Tapati Rapa Nui 2026: A celebration of culture and tradition on Easter Island

From the February 3 to 14, 2026 Rapa Nui becomes the stage for „Tapati Rapa Nui“ - one of Polynesia's most important cultural celebrations. The festival is taking place for the 58th time and is the beating heart of the island: a vibrant celebration of the millennia-old Rapa Nui culture.

Vai Maŋaro: The spirit of the water

The motto of this year's Tapati Rapa Nui 2026 is „Vai Maŋaro„, inspired by the ancient water system Ava Raŋa Uka a Toroke Hau. This theme honors the impressive engineering skills of the ancient Rapa Nui, who developed an effective water management system on this small remote island despite its isolation in the South Pacific.

Two young women, Heilany Rapu Hito and Heremeta Teao Manutomatoma, act as Uka (candidates) and represent their communities. At the end of the festival, one of them will be elected ‚Ariki Vahine (Queen of the Tapati) and becomes the face and symbol of Rapa Nui culture for a whole year. Her families and communities support her in over 40 cultural and artistic activities that include traditional sports, dances, songs, handicrafts and local gastronomy.

A festival of living traditions

The Tapatifest brings back competitions that were once part of everyday life in the old Rapa Nuis. Haka Pei is one of the most impressive competitions: participants glide down a steep hill on banana trunks, reaching breathtaking speeds - a test of courage and skill. Tau'a, The Rapa Nui Triathlon combines swimming, running and navigation in a Polynesian canoe and demonstrates the endurance and skills of the competitors. The horse race offers a spectacle of speed and deep connection with these important animals on the island.

Art and culture come to life through Takona, the art of body painting with natural pigments, which tells ancient stories through meaningful symbols. Kai Kai, The telling of legends through thread figures is a fascinating Polynesian tradition that captivates young and old alike. Artisans demonstrate their skills in carving wood moais, rongo rongo panels and other artifacts, as well as making floral wreaths and traditional costumes worn by the contestants and their support groups.

Every night, the main stage lights up in Haŋa Vare Vare with performances of dance, music and song that captivates the audience and takes them through the history of Rapa Nui. Here, on the last evening, the Queen of the Tapati Festival is elected - in a ceremony that involves the entire community in an emotional atmosphere of celebration and cultural identity.

An authentic cultural experience

The Tapati Rapa Nui Festival is not just for watching - it is to be experienced. Visitors are invited to participate in activities, attend cultural workshops, enjoy local gastronomy at the culinary stalls on the festival grounds and immerse themselves in a unique experience that combines past and present. The festival also offers a sales area for handicraft products, paintings, jewelry and natural products from local artists and brands that respect the heritage of their ancestors and promote sustainable tourism.

For those who are unable to travel to Rapa Nui, the festival can be visited via the official social media channels of Tapati Rapa Nui where live broadcasts and daily summaries with the best photos of each activity will be shown. The complete festival program can be found on the website Imagina Rapa Nui, the comprehensive digital travel guide for the island: https://imaginarapanui.com/en/tapati-2026-festival/

Heilany Hito Rapu, one of the two enchanting Tapati candidates

Anakena - Natural Cosmetics celebrates the beauty of Rapa Nui

Anakena - Natural Cosmetics has its roots on Rapa Nui, and this connection shapes everything we do. Our brand was born from the essence of this magical island and uses natural ingredients, that reflect the purity and beauty of Polynesia. We invite you to join us in celebrating the beauty, tradition and culture of this unique island. The Tapatifest is a great opportunity to connect with our brand identity and appreciate the cultural richness that Rapa Nui in the world.

Follow us on Facebook (@anakena.germany), Instagram (@anakenacosmetics.germany) and TikTok (@anakena_cosmetics.de) for more content about the Rapa Nui culture and our Natural cosmetic products.

Experience the magic of Rapa Nui and discover the vibrant energy that only this island can offer! The Tapati Rapa Nui Festival 2026 awaits you from February 3 to 14.