It's almost September and that means time for the annual Aloha Festivals. The biggest cultural festival in Hawaii spanning all the major islands puts on 300-plus events from small-town Hana to big city Honolulu. It started 60 year ago, created by the tourism industry, but its definitely taken on a life and significance all its own. Here are our Top 5 picks for must-do events.

* Traditional Opening Ceremony (Iolani Palace, Oahu) -- The palace was the seat of the Hawaiian Monarchy until the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani and it continues to be an important cultural symbol for Native Hawaiians. The ceremonies will bless the ceremonies with traditional kahiko hula, Hawaiian language chants, and other cultural markers of the festival season. Probably more solemn than other events but quite impressive.

* Annual Poke Recipe Contest (Big Island, Hapuna Prince Hotel / $5 entry) -- If you like ahi, go. If you like sushi, go. If you like seviche, definitely go. Heck, just go and bring your appetite. So many ways to prepare fresh fish, so little room in your tummy

* Waikiki Floral Parade (Oahu, Waikiki / free) -- Hawaii is the land of the lei, where flowers of all colors, sizes and origins blossom and fill the trees all year round. Floats ornately decorated with local flowers float down Kalakaua Avenue to Kapiolani Park where arts and crafts booths for kids are set up and photo ops for the floral masterpieces await.

* Maui Makahiki Celebration (Maui, Kaanapali Beach Hotel / free) -- A veritable gamefest. Watch and participate in Makahiki games including 'ulumaika (Hawaiian bowling), haka moa (contact wrestling), hakoko (Hawaiian wrestling), pahu ihe (spear throwing) and konane (Hawaiian chess). For artistic types there's koa jewelry making, coconut and lauhala weaving, poi pounding, lei making, canoe rides and ti leaf cape making exhibits. And, of course, hula and good food.

* Brothers Caz at the MACC (Maui, Maui Arts and Cultural Center / free) -- Roland and Robert Cazimero are two of the most accomplished musicians and performers in Hawaii, seemlessly blending traditional Hawaiian tunes with their own contemporary songs. Their guitar work is flawless, their harmonies super tight and soulful. Go early as lawn space in this glorious, open-air concert facility near Kahului,will be at a premium.

—Alex, 08/30/06