I-Kiribati outrigger canoes are among the fastest in the world and require precision and balance to manoeuvre them skillfuly in changing winds. A game unique to Kiribati is called oreano. A soccer-sized ball made of a heavy stone wrapped in coconut husk fibre is thrown between two teams of ten players. Playing bingo and cards are favourite forms of recreation, and videos are gaining in popularity. Traditional storytelling dances are reserved for special maneaba occasions.
Costumes are as important as the performance itself.
Many families have their own distinctive dance styles, which have been passed down through generations. On religious holidays, such as Easter and Christmas, I-Kiribati attend a religious service and then a feast in the maneaba, where different families perform local dances. No gifts are exchanged on holidays, and no birthdays are celebrated, other than that of a family s first son. The first Monday in August is Youth Day, and 10 December is celebrated as Human Rights Day.