Redondo Beach Embraces Hawaiian Vibes with Slack Key Festival

The Southern California Slack Key Festival is set to infuse Redondo Beach with the relaxed vibes and welcoming culture of the Hawaiian Islands. This beloved community event returns, showcasing the distinct sounds of ki ho'alu, which means slack key guitar, characterized by a unique finger-picking style that emanates serene and soothing melodies.

Enthusiasts and newcomers alike are invited to the festival, happening on January 14th, to experience a sense of Hawaiian life through music. Guitarist Kamuela Kimokeo of the band Hi'ikua highlights the importance of this gathering, noting it's a celebration of love for Hawaii and its traditions, providing festival-goers a day of island immersion.

The 17th annual installment of this festival assembles an impressive roster of slack key guitarists, promising an expansive showcase of the genre's diversity. Attendees will also enjoy hula performances and can browse a Hawaiian-themed market to complete the experience.

According to Mitch Chang, the festival's organizer and producer, the event's purpose is to present a broad representation of slack key sounds and Hawaiian music in general, which will be on full display with both veteran and new artists hitting the stage.

Notable first-time appearances at this year's festival include Kulāiw, a trio recently recognized with several prestigious Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, including Album of the Year. They'll be joined by slack key guitarist Sean Parks, along with singer-songwriter Leokane Pryor, and Namaka Cosma, a rising female artist in the slack key community and a graduate from the Institute of Hawaiian Music.

Returning performers boast celebrated figures such as Jerry Santos, Jeff Peterson, Jim "Kimo" West, and the trio Hi'ikua, each bringing their own brand of storytelling and musical homage to Hawaiian culture.

Experience the Festival

The festival's Hawaiian market opens at 11 a.m, with music performances beginning at 2 p.m. It takes place at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center on Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Tickets range from budget-friendly options to premium experiences, accommodating all levels of interest and accessibility.

Hawaiian, music, festival