It’s that time again when we pay tribute to Hawai‘i’s unique culture and the wonderful people of Maui County with a multi-island celebration. The Festivals of Aloha, Maui Nui Style! celebration shares the island traditions of Maui, Moloka‘i and Lana‘i with malihini (visitors) and kama‘aina (residents) alike. The festival will include a variety of pageantry, parades, street parties, concerts and family activities that span over Maui Nui, including an array of activities in Hana. During this September and October, the three islands will be hosting a number of public events sponsored by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, County of Maui and Maui Visitors Bureau.
The Maui Arts and Cultural Center will kick off the festivities on Friday, Sept. 12, at 6 p.m. as one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved musicians, “Uncle” Richard Ho‘opi‘i, hosts the annual singing competition to showcase some of Maui’s finest amateur male falsetto performers. KPOA Radio’s “Morning Goddess,” Alaka‘i Paleka, will serve as mistress of ceremonies and a number of surprise guests will perform.
The “Heavenly Hana” celebration includes a week of festivities, including a true “small town” parade reminiscent of old Hawai‘i and traditional Hawaiian ho‘olaule‘a (celebration) with a variety of events for every member of the family beginning Saturday, Oct. 11.
The “Friendly Isle” of Moloka‘i will throw a bash as well to commemorate its 50th year of what is now known as Festivals of Aloha, Maui Nui Style! Join Hawai‘i’s “Most Hawaiian Island” on Saturday, Oct. 4, to celebrate in true local fashion with ‘onolicious food, fun games, exciting entertainment and the crowning of Moloka‘i’s 2008 Royal Court.
Come experience the aloha little Lana‘i has to offer on Saturday, Oct. 25, as Hawai‘i’s “Most Enticing Island” welcomes the arrival of its 2008 Royal Court and throws quite the ho‘olaule‘a in Dole Park.
For the most current schedule of events, go to www.visitmaui.com. Purchase official Festivals of Aloha, Maui Nui Style! buttons for $5 each and receive discounted admission to many of the celebratory events. Buttons sales help fund countywide festivals.
For more information, call (808) 878-1888 or (808) 244-3530.