Soak up the Mana at the Marquesas Islands Arts Festival

For centuries, the Marquesas Islands have been a bubbling cauldron of art, culture, ancient traditions and enchanting folklore. Steeped in Polynesian history, this remote archipelago is the heart and soul of Ma’ohi culture. Invoking a strong sense of Mana, a Polynesian word that encapsulates spiritual power and life force, the Marquesas Festival allows visitors to interact and immerse fully into the rich cultural tapestry of the Marquesas Islands.

Beloved by the locals and admired by tourists from around the globe, this festival delivers a powerful punch of Polynesian charm that has an unforgettable impact on all who attend.

Experiencing the Vibrant Polynesian Culture

The Festival of Marquesan Arts is an unrivaled opportunity to experience Polynesian culture in its most authentic environment. From traditional dance and music performances, aerial acrobatics, enchanting choir singing to body art, sculpture, and tattoo displays, the festival celebrates the awe-inspiring beauty of Marquesan arts in all its glory.

Gathering of the Islands

Held every four years, this week-long festival rotates between the six inhabited islands of the Marquesas: Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Ua Huka, Hiva Oa, Tahuata, and Fatu Hiva. Although each island radiates its unique charm, they all share a profound sense of Mana. The festival serves as a reminder to the Island communities that they are the custodians of a priceless cultural treasure. It sends a powerful message of unity, mutual respect, and common identity which is deeply entwined in the Tahitian ethos.

The Art of Tattooing in Polynesian Culture

Tattooing holds a significant place in Polynesian culture. The Marquesas Islands have been a hub of Polynesian tattoo artistry for centuries, with many global tattoo trends traced back to their shores. The festival is a perfect stage for tattoo artists to display their intricate ancestral designs, allowing festival-goers to get inked by renowned local experts. Tattooing sessions become interactive art performances, where raw courage meets delicate artistry.

Feel the Beat of Tahitian Drums

Pahu, the Tahitian traditional drum, resonates with a primal energy that reverberates through the Islands during the festival. The drum ensembles and traditional dance performances are the soul of the festival. These vibrant displays not only entertain but serve as a representation of the Polynesian spirit.

Sculpture and Artwork

Beyond music and dance, the festival paints a wide stroke of artistic marvels. The Marquesan art is renowned for its wood carvings, stone sculptures, and ornamental crafts. Workshops are held where artists share their techniques and understanding of traditional Marquesan art forms with the visitors.

Discover the Polynesian Cuisine

Visitors have a divine treat waiting for them in the food stalls. The traditional culinary delicacies of the Marquesas Islands are a gastronomical adventure to cherish. One can sample delicious Polynesian dishes like Poi, a taro paste delicacy, or the island’s celebrated Dish, Umu Pork.

Connecting deeply with the roots of the Polynesian culture and living the spirit of unity, the Marquesas Islands Arts Festival remains an unparalleled cultural spectacle to witness on Tahitian soil. Soak in the Mana, and live the enchanting rhythm of the Marquesas Islands!