Hawaii Food and Wine Festival - Roots

Kamehameha Schools Presents Roots

Experience the heartbeat of the land at Roots, a culinary conversation and grazing event that honors the cooking traditions and food systems of indigenous communities around the world. Join the conversation with chefs leading the charge in decolonizing the plate as they discuss the importance of native agriculture, access to indigenous food ways, the impact on health and wellness, and how the past affects food sovereignty for the future. Moderated by Ambassador of Culture for The Council of Native Hawaiian Advancement, Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, guests will have the opportunity to hear first-hand from chefs Pyet DeSpain, Robert Kineen, Joe McLeod and Claudette Zepeda in this special moderated discussion.

Following the panel, you’ll delight in creations curated by seven by esteemed chefs as they unveil the vibrant flavors and time-honored heritage of their ancestral homelands, showcasing indigenous ingredients that echo the rich tapestry of their cultures. Engage with visionary culinary leaders who are spearheading the revitalization of indigenous food systems, each a guardian of ancestral wisdom and a champion of sustainability. From the sacred lands of Turtle Island (North America)—represented by the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Tribe, Tlingit heritage in Alaska, and Ho-Chunk Nation—to the indigenous communities of Mexico, Hawaii, and New Zealand—prepare to embark on a sensory adventure that celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of indigenous foodways. Complement your epicurean exploration with a selection of handcrafted cocktails, beer and wine to enhance your tasting experience. Join us in honoring the sacred connection between food, culture, and community, as we come together to celebrate the enduring legacy of indigenous culinary traditions.