The 19th Annual Redondo Beach Slack Key Festival, scheduled for January 18, 2026, at 2pm, celebrates the rich legacy of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar and Music. Hosted at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, this festival showcases GRAMMY-winning and Nā Hōkū Hanohano (Hawaiian Grammy) award-winning Hawaiian ki ho'alu guitarists, along with vocal and hula performances and supporting musicians. Slack Key guitar is a Hawaiian fingerstyle technique that originated in the 19th century when European sailors and Latin American cattlemen brought guitars to Hawaii. The Hawaiians adapted these instruments to their traditional songs by "slacking" the strings, resulting in a lush, resonant, open sound instantly identifiable as Hawaiian. The festival features performances by renowned artists such as 10-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner and 2-time Grammy Award nominee Natalie Ai Kamauu, known for her unique vocal style and hula expertise. Other performers include George Kuo, recognized as one of Hawaii’s premier Slack Key Guitar artists, and Jeff Peterson, a versatile musician contributing to two Grammy Award-winning recordings. The event also offers an Annual VIP Luau Meet-and-Greet on January 17, 2026, from 5pm to 8pm at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Ken Miller Rec Center Auditorium, providing an intimate evening with the artists, Hawaiian entertainment, and 'ono food. Additionally, the Island Fair on January 18, 2026, from 11am to 4pm at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center features island-themed gifts, art, handmade crafts, home decor, accessories, apparel, Hawaiian plate lunches, and authentic island-style shave ice. Conveniently located just minutes from LAX, the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center is the crown jewel of the South Bay arts scene, offering a state-of-the-art sound system, friendly onsite staff, and plenty of free parking. For more information and ticket bookings, please visit the official website.
Also check out other Entertainment events in Hermosa Beach, Music events in Hermosa Beach, Arts events in Hermosa Beach.
