by our attendants.

Hale Halawai is a cherished community gathering space, and we are grateful for the privilege of gathering there. Your cooperation helps us honor our hosts, support our neighbors, and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

What to Bring:

• Water bottle

• Comfortable clothing & Pareo for hula

• Yoga mat or beach towel

• Sun protection

• An open heart