A sea of “Rohnert Park Warriors” swag filled the City Center Drive courtyard and parking lot as families came to support the 12th annual Pacific Islander Festival on Sunday morning, August 24, in Rohnert Park.
The festival is thrown in an effort to fundraise for the Warriors – a local league for youth football and cheer in the North Bay.
The stage was adorned on either side with a tower of palm leaves, roses, orchids and hydrangeas in various hues of creams and whites. The Warriors cheer team took to center stage to kick the festival off. The Maile Swing Band was next and they serenaded a sizable crowd as more festival goers arrived and settled into various nooks within the festival.
The BBQ chicken and steak was well grilled and the sapa suey (Samoan chop suey) and rice was a perfect complement to the meat. Anthony, a first time attendee said, “the lunch plate was quickly assembled and absolutely delicious.” He also got some panikeke which are Samoan pancakes that “resemble an old fashioned donut in taste but in donut hole form,” he said.
It was nearly 90 degrees out and the rainbow shaved ice with a “snow cap” was a great remedy for the heat. The “snow cap” was condensed milk drizzled lightly on top of the shaved ice. Doing so freezes the condensed milk slightly for a delightful surprise with each bite.
The Taimalietane Islands of Polynesia (T.I.O.P) dance group also performed. According to their Facebook page, T.I.O.P “offers specialized classes in dance from the islands of Samoa, Hawaii, Tahiti, Maori and more.” Each dance was unique in speed and style, while the dancers’ outfits also varied from intricately colored pieces and headdresses to straw hats and dark jumpers. Dancers ranged from young hopefuls to seasoned professionals with the age groups spanning across generations.
Uncle Charlie, a regular vendor at the festival reminisced over the festival’s history. “I love talking to people. I see new faces and old – I love making new friends because I’m only here once a year,” he said. From cookies to decorative fanny packs, his stall had a myriad of offerings for each festival attendee.
The Pacific Islander Festival celebrates its multifaceted culture in spectacular fashion. From the delicious food and various vendors to the music and dancing, there is something for each person to enjoy.
