The Tahitian Treasures Pareo (Pāreu) Tying Activity—rooted at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Hukilau Marketplace in Lāʻie, Hawaii—is an interactive cultural workshop where guests learn how a single piece of vibrant Polynesian fabric can be transformed into dozens of versatile garments.
What Guests Will See, Do, and Learn:
1. Hand-Dyed Textiles: An array of brightly colored, hand-dyed Tahitian cotton and rayon pareos. Live Artisanship: Demonstrations of traditional wrapping techniques by native Polynesian cultural practitioners. Cultural Adornments: Traditional carved coconut fasteners, and mother-of-pearl accents used to secure the garments.
2. What Guests Will Do: Hands-on Wrapping Practice: Try on a pareo and stand with workshop guide to practice tying various styles step-by-step. Learn practical adjustments on your own body to transform one cloth from casual beachwear into formal island evening wear. Practice using buckles and methods that stay in place without pins.
3. What Guests Will Learn
History of the Pāreu: How the transition from traditional barkcloth (tapa) to imported cotton in the 19th century created modern Tahitian wearable art.
Meet at Tahitian Treasures kiosk next to the gazebo in the middle of the Hukilau Marketplace inside the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii.
Meet at Tahitian Treasures kiosk next to the gazebo in the middle of the Hukilau Marketplace inside the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii.
