The yearly June-July "Heiva" (meaning "party") features an incredible traditional dance and singing contest. Every night, dance schools perform having trained all year for this exclusive event. It is a highlight of a stay in Tahiti & its Islands.

In Tahiti, it takes place at "Place Toata" along the Papeete water front and tickets can be purchased on location.

In Bora Bora, it looks more traditional as dancers perform on sand and not on a formal stage (like in Tahiti) but there are usually less dancers and singers due to the smaller size of the island. It takes place every night in the main village of Vaitape. Quite a few small restaurants set up for the event only offer traditional dish.