Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, Honolulu County, Hawaii, 96762
Photo: License: Public Domain
The Polynesian Cultural Center was opened in 1963 as a way to provide employment and scholarships for students at BYU-Hawaii and to preserve the cultures of Polynesia. The PCC is one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in Hawaii.
Dedicated on October 12, 1963, the PCC occupies 42 acres (17 ha) which is owned by nearby Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Although it is largely a commercial venture, PCC profits fund various scholarship programs at BYU-Hawaii.
The center has its roots in 1940s and 1950s hukilau and luau beach gatherings held to earn money to rebuild a local chapel belonging to the LDS Church, which had been destroyed in a fire.
"The Hukilau Song," made famous by Alfred Apaka, was written following the composer and song's original singer, Jack Owens's visit to Lā'i.e.'s hukilau.
Polynesian Cultural Center Categories
-
The Polynesian Cultural Center hosts many special events, highlighting Hawaiian, Samoan, Tahitian and Māori cultures along with a Christmas festival and a Haunted Lagoon.
-
Within eight simulated tropical villages in the Polynesian Cultural Center, performers demonstrate various arts and crafts from throughout Polynesia. Visitors may participate in a luʻau.
