A participant of the festival
By Agnes Menanopo
The inaugural Solomon Islands National Panpipe (NATPAN) Festival 2026 officially opened today at the National Art Gallery in Honiara.
The five-day event has brought together more than 20 panpipe groups from across the country, showcasing the rich diversity of Solomon Islands’ traditional panpipe music through unique performances and sounds.
The festival also brings together elders, youth and communities to celebrate and preserve a musical tradition that has carried stories and cultural identity through generations.
Delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony, Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon. James Bonuga, said this year’s theme, “Echoes of the Past, Sounds of the Hapi Isles,” reminds Solomon Islanders that every melody carries the voices of their ancestors and communities.
“Panpipe music is far more than entertainment. It is our cultural signature.
“Across the Pacific, whenever people hear the unique sound of the panpipe, they immediately think of Solomon Islands,” Minister Bonuga said.
He said festivals are one of the most effective ways to preserve the country’s living cultural heritage.
“Festivals provide opportunities for our elders to teach, our young people to learn, and our communities to celebrate.
“They also create memorable experiences for visitors and strengthen Solomon Islands’ position as a unique cultural tourism destination,” he said.
The festival is supported by the Government, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, together with partners including Solomon Telekom, SolTuna, SolRais, V-Fresh, SASA Water and Bulkshop.
The NATPAN Festival will run until Sunday, 5 July.
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