5th Annual Waikiki Steel Guitar Festival to Feature Legendary Artists, 7/19

Legendary steel guitarists and up-and-coming students return to Waikiki Beach Walk in July to fill the center with the soothing sounds of the Hawaiian steel guitar at the 5th Annual Waikiki Steel Guitar Festival. Guitarists will hit the Plaza Stage on Saturday, July 19, 2014, from 3 to 7 p.m. Presented by Waikiki Beach Walk and Outrigger Enterprises Group, with the support of Ke Kula Mele Hawaii, the annual festival celebrates the island culture as captured by the beautifully distinct sounds of the Hawaiian steel guitar.

"Hawaiian steel guitar is truly synonymous with our islands and we're thrilled to be back at Waikiki Beach Walk to celebrate and showcase this wonderful instrument that was created right here in Hawaii," said Alan Akaka, renowned Hawaiian steel guitarist, music teacher and director of Ke Kula Mele Hawaii. "It's an honor and joy for all of us in the steel guitar community to participate in the Festival and we hope that both visitors and kamaaina will join us."

In addition to Alan Akaka, the Festival will also feature master steel guitarists Greg Sardinha, Jeff Au Hoy, Bobby Ingano, Eddie Palama and Owana Salazar, who will be joined by Ke Kula Mele's Makua Class and members of the next generation of Hawaiian steel guitar.

The following musical performances are scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. on the Plaza Stage:

3:00-3:25 p.m. Greg Sardinha

3:30-3:55 p.m. Eddie Palama

4:00-4:25 p.m. Jeff Au Hoy

4:30-5:10 p.m. Ke Kula Mele Makua Class and Next Gen

5:15-5:40 p.m. Owana Salazar

5:45-6:10 p.m. Bobby Ingano

6:15-6:35 p.m. Alan Akaka with The Islanders

6:40-7:00 p.m. "Jam session" - group performance with all musicians

"The Waikiki Steel Guitar Festival is just one of many wonderful events and activities that happen throughout the year at Waikiki Beach Walk," said General Manager Conchita Malaqui. "Because we are part of the Outrigger family, we are committed to providing the very best experiences for all of our guests to enjoy when visiting this wonderful destination."

The 5th Annual Waikiki Steel Guitar Festival is free and open to the public. Concertgoers can park with ease with valet parking for up to four hours available for $6.00 at the Embassy Suites® - Waikiki Beach Walk® (201 Beachwalk) and the Wyndham Vacation Ownership - Waikiki Beach Walk (227 Lewers Street) with any same-day purchase and validation from any Waikiki Beach Walk establishment. For more information, contact the Waikiki Beach Walk management office at (808) 931-3591 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.