Kanakaloka: Santa Claus, Makahiki, and Christmas Traditions Across the Pacific Islands

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Kanakaloka, Hawaiʻi’s island-style Santa Claus, and uncover how Christmas gift-giving traditions spread across Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. From Santa arriving by outrigger canoe to church deacons acting as Father Christmas, we trace how Pacific Island cultures adapted a global holiday to fit ancient systems of reciprocity, community, and seasonal celebration.

We dive deep into the Makahiki festival and the god Lono, examine why no indigenous Pacific Santa existed, and compare Hawaiian Kanakaloka with figures like Hana Kōkō in New Zealand, communal gift-giving in Samoa and Tonga, and unique Micronesian and Melanesian traditions—including parachute gift drops and cargo-era folklore.

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