Maui

Monthly street party featuring live music, vendors, food, and community spirit along Market Street.

Wailuku First Friday returns on Friday, September 5, 2025, lighting up historic Market Street with live music, local food, artisan vendors, keiki-friendly activities, and a warm, walkable block-party vibe from 6 to 9 p.m.. This free monthly town party closes Market Street to cars, sets up stages and pop-ups along the corridor, and showcases the best of Maui-made products and talent as the gathering kicks off the island’s September Festivals of Aloha programming in central Maui. Visitors and residents can expect a festive evening that feels authentically local, with great eats, island entertainment, and easy access to downtown’s galleries, shops, and landmarks — all centered around Wailuku’s storied main street.

Date, time, and where to go

• Friday, September 5, 2025, 6–9 p.m. on Market Street, Wailuku Town, Maui.
• Street closure: Market Street closes to vehicle traffic starting at 5:30 p.m.; cars left in the closure area may be ticketed and towed.
• Free parking: Wailuku Garage offers free parking after 6 p.m.; entrance on Church Street between Vineyard and Main.

What’s planned for September

The September edition opens the Festivals of Aloha and spotlights Maui-grown and Maui-made products with a pop-up farmers market inside Wailuku Garage in collaboration with GoFarm Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Farmers Union, and Maui Farmers Support Network, bringing fresh produce and locally crafted goods directly to attendees. Live music features award-winning Hawaiian trio Ei Nei, known for close harmonies and mele rooted in tradition, plus Wailuku native and 2024 Richard Hoʻopiʻi Falsetto Contest champion Antonio “Akoni” Robles; DJ Z keeps things moving between sets. Expect a community mural activity by Sae Design in front of the ʻĪao Theater, Sketchy Booth and Labubu Party at Mystery Maui, and a bustling lineup of local artisans and food vendors along the street.

First Friday vibe and what to expect

Wailuku First Friday is a family-friendly block party that feels like a neighborhood celebration as much as a night market. Multiple music stations, cultural pop-ups, and food trucks create an easy rhythm so groups can split up for snacks, shopping, and keiki activities, then regroup for a favorite band set or mural session. Regulars praise it as a small but lively street fair “to feel like a local” with multiple bands, hula, and a rotating selection of vendors — and great Maui treats like fresh malasadas — right in central Wailuku. Visitors get to experience a real island town after hours, with historic storefronts, theater marquees, and friendly merchants that define Wailuku’s aloha-forward charm.

Road closures, access, and tips

• Arrive early: Street parking fills quickly and Market Street closes at 5:30 p.m.; plan to park in Wailuku Garage after 6 p.m. and walk a block to Market Street.
• Bring small bills: Many food and craft vendors accept cards, but quick cash purchases keep lines moving, especially during peak dinner time.
• Dress light: Expect warm evenings; comfortable shoes are essential for strolling and standing at stages.
• Respect the neighborhood: Use designated bins and follow event staff guidance at crosswalks and closure points to keep the party safe and clean for all.

Festivals of Aloha connection

As the first Friday in September, this Wailuku town party plays an official part in Maui’s Festivals of Aloha schedule, celebrating culture, community, and island pride with music, vendors, and hands-on activities on Market Street from 6 to 9 p.m.. The county-wide series continues through September with cultural exhibits, hula, competitions, and ho‘olaule‘a gatherings across Maui Nui; Wailuku’s kickoff sets the tone with a welcoming, central event that is easy to reach and enjoy on a Friday night.

Where to eat and what to try

From Wailuku stalwarts to pop-up food trucks, there is plenty to sample along the route — plate lunches, poke bowls, hot malasadas, shave ice, and local-style desserts that keep the lines moving between sets. Many downtown restaurants and cafés extend hours or offer grab-and-go specials during First Friday, so consider a progressive dinner: start with pupus at one end of Market Street, try a vendor specialty near the center stage, then finish with a sweet treat closer to ʻĪao Theater. Vendors change monthly, so keep an eye out for Maui-grown ingredients and locally made pantry items featured in the farmers market pop-up inside the garage this month.

