Home in the Islands Kauaʻi

Anaina Hou Community Park and the Henry Kapono Foundation proudly present Home in the Islands Kauaʻi, a three-day celebration of Hawaiʻi’s music, culture, and community at the Porter Pavilion in Kīlauea. This collaboration unites Anaina Hou’s dedication to nurturing local culture with the Henry Kapono Foundation’s mission to uplift Hawaiʻi’s music industry through mentorship and creative opportunity. Together, they champion live music on Kauaʻi, inspire and empower the island’s next generation of artists, and celebrate the enduring spirit of aloha that connects us all.

Day 1 – Aloha Unplugged
An Intimate Music Gala Event
Thursday, November 13 | 5:30 PM–9:30 PM

Join us for an intimate evening of music, aloha, and community at the Aloha Unplugged Gala.

This exclusive dinner event features Jerry Santos, along with performances by Henry Kapono, Brother Noland, Kalena and Kala‘e Parish, and Alx Kawakami in a live showcase that celebrates the heart of music in Hawaiʻi. Guests will enjoy a gourmet buffet dinner, premium seating, and a night filled with aloha and connection. The evening will also include the Kaua‘i premiere of the short film Home in the Islands: Episode 1, a touching story featuring Jerry Santos and his journey through music and community.

Proceeds from the Gala raise vital support to keep live music thriving on Kaua‘i and launch the Kaua‘i On the Rise program—empowering the island’s next generation of artists through mentorship, opportunity, and collaboration.

Day 2 – From Song to Stage
A Master Class in Building a Career in Hawaiʻi's Music Industry
Friday, November 14 | 8:30 AM–2:00 PM

Join us for an inspiring day of workshops that empower Hawai‘i’s musicians, covering everything from songwriting and performance to the business of music. Designed for emerging artists and industry professionals, this hands-on program combines mentorship, education, and live performance opportunities. Guided by celebrated mentors Henry Kapono, Brother Noland, Kimié Miner, Kalena Parish, Kalaʻe Parish, Alx Kawakami, and Tavana participants will learn to refine their craft, build their careers, and connect their passion to purpose.

The afternoon concludes with an Open Mic Contest, where Master Class participants perform for mentor judges and compete for the chance to open the Henry Kapono & Friends concert on Saturday.

Day 2 – Evening Film Screening
Friday, November 14 | 6:00 PM–9:30 PM

Join us for an evening of film, conversation, and community celebrating the stories and people behind Hawai‘i’s vibrant music scene. The night begins with light music and refreshments, followed by a special screening of the Home in the Islands trailer, Jerry Santos Mini Documentary, and selections from the acclaimed Shaka film. After the screenings, enjoy a lively Talk Story panel with featured artists and filmmakers including Henry Kapono, Brother Noland, Kimié Miner, Kalena and Kalaʻe Parish, Tavana, Steve Sue (Producer of Shaka), and Home in the Islands producers Kevin and Franz. Moderated by Alx Kawakami, this intimate discussion explores the intersection of music, storytelling, and aloha in Hawai‘i today.

Day 3 – Concert featuring Henry Kapono & Friends
Saturday, November 15 | Gates Open 5:30 PM

Close out the Home in the Islands Kaua‘i weekend with an unforgettable evening of music and aloha. The Henry Kapono & Friends Concert brings together Hawai‘i’s legendary and award-winning artists for a night of celebration, collaboration, and community spirit under the stars at Anaina Hou.

The show features Henry Kapono, Jerry Santos, Brother Noland, Kalena Parish, Kalaʻe Parish, and Alx Kawakami, joined by special performances from the Master Class's Open Mic winners. The evening ends with a powerful jam session of friendship and aloha that embodies the heart of Hawai‘i’s music.