Teuila Festival - ESOL

 Teuila Festival

Since it was established in 1991, Samoa's Teuila Festival has grown to become one of Samoa's most celebrated annual events and one of the South Pacific's biggest cultural festivals. The festival is named after the bright red teuila flower, the national flower of Samoa and is frequently seen around the islands. This year's festival will be running from 01 to 07 September. Visitors will experience Samoan dance, arts, gastronomy and even traditional tattooing. Every year thousands pour into the capital to witness the extravaganza that is the Opening Ceremony, held this year on 01 September. The opening is a proud display of Samoan culture with a floral parade, the Siva Afi fire knife dancers and native music setting the scene for a further five days of festival fun. Another spectacular display is the Chief's Fiafia show, where iconic dances and entertainment represents the cultural heritage of different South Pacific Islands. The festival has much in store for those who like to dabble in the creative side of things, with arts and crafts fairs providing the opportunity to partake in traditional weaving lessons, wood carving and cocktail competitions, which take place every day at the Samoa Cultural Village. Visitors can also see the long-established art of tattooing the Samoan way, a skill that has been passed down from generation to generation to create distinctive warrior - like designs. Food lovers will find their calling among the many food stalls serving up Samoa's local specialities and a traditional Umu demonstration on the Wednesday will see food from an underground oven to feed the crowds. There are many other activities and events taking place throughout the week including the Police Band Flag Raising Parade, the Best of Samoa show, Miss Samoa Pageant and the Teuila Movie in the Plaza. As the festival draws to a close, visitors are encouraged to come to the official prize giving ceremony to honour all those who have participated over the week.