Expore Culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu

Have you ever wanted to explore a culture that is centuries old? The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in Oahu, Hawaii, offers visitors the opportunity to do just that. With 1.3 million guests annually, it’s one of the most popular attractions on the island and continues to draw more people each year. It’s also an experience unlike any other – one that will leave lasting memories with anyone who visits. So if you’re looking for something unique and exciting, look no further than PCC.

At PCC, you can explore all aspects of traditional Polynesian culture, including language, dance, music, and art. You can even participate in canoe rides or outrigger sailing lessons. Numerous interactive exhibits featuring artifacts from different islands allow you to gain a deeper understanding of this ancient culture. Whether your interests lie in history or contemporary lifestyles, there’s something here for everyone.

But what makes PCC unique is its commitment to preserving the spirit and traditions of the Hawaiian people. From their warm hospitality to welcoming smiles, they strive to ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience at PCC – where adventure meets cultural discovery. Visit today – it won’t disappoint.

The History of the Polynesian Cultural Center

In the mid-1800s, missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints arrived in Tahiti and other islands. In 1865 they purchased a 6000-acre plantation in Laie and built an LDS temple there in 1915. With this came Christian teachings spread throughout all island groups in the 1920s.

Polynesian culture gained more popularity through the 1940s and 1950s. Hukilau is a traditional method of fishing used by the Polynesian people in the late 1940s. The dictionary defines Hukilau as “Hawaiian gathering to catch fish by casting a net and pulling it back.” Apart from casting nets to catch fish, the festival gave birth to beautiful songs and dance performances. These dances and songs were performed in public in Waikiki in the 1950s. They brought together native Hawaiians and visitors with their unique music and graceful movements, showcasing the rich culture of Polynesia.

The story of the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) began with a visit by David O. McKay in 1920; who had a dream to build a school of higher learning on the North Shore of Oahu and wanted a school near the LDS temple. This vision was fulfilled when David O. McKay became president of the LDS Church in 1950, started planning the school in 1951, and eventually founded BYU Hawaii in 1955.

In 1962, President David O. McKay of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gathered 100 missionary volunteers to help construct the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in the La’ie area. These missionaries worked together and built 39 structures on a 12-acre site. On October 12, 1963, this beautiful cultural center opened publicly with much anticipation, allowing guests an immersive experience within 6 authentic villages representing different cultures across Polynesia, including Hawaii, Fiji, Tonga, New Zealand, and Tahiti.

The idea of the PCC was also influenced by Matthew Cowley’s idea for a Polynesian village in Laie. As an early missionary to New Zealand, Cowley saw the importance of preserving and sharing traditional Polynesian culture through education. Unfortunately, Cowley didn’t live long enough to see his dream become a reality, as he died in 1953, and the PCC opened 10 years later.

Since the Polynesian Cultural Center’s opening in 1963 has seen many expansions and renovations. In 1975, the PCC relocated and enlarged its villages and built new buildings and settlements to improve their existing experience for visitors. The amphitheater was expanded several times to 2800 seats to accommodate larger audiences attending events such as evening shows with hula performances.

In the 1990s, night shows and IMAX films were introduced, making the PCC a popular destination for locals and tourists. Ali’i Luau was introduced in 1996, showcasing a royal feast of traditional Hawaiian dishes while providing entertainment featuring music, dance, chants, and stories that convey messages of aloha.

Today, PCC is still going strong after over fifty years since its opening day – it continues to be one of Oahu’s top attractions thanks to its unique blend of education and entertainment. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian history through interactive exhibits or participate in hands-on activities such as luau cooking classes or lei-making workshops. This family-friendly environment offers something for everyone, no matter what age you are, so come down today and dive into the vibrant world of Polynesian culture.

Planning Your Visit & Ticket Options

Are you ready to explore the Polynesian culture and have the time of your life? The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is the perfect place for adventure seekers, and many ticket options are available.

The Islands of Polynesia Package starts at $79.95. It offers a self-guided experience of 6 island villages with hands-on activities, canoe tours, a Laie & Temple Visitors Center Tour, a 3-day pass, and a free digital photo. Interact with friendly island villagers as they share entertaining presentations, enduring customs, and the vibrant traditions of their islands.

For those looking for a complete experience with even more exclusive activities included, the Super Ambassador package costs $269.95. It offers an immersive cultural experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a personal tour guide and reserved seating at all village presentations. Guests can participate in hands-on activities, take a canoe tour, enjoy a free smoothie, visit the Laie & Temple Visitors Center, and receive a free 3-day pass. The evening show includes a flower lei greeting at the luau and exclusive platinum-level seating for “HA: Breath of Life.”

Other packages are available on their websites, such as the gateway buffet package, the aliʻi lūʻau package, and a combination package of the Islands of Polynesia + Ha: Breath of Life.

Children aged 4-11 get 20% off, and you can save 10% by booking online in advance, but it doesn’t apply to all packages.

Nearby Hotels and Beach Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for nearby hotel accommodations to the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), look no further than the Courtyard by Marriott on Oahu’s North Shore, or check out Tiki Villas.

Accommodations offer comfortable rooms at different prices, and there are other a variety of amenities and vacation packages available depending on the hotel, resort, or vacation rental you choose.

One thing is for sure, an excellent place to stay will make your visit even more enjoyable, and these places provide everything you need within a short distance from the PPC.

Why You Should Visit The Polynesian Cultural Center Today

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is an incredible Oahu attraction, boasting over 50 different villages and activities. It’s the perfect place to explore the Polynesian culture and learn more about Hawaiian history. With over 1 million visitors each year, it’s no wonder why this cultural center has become one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions.

At the PCC, you can enjoy a variety of interactive experiences, such as canoe rides, and participate in hands-on demonstrations like spear throwing, poi pounding, hula dancing, and lei making. You can also watch ancient ceremonies performed by local experts in their traditional costumes. For those excited for entertainment, there’s the daily Ali’i Luau with its awe-inspiring fire knife dance show, or attend the world-famous ‘Polynesian Panorama.’ The performances are all made even more special with narration.

But that’s not all. Walking around the 42-acre campus, you’ll be surrounded by lush tropical gardens and koi ponds filled with colorful fish. You can also visit recreated villages representing various Polynesian cultures, including Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). Each village offers unique food items, crafts, and artifacts, so check them out here. Plus, don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs at the gift shops—they make fantastic reminders of your unforgettable experience at PCC.

Today, the Polynesian Cultural Center remains one of Oahu’s most visited attractions due to its authentic island atmosphere and cultural activities designed especially for travelers looking to explore the islands of Polynesia. With convenient ticket options ranging from the Islands Of Polynesia Package ($79.95) to Super Ambassador ($269.95), there is something suitable for everyone at this fantastic center. Children aged 4-11 even get 20% off their admission fee – be sure to book online before your visit if you want an additional 10% discount.

So if you’re looking for fun things to do on your next trip to Oahu, look no further than the iconic Polynesian Cultural Center. From learning new skills to watching thrilling shows—you won’t regret spending a day immersed in beautiful Hawaiian culture.

Frequetly Asked Questions