Ancestral competitions in Tapati: Tradition, strength and culture

Tapati is a cultural and ancestral celebration that takes place on Rapa Nui every year, and that brings back the ancient tradition of the island through physical ancestral competitions and the election of the Queen of Rapa Nui, a representative figure of leadership and connection with the local culture.

The Tapati Festival is one of the most important festivities on Rapa Nui, where the community gathers to honor their rich cultural heritage through diverse physical, artistic and ritual competitions.

This event, which takes place in February, is not only a demonstration of skills and resistance, but also a homage to old customs of the inhabitants of the island. During Tapati, the islanders and visitors are witnesses of unique performances like the Haka Pei and the Tau’a, physical strength competitions that connect with the warrior spirit of the ancestors. Moreover, the election of the Queen of Rapa Nui is a key element, where candidates, supported by their clans, family and friends, participate in the activities to gain points, reinforcing their role as cultural leaders.

Ancestral competitions in Tapati

Among the ancestral physical competitions, the Haka Pei stands out, where participants descent at great speed in banana trunks down the slopes of the Pu’I hill, imitating the old practices of the warriors. Moreover, there’s the Tau’a, a sort of triathlon that takes place around the Rano Raraku volcano, and that combines swimming, racing and canoe rowing, a resistance and strength test. You can also find horse racing in Vaihu, boosted by the amount of equines the place has.

Lastly, artistic expressions, traditional dances and music are added. These activities show physical skill, and the profound respect of islanders for nature and history.

Picture: Sernatur Audiovisual Bank

The Queen of Tapati Rapa Nui

Another highlight of the festival is the election of the Queen of Rapa Nui, who represents the community during the year. Candidates for queen are not just evaluated for their beauty but also for their capacity to represent their family and community through their participation in the competitions. This role embodies the spirit of Rapa Nui woman, strong, brave, and deeply connected to the roots of the island.

The election of the queen is linked to the different tests and activities of the festival. Each candidate represents a clan or team, and both her and her followers participate in a variety of physical, artistic and cultural competitions to gain points.

This competition, as well as having importance within the festival, also makes the queen play a ceremonial role in cultural events throughout the year, acting as ambassador of the island. The election is an opportunity to reinforce the sense of community identity and to keep the local customs alive.

Picture: Sernatur Audiovisual Bank

Requirements to attend the Tapati party on Rapa Nui

Because of the popularity of the festival, we recommend you book in advance both accommodation and tours related to Tapati activities. Moreover, those who wish to go to Rapa Nui during the celebration must fulfill additional requirements implemented to protect the environment and control tourism. These include the presentation of a booking at an authorized accommodation, a return ticket and the Rapa Nui Entry Form, administered by the local authority.

It is important to know both restrictions and regulations to enjoy this unique cultural event, which celebrates Rapa Nui identity and preserves its history and tradition.

Picture: Sernatur Audiovisual Bank