Gilliom signs on for Waiki'i fest

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

The Waiki'i Music Festival will be staged Father's Day weekend, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 14 and 15 at Waiki'i Ranch's upcountry polo grounds on the Big Island.

Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom and Raiatea Helm are among the singers making their inaugural appearances at the two-day festival.

The tentative lineup of talent, by days:

Saturday: Owana Salazar, Kamaka'iwa Kanaka'ole, Ku'uipo Kumukahi, 'Ale'a, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Sean Na'auao. A Saturday Dance Party, closing the event, features Marty Dread, Jamin "The Chief Ragga" Wong, and O-shen.

Sunday: Jerry Santos & Olomana, with Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett and his halau; Kainani Kahaunaele; Na Palapalai; the Makaha Sons with Raiatea Helm; Pacific Blu; Sudden Rush; Willie K; and Three Plus.

The music is augmented by an array of food booths offering local grinds, plus arts and crafts vendors showcasing, for the most part, native Hawaiian goods. Keiki games are also on tap both days.

The event is a presentation of Traditions Hawai'i, with part of the proceeds supporting Punana Leo O Waimea Hawaiian Language Immersion Pre-school and the Hawai'i High School Rodeo Association.

Tickets: $25 ($20 in advance), free for keiki under 12. On sale at A'ama Surf and Sport in Kailua, Kona; Border's Music and Books in Hilo and Kona; Big Island Surf Shops in Hilo, Kona and Kamuela; Byrds' Audio in Kamuela; CD Wizard in Hilo; Cook's Discoveries in Kamuela; Exclusive Designs in Waikoloa; Mele Kai Music in Kona; MJS Music in Hilo; Pahoa Cash and Carry in Pahoa; The Gallery at Bamboo in Kohala; Taro Patch Gifts in Honoka'a; and all KTA Super Store locations on the Big Island

Information: (808) 883-2077, www.waikiimusic.com.