Arts, culture, and community

Wailuku First Friday regularly includes cultural demonstrations, community art, and partnerships that celebrate local creativity. The September community mural activity hosted by Sae Design invites partygoers to add a brushstroke to a collective artwork, while Mystery Maui’s activities add playful energy near the theater. The live sets from Ei Nei and Akoni foreground mele Hawai‘i and falsetto in Wailuku’s hometown setting, linking contemporary performance with Maui’s musical traditions.

Practical planning for families

• Keiki-friendly: Expect face painting, chalk art, and safe, car-free blocks to explore; keep an eye on little ones near performance areas and food lines.
• Stroller-savvy: Strollers navigate well along Market Street, but the busiest chokepoints are near the main stage; detour via adjacent sidewalks if needed.
• Restrooms and water: Use venue restrooms where available and bring a refillable bottle; food vendors often sell bottled water, and the garage provides a quieter spot to regroup.

If visiting Maui for First Friday

• Make a day of it: Spend the afternoon at ʻĪao Valley State Monument or nearby beaches, then head into town for the 6 p.m. start; First Friday is an easy add-on to a central Maui itinerary.
• Support local: Browse Wailuku’s boutiques and galleries before the closure or after the event opens, and consider snagging Maui-made goods at the farmers pop-up to take home.
• Check the calendar: Wailuku First Friday runs monthly, but organizers note a pause in October 2025 with return scheduled for Friday, Nov. 7, 2025; September 5 is the marquee town party heading into fall.

Verified details at a glance

• Event: Wailuku First Friday (free monthly town party).
• Date/time: Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, 6–9 p.m..
• Location: Market Street, Wailuku; street closure at 5:30 p.m.; free parking at Wailuku Garage after 6 p.m..
• September highlights: GoFarm Hawaiʻi pop-up farmers market in Wailuku Garage, Ei Nei live set, Akoni Robles performance, DJ Z, community mural at ʻĪao Theater, Sketchy Booth and Labubu Party at Mystery Maui.
• Note: No Wailuku First Friday in October; returns Nov. 7, 2025.

Mark the calendar, bring an appetite, and get ready to stroll, listen, and shop local under the Wailuku Town lights on September 5. With Hawaiian music on stage, Maui-grown goods in the garage, and Market Street full of flavor and aloha, Wailuku First Friday is an easy, inspiring way to spend a Maui evening — and the perfect kickoff to the island’s September Festivals of Aloha.

Al Di Meola brings the Electric Band to Maui for a one-night-only concert on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Castle Theater at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC), with local duo Indio & Avi announced as special guests and pre-concert music in the Yokouchi Pavilion by Andrew and Jay Molina. The performance is part of Di Meola’s 2025 electric-focused tour and marks a rare Hawaii date where the Grammy-winning fusion icon revisits the high-energy sound that defined his early solo albums and Return to Forever years, alongside newer works from his acclaimed 2024 double studio release, TWENTYFOUR.

Date, time, and venue

• Saturday, September 6, 2025
• 7:30 p.m. curtain
• Castle Theater, Maui Arts & Cultural Center, One Cameron Way, Kahului, HI
• The official event listing confirms the schedule, venue, and presenting details, with MACC anchoring all ticketing online for this date.

Tickets and packages

• Price range: The MACC listing notes reserved seating with tiered pricing and a limited Premium Seating option; media announcements cite a range from $15 to $125, with a separate $100 pre-show meet-and-greet and signed merch upgrade package available for add-on purchase.
• Member benefits: MACC members receive an early access purchase window and a published discount on select seats per venue policy.
• How to buy: All tickets are sold through the MACC website; the physical box office is not open for walk-up sales, but email support is available for inquiries.

Program notes and what to expect

Di Meola’s Electric Band set is designed as a high-energy showcase that stitches together chapters of his storied career: early fusion masterpieces like Elegant Gypsy, Return to Forever-era fireworks, and global-leaning newer material that blends complex rhythmic syncopation with lyrical melodies and sophisticated harmony. Press previews quote Di Meola framing the show as “many chapters” of his musical life, with nods to the Mediterranean Sundance legacy and pieces from recent cycles, ensuring both longtime fans and new listeners can follow an arc from blazing fusion to nuanced world-jazz textures. Expect virtuosic interplay, tightly arranged ensemble passages, and electric tone craft that contrasts the acoustic trio settings he’s also renowned for.

