For students who can’t afford to go to the Pacific Islands, the unique culture and traditions of the region are only a short walk away.
The third annual Kava Night, sponsored by the People of the Pacific student group, celebrates the rich cultures of the Pacific Islands and the kava plant, the root of which is consumed during traditional rituals and public gatherings on many of the islands.
The kava root has been used socially, medicinally and ceremonially for centuries in the Pacific Islands and is known for its unique calming effects. Both chewed and consumed as a drink, kava is widely respected on the islands and acts as a sedative, while keeping the mind clear and relaxed.
“It has a lot of significance in the Pacific Islands’ history and folklore. It gives the consumer a mild-numbing sensation,” said Colin Kiley, one of the founders of People of the Pacific and a cultural anthropology student at the University.
The University Park gathering will allow guests to try kava and learn about how each island uses kava in their traditions, while musicians and performers entertain.
Craig Chee, a University student and ukulele player from O’ahu, will perform with his band, while dancers from Island Arts Hula and the People of the Pacific present Samoan and Tongan dances. There will also be a traditional Samoan fire knife dance, which is exactly what it sounds like: a person dancing with a knife wrapped in towels, lit on fire and spinning. The fire knife dance was a pre- and post-battle dance meant to intimidate the opposing warriors and also act as a sort of victory dance afterward.
Sam Matsuda, organizer of Kava Night and biology student at the University, is excited for the event and thinks others will enjoy themselves while learning about different cultures, as well.
“People will learn about the importance of kava and get to experience it. Then they can grab some food and chill on the lawn for some great performances,” Matsuda said.
In addition to experiencing kava and watching live performances, visitors of Saturday’s celebration will be able to try many traditional dishes, such as chicken kelaguen, pancit and lu from the Marianas Islands, Tonga, Samoa and other islands.
Kava Night promises to be an eye-opening and fun evening full of unique experiences, and the members of People of the Pacific hope many people will join them in celebrating their cultures.
“This is our big cultural event every year. This is our way to share our cultures and break some stereotypes people may have about our cultures and replace them with knowledge and understanding instead,” Kiley said.
Kava Night starts Saturday at 5:30 p.m. at University Park.  
[email protected]