About this Event
Island Holiday Night Market
Presented with the Mindfulness Through Play Kendama Tournament
Friday, October 9, 2026 | 4:00–8:00 PM
MCX | Marine Corps Base Hawaii
Kendama Tournament • Local Artisans • Free Samples • Food Trucks
More Than a Game
Kendama is a traditional Japanese skill game that challenges players to focus, stay patient and keep trying. Through play, participants can build perseverance, coordination, confidence and a growth mindset while learning to manage frustration and stay present in the moment.
Mindfulness Through Play uses Kendama as a fun and active way to teach mindfulness, emotional regulation and social-emotional skills.
Kendama is the hook. Mindfulness is the outcome.
Kendama Performance & Skills Clinics
As part of the MCCS Pau Hana Pop-Ups, Professional Kendama player Joshua "Flow" Grove, of Sweets Kendamas and founder of Mindfulness Through Play, brings a FREE interactive clinic where kids can learn the basics, build skills and get tournament-ready. Practice now. Take on the tournament October 9!
September 11, 18 & 25 | 1630–1830
- Sept. 11: The Hilltop - Field Behind Five Palms
- Sept. 18: Waikulu Community Center
- Sept. 25: Mololani Community Center
No registration required. Just show up with your Kendama!
Kendama Tournament
Hosted by Kendama Pro Joshua “Flow” Grove, the FREE Kendama Tournament puts players of all levels to the test with an evening of focus, fun and friendly competition on Friday, October 9 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the MCX Courtyard. The top three finishers in the Beginner and Intermediate divisions win prizes!
BEGINNER DIVISION - Trick List
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
BEGINNER SPEED LADDER:
1. Big Cup
2. Candle Stick
3. Moshi Kame X 5
4. Around the Block
5. Airplane
6. Spike
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION - Trick List
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
INTERMEDIATE SPEED LADDER:
1. Candlestick
2. Base Cup Spike
3. Around the World
4. Swing Spike Earthturn
5. Moshi Kame X 10
6. Airplane, Jumping stick
7. Lighthouse, In
Tournament Rules
- BEGINNER: Ages 12 and under only.
- INTERMEDIATE: All ages welcome.
- NO sponsored or previously sponsored players in any division.
- SPEED LADDER: is a traditional Kendama competition format: Players complete tricks in order, landing each one before advancing, and kneel down to signify completion. A judge watches each attempt. If a player moves on before successfully landing a trick, the judge will call for a retry.
- IMPORTANT: Participants must bring their own Kendama to the tournament and clinics. Kendamas will also be available for sale at each event.
Event venue & nearby stays
Marine Corps Exchange, Cushman Avenue, Kailua, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.