The dates for the canoe festival in Alotau are November 1-3. I was at this event last year and had such a great time, especially since very few tourists would be at this event. You really get to learn and interact properly with the people there. The first 2 days of the event are especially the best. I really recommend this festival if you're going to be in Papua New Guinea in early November and want to do something else aside from diving.