The 53rd Hiri Moale Festival has commenced its celebrations starting with the First Judging event for the 13 Hanenamo contestants, which was held at Tutu Beach Retreat, Taurama.

Out of the thirteen registered contestants, 9 took the center stage in their beautiful and colorfultraditional attires and proudly represented their villages.

The contestants come from villages within the Motu and Koitabu villages of Gaire, Boera, Porabada, Elevala Lahara, Elevala Laurabada, Kouderika, Pari-Taurama, Korobosea, Kira Kira, Araira and Pari Taoata.

Day 2, Wednesday 09 September will feature the Hiri Moale Float Parade that will start at the NCD City Hall and ends down at Era Kone (Ela Beach). WR Carpenters Group are the proud sponsors of 22 vehicles that will be used for the float parade around Port Moresby city from 10a to 1pm.

Hiri Cultural Showcase on Thursday, Day 3 will feature cultural performances from the Hiri people and the Gulf people. The event will be hosted at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium from 10am in the morning to 5pm in the afternoon. Apart from cultural performances, live string band performances and other musical and cultural activities will be part of the celebrations.

On Friday 11th September, Day 4 will see the second judging event for the thirteen Hanenamo contestants from 5pm to 9pm in the evening, held privately for the sponsors at Apec Haus.

On Saturday 12th September, Day 5 will feature Vanagi-Asi Asi (Canoe Racing) from 10am till 5pm in the afternoon. The iconic Lagatoi that was used during the Hiri trade and the main attraction for the festival will make its arrival, sailing in from Manu Manu village, in the Central Province. Other extra events will be also happening during the racing day

The final Day on Sunday 13th September, will be the main event, featuring more cultural and traditional performances from the Gulf and Motu-Koita people from 10 to 5pm, ending with the announcement and crowning of the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo Queen. The event will be held at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.

The Organizers from the Motu-Koita Assembly are inviting all residents of Port Moresby city to come out and be part of the celebrations, as the people of Gulf and Motu-Koita showcase their rich cultural heritage.