upcoming events
MAMA DEE DAY
SaTURDAY AUG 15th, 2026
11AM - 7pm @ Bell st. park in East palo alto
Healthy Lifestyles
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Healthy Families
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Community Wellness
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Healthy Lifestyles 〰️ Healthy Families 〰️ Community Wellness 〰️
About Mama Dee Day
Mama Dee Day was established in honor of Appollonia "Mama Dee" Grey Uhilamoelangi, a beloved community leader whose life was dedicated to serving families, preserving culture, and creating opportunities for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in East Palo Alto and throughout San Mateo County.
Hosted by ‘Anamatangi Polynesian Voices, Mama Dee Day was created to address a longstanding gap in community representation. While East Palo Alto is home to a vibrant Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander population with deep roots spanning multiple generations, there has historically been no large-scale community celebration dedicated to uplifting the culture, contributions, and wellbeing of this community.
In 2025, we launched the inaugural Mama Dee Day as a community-centered gathering that brought together families, youth, elders, artists, healthcare partners, vendors, and community organizations. The response was overwhelming.
2025 Inaugural Event Highlights
600+ ATTENDEES FROM 4 COUNTIES
60% of ATTENDEES FROM EAst Palo Alto, REdwood CIty, and Menlo Park
12 Local Vendors participated, with 85% selling out
100% of performers were Pacific islanders from east palo alto/san mateo county
The event successfully brought together multiple generations in a safe, welcoming, and culturally affirming environment, demonstrating the importance of culturally rooted spaces where families feel seen, valued, and connected.
2026 Theme: Healthy Lifestyles
This theme recognizes that health extends beyond medical care and includes:
● Physical health and prevention
● Mental and emotional wellbeing
● Healthy eating and food access
● Family and social connection
● Cultural identity and belonging
● Community support systems
Through this framework, families will have opportunities to engage in health screenings, wellness education, nutrition resources, family activities, cultural programming, and community conversations centered on living healthier lives.
Building on the success of the inaugural event, Mama Dee Day 2026 will expand its focus through the theme: Healthy Lifestyles
Supporting Mama Dee Day presents a unique opportunity to engage directly with families in a trusted community setting while advancing goals related to prevention, community wellness, outreach, and culturally responsive care.
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A partnership with Mama Dee Day would help:
● Increase awareness of health services and resources
● Strengthen relationships with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities
● Promote preventive health and healthy lifestyles
● Support community-centered approaches to health equity
● Demonstrate institutional commitment to culturally responsive community engagement
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Most importantly, it allows Sutter Health to meet families where they are—in a space built on culture, trust, and community.
Why this matters
Looking ahead
Our vision is for Mama Dee Day to become East Palo Alto's premier Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community celebration and a model for culturally grounded health engagement.
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Together with community partners, healthcare institutions, and local leaders, we aim to build an event that not only celebrates culture but also creates measurable improvements in community wellness, access to resources, and quality of life for families throughout the region.
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We invite your support to join us in this work and help create a healthier future for our community.
performer lineup
VENDOR lineup
Program & SCHEDULE
11:00 AM — Festival Opens
Welcome, vendor marketplace, community resources, health and wellness activities, Kids Zone, and family activities begin.
11:15 AM — Opening Ceremony
Official welcome and introduction to Mama Dee Day.
11:30 AM — Spiritual Opening
Prayer, praise and worship, and a moment to ground the celebration in faith, gratitude, and community.
12:00 PM — Community Recognition Ceremonies
Recognition of youth leaders, community members, partners, and special guests.
1:00 PM — Cultural Performances
Pacific Island dance, music, and youth group presentations.
3:00 PM — Mama Dee Day Concert
Live performances from featured artists and local talent.
6:15 PM — Finale
Closing performances, acknowledgments, and final celebration.
6:30 PM — Resources and Vendor Area Closes
7:00 PM — Event Concludes
Resources, vendors, health booths, and family activities will be open from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
SPONSORS
Your investment helps ensure Mama Dee Day remains a free, accessible, and community-centered event that promotes health, wellness, culture, and family engagement throughout East Palo Alto and San Mateo County.
-Presenting partner-
\CULTURAL partner/
\Community Champion/
\Community FRIEND/
Community SUPPORTER
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FAQ
What is Mama Dee Day?
Mama Dee Day is a free, family-friendly Pacific Islander Heritage Festival celebrating culture, community, healthy lifestyles, and the legacy of Appollonia “Mama Dee” Grey Uhilamoelangi. Everyone is welcome.
When and where is the event?
Saturday, August 15, 2026
11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Bell Street Park
East Palo Alto, Ca
Is there an admission fee?
No! Mama Dee Day is completely FREE and open to the public.
Who should attend?
Everyone! Families, youth, seniors, community members, and visitors of all backgrounds are invited to join us in celebrating Pacific Island culture and community.
What can I expect?
Live music and entertainment
Pacific Island cultural performances
Local food vendors
Merchant vendors
Kids Zone and family activities
Health & wellness resources
Community organizations
Youth recognition
Cultural demonstrations
Official Photo Booth
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking will be available near the venue. Additional parking and transportation information will be shared closer to the event.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are welcome.
Can I become a vendor?
Yes! We welcome food vendors, artisans, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. Vendor applications are available while space remains. (Closed on 7/31)
How can I become a sponsor?
Community partners and businesses are invited to sponsor Mama Dee Day. Sponsorship opportunities help keep this event free for our community while supporting youth programs, cultural preservation, and healthy lifestyle initiatives.
How can I volunteer?
We’re always looking for volunteers to help before, during, and after the festival. Sign up through our Volunteer link! First 50 sign-ups get a free Mama Dee t-shirt!
Can I bring my own chairs?
You are welcome to bring your own lawn chairs and or blankets for the lawn.
Who is organizing the event?
Mama Dee Day is proudly presented by Anamatangi Polynesian Voices, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Pacific Islander communities through culture, health, leadership, and service.
How can I stay updated?
Follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Youtube) or visit www.anamatangi.org for the latest announcements, performer lineup, vendor highlights, and event updates.
press release
On its way!