We love celebrating the good things in life, and nothing beats kicking off a brand new school year together. Our annual Back-to-School Party is here, and this year we’re bringing a Hawaiian twist! The Spirit of the Pacific Cultural Society will join us to share the spirit of aloha through music, movement, and hands-on cultural fun.

We know all the students will be hungry after school, so be sure to pre-order your BBQ now through MunchaLunch. After a hiatus, we’re happy to welcome M&M Food Market back to grill up the kids’ favourite juicy burgers and sizzling hot dogs. With after-school entertainment and dinner ready to go, it’s the easiest and most fun way to wrap up the week with the whole family.

Here’s what’s waiting for you:

Booth 1: Hula Dance Lessons

• Pick up the basic steps of hula, perfect for kids and parents alike
• Try a short routine taught by a hālau (hula school) teacher
• Come back later to perform what you’ve learned alongside the pros!

Booth 2: Arts & Crafts

• Make a colourful paper-flower lei
• Create kupe‘e (ankle and wrist bracelets)
• Explore displays and talks on:
  • The history of lei making
  • The cultural meaning behind wearing a lei

Booth 3: Trivia & Games

• Test your knowledge with interactive trivia about:
  • Hawaiian kings and queens
  • Hula traditions
  • Ancient navigation techniques
  • Basic Hawaiian language
• Play a few traditional Hawaiian games

Booth 4: Traditional Goods & Tastes

• Sample treats like creamy haupia
• Discover the stories and traditions behind these favourites

This isn’t just another after-school event. It’s a chance for kids to move, play, create, and taste their way through an afternoon packed with fun. This is one of those “circle it in red on the calendar” moments. The memories made here are the kind your kids will talk about for weeks, so you won’t want to be the one who missed it!

Make sure to pre-order your BBQ dinner through MunchaLunch so you don’t have to worry about what’s for dinner. A limited number of burgers and hot dogs will be available on site, but once they’re gone, they’re gone. Lock yours in now, then show up ready to hula, craft, play, and feast.

BACK TO SCHOOL ONLY COMES ONCE A YEAR. LET’S MAKE THIS KICK-OFF A CELEBRATION TO REMEMBER!

Marked your calendar and placed your order, but still buzzing with energy? Put it to good use in one of our volunteer spots. Events like these only happen when parents jump in to help, and the more hands we have, the smoother (and more fun) the afternoon will be.