The Tapati Rapa Nui Festival is much more than a celebration—it is the time of year when Easter Island expresses its identity, history and strong community spirit at its fullest. With Tapati Rapa Nui 2026, taking place from February 3 to 14, 2026, the island has already begun its preparations, and one of the most anticipated milestones is the start of the dance rehearsals supporting the queen candidates.
This article is designed for both travelers visiting Easter Island and the general public, aiming to share up‑to‑date information, foster cultural connection, and show how Tapati is truly lived long before the official festival dates.
Two candidates, one shared cultural passion
For Tapati Rapa Nui 2026, the island will be represented by two queen candidates, each supported by their families, teams and communities:
Heilany Rapu Hito
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heilany_hr
Heremeta Teao Manutomatoma
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hheremeta._/
Both candidates have already begun an intense preparation process involving dance, music, physical training, costume creation, teamwork and strong community involvement—elements that embody the true essence of Tapati.
Dance rehearsals begin: from January 5, 2026
Dance rehearsals officially started on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM, marking one of the first moments when the Tapati spirit becomes visible and tangible across the island.
Each candidate has a designated rehearsal location:
Heilany Rapu Hito rehearsals
📍 Koro Paina Kori Gymnasium
Heremeta Teao Manutomatoma rehearsals
📍 Liceo Lorenzo Baeza Vega
In the weeks leading up to Tapati, these venues become vibrant cultural meeting points where traditions are shared, knowledge is passed on and new participants are warmly welcomed.
Dance categories: participation by age group
As is tradition during Tapati Rapa Nui, rehearsals are organized into three age‑based categories, allowing different generations to take part:
- Ŋā poki – Children and teenagers (ages 6–17)
🕔 5:00–6:00 PM - Paꞌari – Adults aged 34 and over
🕕 6:00–7:00 PM - Taŋa Apī – Young adults (ages 18–33)
🕕 7:00 a 8:00 PM
This structure reflects one of Tapati’s most meaningful values: intergenerational cultural transmission, where children, youth and adults come together around a shared cultural purpose.
Expo Tapati 2026: culture, entrepreneurship and sustainability
Alongside the rehearsals, Expo Tapati 2026 is also progressing steadily. In recent weeks, selected entrepreneurs have taken part in working sessions focused on technical aspects, management, planning and operations, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
Expo Tapati brings together artisans, creators and local gastronomy entrepreneurs, becoming a key component of Tapati Rapa Nui 2026. It offers visitors and residents alike the opportunity to discover authentic cultural expressions while supporting the local economy.
Instagram oficial: https://www.instagram.com/tapatirapanui/
Facebook oficial: https://www.facebook.com/TapatiRapaNuiOficial
Official information and last‑minute updates
For official programs, schedule changes and important announcements, we recommend following the official Tapati Rapa Nui social media channels
These platforms provide the most accurate and up‑to‑date information before and throughout the festival.
Open participation for the community and visitors
One of the most remarkable aspects of Tapati Rapa Nui is its open and living community spirit. Dance rehearsals are not closed spaces—both local residents and visitors are welcome to participate, as long as they do so with respect and cultural awareness.
Travelers are invited to join, listen, learn and share, gaining a deeper understanding of Rapa Nui culture from the inside. Participating in rehearsals offers a rare opportunity to connect beyond sightseeing and experience Tapati as a meaningful cultural exchange rather than a spectator event.
From our experience as a private tour agency on Easter Island, many travelers deeply value these authentic encounters, creating memories that last far beyond their visit.
Connect with the local community after a day of history and exploration with us. At the end of our private tours, we can drop you off right where Tapati dance rehearsals begin—allowing you to continue your day immersed in music, movement and living Rapa Nui culture.