Guest artists and pre-concert entertainment

The night opens with Maui’s Indio & Avi, whose acoustic guitar interplay sets a complementary tone before the electric fireworks to come, followed by pre-concert music in the Yokouchi Pavilion by Andrew and Jay Molina that creates a festive lobby atmosphere as doors open and guests arrive. The MACC format encourages arriving early to enjoy food and beverage vendors on-site before taking seats in the Castle Theater.

Artist background and recent releases

• Fusion legacy: Di Meola’s breakout with Chick Corea’s Return to Forever put him at the vanguard of 1970s fusion, and subsequent solo albums like Land of the Midnight Sun and Elegant Gypsy became touchstones for electric guitar virtuosity.
• Acoustic chapters: The historic Guitar Trio with Paco de Lucía and John McLaughlin and best-selling live release Friday Night in San Francisco broadened his influence into acoustic flamenco-jazz fusion.
• Latest work: TWENTYFOUR (2024), a double studio album, drew strong praise and underlines the continued evolution of his writing, which often weaves tango, flamenco, and Middle Eastern motifs into modern jazz contexts.

Practical tips for the Maui show

• Parking and arrival: Allow extra time for evening parking at MACC and to enjoy pavilion entertainment; doors typically open well before showtime so guests can purchase food and beverages and settle in.
• Meet-and-greet logistics: The $100 upgrade requires a valid concert ticket and includes signed merchandise and an artist photo; quantities are limited and sold separately through the MACC link.
• Accessibility: Castle Theater provides accessible seating; contact the venue ahead of time for assistance and seating accommodations.

Why this date is special

Maui receives fewer major jazz-fusion bookings than mainland markets or Honolulu, which makes Di Meola’s Castle Theater appearance a standout opportunity to experience a living guitar legend in a world-class acoustic setting on-island. Local media note the concert as a return after many years, with setlist expectations spanning “elegant” early fusion through contemporary compositions that retain rhythmic bite and melodic depth. The MACC’s request for attendees to bring non-perishable donations for Maui Food Bank adds a community-forward dimension to the evening, with incentives for donors including a chance to win a meet-and-greet and signed poster bundle.

Travel pairing for visitors

• Make a weekend of it: Combine the Saturday night concert with daytime Upcountry drives, ʻĪao Valley hikes, or North Shore beach time; the venue’s central Kahului location is convenient from most resort areas.
• Dining: Consider early dinner in Kahului or Wailuku before doors open to avoid intermission lines; on-site vendors are available for bites and drinks pre-show and at intermission.
• Late-night options: Post-show, nearby Wailuku and Kahului spots offer dessert or nightcap possibilities before heading back to resort areas.

Verified details at a glance

• Event: Al Di Meola Electric Band, with special guests Indio & Avi; pre-concert music by Andrew & Jay Molina.
• Date/time: Sat, Sept 6, 2025, 7:30 p.m..
• Venue: Castle Theater, Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului.
• Tickets: Reserved seating; media and venue listings cite tiers from $15 up to a premium level, plus a $100 meet-and-greet upgrade; MACC member early access and discount apply.
• Box office: Online sales only via mauiarts.org; email assistance available for questions.

Al Di Meola’s Electric Band promises a rare, high-voltage night on Maui. Secure seats through the MACC site, consider the meet-and-greet upgrade while it lasts, and arrive early to enjoy the pavilion music and local food and drinks. Whether drawn by the ferocious precision of his fusion years or the global lyricism of recent albums, this is the moment to experience one of the guitar’s defining voices live in an intimate Hawaiian setting.

Maui's only adult hula competition featuring traditional and contemporary Hawaiian dance performances.

