Every year the Hawaiian community takes the first weekend in November to celebrate Hula by holding a competition at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Twenty or more Hula Halau (schools) will compete in gorgeous costumes, with fresh flower lei and live music. The catagories include elders (kupuna), children (keiki), young men (kane), young women (wahine), gracious ladies (ages 35-50) competing in ancient and modern hula with judges coming from Hawaii. Halau come from all over California, all islands in Hawaii, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon. There is also a large market place for all things Hawaiian in 2 buildings with local Hawaiian bands playing all day. Outside there are food booths, shave ice, malasadas, Hawaiian plate lunch, etc. (Vegetarians, bring your lunch) It costs $15 per day per person. I recommend coming for a while. Watch the dancing, check out to merchandise, have something to eat. Parking costs $10/day. The competition starts at 11am and goes till about 6pm. (Friday is only in the evening and is solo dancers). More info at www.Kumuhulafestival.com