Weaving Aloha: Make a Traditional Lei Poʻo in Hilo

HILO WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE

Weaving Aloha: Make a Traditional Lei Poʻo in Hilo

A 1 hour 45 minute, hands-on workshop in Hilo teaching the traditional wili method to create a lei poʻo; this guide explains what to expect, what’s provided, and how the session flows.

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Weaving Aloha: Make a Traditional Lei Poʻo in Hilo.

Duration
1 Hour 45 Min
Location
Hilo
Operator
Actions of Aloha
Category
Workshop
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

In Hilo, Actions of Aloha presents a guided, hands-on workshop led by Lei Studio Hawaiʻi and Kaleipuʻupuʻu where participants learn the foundations of lei construction using the traditional wili method and fresh, seasonal foliage to create a lei poʻo, kupeʻe, or hairpiece that they can wear and keep.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE TECHNIQUE

Traditional wili weaving

The workshop focuses on the traditional wili method of lei construction, with guided instruction so participants learn foundational weaving techniques as they make their piece.

THE MATERIALS

Fresh, seasonal foliage

Participants work with fresh, seasonal foliage supplied during the session, using living plant material to craft a meaningful accessory rooted in local practice.

THE OUTCOME

A wearable expression of aloha

Attendees leave with a finished lei poʻo, kupeʻe, or hairpiece—an intentionally made item to wear or gift that embodies the workshop’s hands-on, cultural focus.

What the day feels like

What the session feels like

The experience is a focused, guided craft session: instructors demonstrate the wili technique, participants handle fresh foliage and practice under direction, and everyone departs with a personally made lei. The tone blends practical instruction with the aloha spirit of shared making.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this workshop suits—and what’s unclear from the provided facts.

1
Cultural and craft learnersWell suited to travelers seeking hands-on instruction in traditional lei techniques; the provided facts emphasize guided learning and making your own piece.
2
Festival attendeesA natural fit for those wanting a personal lei to wear at events such as Merrie Monarch celebrations, as the workshop results in a wearable lei poʻo or kupeʻe.
3
Beginners to lei makingThis workshop is presented as instructional and hands-on, making it appropriate for participants with little to no prior experience in lei construction.
4
Travelers needing accessibility detailsThe provided facts do not specify participant limits, age ranges, or other access restrictions; operators should be consulted directly for accommodation needs.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

The workshop runs for 1 hour 45 minutes.

What to Bring

All materials and instruction are included, so no special supplies are required from participants.

Presenters & operator

Presented by Hale Kua: Lei Studio Hawaiʻi + Kaleipuʻupuʻu and operated through Actions of Aloha in Hilo.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the workshop?

The session is 1 hour 45 minutes long.

What will I make during the workshop?

Participants create a lei poʻo, kupeʻe (or equivalent hairpiece), working with fresh, seasonal foliage and the traditional wili method.

Are materials and instruction provided?

Yes—materials and instruction are included as part of the workshop.

Who leads the workshop?

The workshop is presented by Hale Kua: Lei Studio Hawaiʻi + Kaleipuʻupuʻu and offered through Actions of Aloha.

Where is the workshop held?

The workshop takes place in Hilo, Hawaii.

Can I make a lei to wear for Merrie Monarch or similar events?

Yes—the workshop invites participants to create a lei you can wear with intention for events such as Merrie Monarch.