On July 11, 2026, kendama players, families, and curious newcomers from across Hawaii and beyond are invited to attend the inaugural Hawaii Kendama Expo, a special one-day event celebrating the art, culture, and community of kendama.
Hosted by the Hawaii Kendama Club, Maui Kendama Club, Sol Kendamas, and Kendama Co, the event will take place from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Your Space Maui, Suite N, located at 400 Hana Highway in Kahului, Maui.
Whether you have just picked up a kendama or have been playing for years, the Hawaii Kendama Expo is aimed to be an accessible and exciting experience for all ages. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn kendama fundamentals, watch world-class performances, participate in workshops, meet players from across Hawaii, and experience one of Japan's most beloved skill toys in a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
One of the goals of the Hawaii Kendama Expo is to strengthen and grow the local kendama community while introducing new players to the heart of the game. Kendama has experienced periods of tremendous popularity throughout Hawaii over the years, inspiring thousands of players to pick up a kendama and learn their first tricks. Events like this help transform that initial interest into lasting friendships, local communities, and opportunities for continued growth.
Throughout the day, attendees will be able to connect with members of the Hawaii Kendama Club and Maui Kendama Club, learn directly from experienced players, and discover how kendama brings people together through creativity, challenge, and shared experiences.
For families looking for a unique weekend activity, the Hawaii Kendama Expo offers an opportunity to learn a new skill together while experiencing a positive and supportive community.
One of the highlights of the event will be special appearances by Zoomadanke, the internationally renowned Japanese kendama performance duo consisting of Kodaman and EASY.
Zoomadanke has become the most recognized performance group in kendama worldwide. They have performed live in more than 18 countries across over 30 international shows, introducing audiences throughout North America, Europe, South America, and Asia to the possibilities of kendama performance. They are annual performers at the Kendama World Cup in Japan and are widely known for their viral YouTube video, Kendama Ninjas filmed by Kuma Films, one of the most viewed kendama videos ever created.
During the Hawaii Kendama Expo, Zoomadanke will perform twice wit the first performance at the beginning of the event followed by another performance at the end of the day giving attendees two opportunities to witness their unique blend of skill, choreography, and entertainment.
The Hawaii Kendama Expo is designed to be more than just a performance event. Throughout the day, attendees will have access to workshops led by members of the Hawaii Kendama Club, allowing new players to learn the basics while helping experienced players continue improving their skills.
Professional demonstrations will showcase the highest levels of modern kendama play, highlighting the creativity and progression that have transformed kendama into a growing international sport and art form.
Special guests attending the event include Chad Covington, owner of Sol Kendamas, as well as Austin Griswold of the Sol Kendamas team and Jacob Bishop of the Kendama Co team. Throughout the event, they will be demonstrating tricks, interacting with attendees, and sharing their passion for kendama with the community.
Additional local surprise guests may also make appearances throughout the day.
Attendees will have the opportunity to shop a selection of the newest products from Sol Kendamas and Kendama Co.
Sol Kendamas will be bringing new kendamas and merchandise, while Kendama Co will have a variety of products available as well. New shirts and kendamas from both brands will be available for purchase throughout the event.
In addition to shopping opportunities, both Sol Kendamas and Kendama Co will be giving away prizes during the event, providing attendees with additional chances to take home new kendamas and merchandise.
VIP ticket holders will receive early access to shop exclusive products before general admission begins, as well as spend some extra time with the pros and Hawaii Kendama Club members.
Advance registration is strongly encouraged.
General admission tickets are available for $15 in advance, while VIP tickets are available for $20. You can buy your tickets here:
https://www.yourspacemaui.com/event-details/hawaii-kendama-expo
VIP admission includes early access to meet the hosts and pro players, preferred seating, and the first opportunity to shop exclusive kendamas and merchandise before doors open to general admission.
Tickets will also be available at the door, although pricing will be higher on the day of the event.
The Hawaii Kendama Expo is just one part of a larger week of kendama activities in Hawaii.
Additional kendama jams and community gatherings will take place on Oahu, providing even more opportunities for players to meet, learn, and connect with one another. Information regarding these events will be shared through the Sol Kendamas, Kendama Co, and Hawaii Kendama Club Instagram accounts.
The Hawaii Kendama Expo represents a unique opportunity to experience kendama in Hawaii alongside local players, international guests, and some of the most influential figures in the kendama world.
Whether you are a parent looking for an engaging activity for your child, someone interested in Japanese culture, or a longtime kendama player hoping to connect with the community, this event offers something for everyone.
Come ready to learn, play, connect, and experience kendama like never before.
We look forward to seeing you on July 11 in Kahului.
If you know someone on Maui, Oahu, or elsewhere in Hawaii who may enjoy the event, please share this information and help us continue growing the kendama community throughout the islands.
