TATOU FEST, created by Te Ao Mana, is an international cultural gathering created for Pacific Islanders by Pacific Islanders where all are welcome to respectfully celebrate our community, cultural traditions, and artistic innovation. 

Over 40,000 Pacific Islanders live in NYC, yet investment in this community is overlooked. This event is the first of its kind in New York City and the larger east coast region. 

Some of the values that underlie Polynesian cultures, including ‘Mana’, Spiritual power, ‘Lokahi’, working together to strengthen our community and, ‘Malama Aina’, a reverence for and connection to nature and protecting our natural resources, can be celebrated by everyone. The focus is an immersive experience allowing participants to learn about a culture typically not represented on a large scale in NYC.

The festivities will engage the New York City community through activities that take a closer look at these unique traditions. Surfacing the values and spiritual foundation of Polynesian Culture will enrich the fabric of New York City. Participants will ignite a deeper sense of self and their connection to nature, their surroundings, and the community in which they live.