The Teuila Festival which started yesterday and is running until the 7 September is an annual celebration of Samoa’s unique and fascinating culture with many activities and shows being held across the country, particularly in Apia, Samoa’s capital city. Founded in 1991, the festival is named after the bright red teuila flower, the national flower of Samoa and is frequently seen around the islands. www.teuilafestival.com

Each September, thousands pour into the capital city of Apia to witness the array of cultural displays that represent everything that is Samoan. The week long festival sees choir performances and dance competitions as well as the crowning of Miss Samoa. For a true taste of cultural Samoa, visitors can join the crowds in cheering on the teams at outrigger paddling regatta and witness the amazing skills of the Siva Afi fire knife dancers.

Culture vultures can take in the craft demonstrations such as wood carving, with carving competitions taking place everyday at the Samoa Cultural Village and participate in traditional weaving lessons. See the long-established art of tattooing the Samoan way, a skill that has been passed down from generation to generation to create such distinctive warrior-like designs. Food lovers will also have the opportunity to sample the cuisine with food stalls serving up Samoa’s local specialities and a traditional Samoan barbecue on hand to feed the crowds.

On the last day, visitors are encouraged to come to the official prize giving ceremony to honour all those who have participated over the week, followed by the famous Alo Paopao celebration concert and beach party. For more information on Samoa and the Teuila Festival, visit www.samoa.travel.

-ENDS-

For more information please contact:

Samoa Tourism Authority

Tel: +44 208 877 4512

E-mail: samoa@representationplus.co.uk

Visit: www.samoa.travel

Notes to editors:

Samoa: The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific

The islands of Samoa - The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific - are the true heart of Polynesia. Ten islands of stunning wild beauty, Samoa - or Independent Samoa as it is now known so as to avoid confusion with American Samoa, is paradise waiting to be explored. From powder soft beaches, to warm tropical seas, colourful coral reefs alive with marine life. The rugged, lush interiors reveal endless wildlife, waterfalls and hiking trails.