‘Go Native’ Joins PCC’s Lineup

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Polynesian Cultural Center offers guests the chance to “Go Native!” with eight new activities recently added to the center’s popular daytime acts.

“We are very excited to offer our guests a new lineup of fun and interactive activities that the whole family can enjoy, and there’s something for everyone,” said Delsa Moe, Cultural Presentations director.

Scheduled this month is a coconut tree-climbing demonstration that shows folks how to climb up a tree barefoot “Samoan-style.” Led by trained PCC staff, the activity is safe for all skill levels. (A safety harness is provided.)

Also set to premiere later in the year are a Te Here (forever) wedding celebration in June; guided canoe paddling around PCC’s lagoon in a four-person outrigger canoe in July; and spear-throwing games in August.

“It’s one thing to watch a demonstration,” Moe said, “but actually participating in the activities will give visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation for Polynesian culture.”

A hands-on umu-making workshop also starts at noon each day in the tunoa (Samoan kitchen), where visitors participate in the process of pusaga o le umu (building the umu) and preparing and cooking - and eventually eating - traditional foods such as talo (taro), ulu (breadfuit), palusami (young taro leaves cooking in season coconut cream) and faiai eleni (canned mackerel cooked in seasoned coconut milk).

“The umu-making activity in particular provides a very unique opportunity for visiting families to actively participate in traditional Samoan cooking techniques,” Moe noted. “At the end of the day, it’s our hope that they take these special memories and experiences back home to share with their ohana.”

For more information on prices, availability or to make reservations for an event, visit polynesian.com or call the PCC ticket office at 293-3333.