E Komo Mai means “Welcome” in the Hawaiian language, and welcome is exactly the spirit of this day. Each August, Kīkaha O Ke Kai opens the shoreline at Owen Beach to all of Tacoma for a free Hawaiian cultural festival on the waterfront. Hawaiian culture is immersive and sensory, built on relationships with one another and with the land and sea. E Komo Mai is our invitation to experience it firsthand, whether you are part of the Hawaiian diaspora or simply curious about the spirit of aloha.
Presented with support from Tacoma Creates, E Komo Mai brings hula, music, outrigger paddling, and hands-on cultural learning to Point Defiance Park for a day the whole family can enjoy.
What to Expect
Spend the day with us at Owen Beach and enjoy:
- Outrigger canoe paddling demonstrations, with short rides for community members alongside experienced paddlers
- Hula dancing performances
- Live ʻukulele and Hawaiian music
- Lei making and other hands-on cultural activities
- Poi demonstrations
- A history exhibit on Hawaiian canoe culture
- Local food vendors
- The warmth and aloha of our ʻohana (family)
Ride in an Outrigger Canoe
One of the most memorable parts of E Komo Mai is the chance to climb into a six-person outrigger canoe and paddle out alongside our crew. No experience is needed. Our paddlers guide every ride, making it a safe and welcoming way to feel the rhythm of the water and connect with a tradition that has carried Pacific Island communities for generations. It is a true entry point into Hawaiian canoe culture and the heart of what we do.
Event Details
- Event: E Komo Mai, a free Hawaiian cultural celebration
- Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
- Time: TBD
- Location: Owen Beach, Point Defiance Park, Tacoma, WA
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Hosted by: Kīkaha O Ke Kai, with support from Tacoma Creates
About Kīkaha O Ke Kai
Founded in 1996, Kīkaha O Ke Kai (“glide over the sea”) is Tacoma’s Hawaiian outrigger canoe club and a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. We are dedicated to perpetuating Hawaiian culture through outrigger paddling while building community, teamwork, and respect. More than a paddling club, we are cultural ambassadors, stewards of the Salish Sea, and a welcoming ʻohana for paddlers of all ages and abilities. E Komo Mai is our gift back to the community: a chance to share the culture that grounds everything we do.
Plan Your Visit
Owen Beach sits along the water inside Point Defiance Park, one of Tacoma’s most beloved destinations. Parking is available at the beach lot and throughout the park, so arriving early is the best way to secure a spot on busy summer weekends. Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and a chair or blanket for the performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E Komo Mai free to attend? Yes. E Komo Mai is free and open to the entire community. No ticket or registration is required to attend.
Where is E Komo Mai held? At Owen Beach in Point Defiance Park, Tacoma, Washington, right along the waterfront.
Can I ride in an outrigger canoe? Yes. Community members are invited to take a short, guided outrigger canoe ride with our experienced paddlers. No prior experience is needed.
Is the event family friendly? Absolutely. E Komo Mai is designed for all ages, with hula, music, lei making, canoe rides, and hands-on cultural activities for keiki (children) and adults alike.
Who hosts E Komo Mai? Kīkaha O Ke Kai, Tacoma’s Hawaiian outrigger canoe club, presents the event with support from Tacoma Creates.
Join Us
Mark your calendar for Sunday, August 23, 2026, and come share a day of aloha at Owen Beach. E komo mai: You are welcome here.