Kū Mai Ka Hula 2025 returns to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on Friday and Saturday, September 12–13, for its 18th anniversary as Maui’s only adult hula competition, with a special costuming talk, Designing the ʻAʻahu, opening the weekend on Thursday, September 11. Celebrated for elevating Maui’s hula stories and mele alongside elite performances from Hawaiʻi, Japan, and the continental United States, this two-day festival of kahiko and ʻauana brings top hālau and esteemed judges to Castle Theater, plus craft vendors and ono food in the Yokouchi Pavilion.

Dates, venue, and tickets

• Dates and times:
• Thursday, Sept 11, 7:30 p.m. – Designing the ʻAʻahu (McCoy Studio Theater).
• Friday, Sept 12, 6 p.m. – Solo Competition and Awards; pre-show starts 4:30 p.m. (Castle Theater/Yokouchi Pavilion).
• Saturday, Sept 13, 1 p.m. – Group Competition and Awards; pre-show starts 11:30 a.m. (Castle Theater/Yokouchi Pavilion).
• Venue: Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Castle Theater (competitions) and McCoy Studio Theater (Thursday presentation), Kahului, Maui.
• Tickets: $38 adults; $21 kids 12 and under per day, all fees included; two-day adult package $35/day when purchased together; MACC members receive 10% discount; online-only sales launch Thursday, Aug 14 at 10 a.m. via MauiArts.org; box office window closed, email support available at [email protected].

What makes Kū Mai Ka Hula special

Now in its 18th year, Kū Mai Ka Hula — literally “Hula Appears” — is Maui’s premier annual hula competition and the island’s only contest exclusively for adult dancers, featuring solo, group, and kūpuna divisions in both kahiko (traditional) and ʻauana (modern) styles. It draws award-winning hālau from across Hawaiʻi, Japan, and the continental U.S., and showcases a level of performance comparable to larger statewide competitions, while uniquely centering the stage and audience experience on Maui at the MACC. The 2025 judging panel includes renowned kumu hula from across the pae ʻāina such as Taupori Tangaro, Ulalia Woodside Lee, Maka Herrod, and Cody Pueo Pata, affirming the event’s cultural rigor and prestige.

2025 weekend schedule at a glance

• Designing the ʻAʻahu: A deep dive into the artistry and logistics of hula costuming with accomplished Maui kumu hula, exploring inspiration, materials, sourcing, and the vision behind finishing a hula presentation, held Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the McCoy Studio Theater.
• Friday Solo Competition: Pre-show entertainment in the Yokouchi Pavilion by the Kamehameha Schools Maui Hawaiian Ensemble begins at 4:30 p.m.; soloists take the Castle Theater stage at 6 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony.
• Saturday Group Competition: Pre-show starts 11:30 a.m.; groups compete at 1 p.m., followed by awards; shop made-in-Hawaiʻi craft vendors throughout the day and enjoy food and beverage offerings in the pavilion courtyard.

Cultural focus and community connection

Press and past coverage emphasize Kū Mai Ka Hula’s Maui-centric orientation, with many hālau choosing mele that honor Maui’s places and heritage, even when traveling from afar to perform on island. The event is presented by the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in association with Kauahea Inc., founded by Kumu Hula Hōkūlani Holt to support Hawaiian arts and culture, aligning the competition with year-round cultural education and community engagement on Maui. In keeping with the MACC’s wildfire relief support, patrons are invited to bring non-perishable donations for Maui Food Bank during the competition weekend.

How to get tickets and plan seating

Tickets for both Friday and Saturday go on sale online only at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Aug 14; purchasing both days together secures the two-day adult discount of $35 per day (all fees included). Families benefit from the kids’ pricing at $21 per day for ages 12 and under, and MACC members receive an additional 10% discount at checkout. Because the MACC box office is not open for window sales, buyers should create or verify their MauiArts.org account ahead of the onsale to speed checkout; for accessibility requests or questions, email the box office team.

Tips for attending

• Arrive early for pre-shows: Pavilion entertainment starts well before the competitions and sets the cultural tone; arriving early also gives time to browse artisan booths and grab food and drinks without rushing.
• Dress comfortably and respectfully: Light layers for the air-conditioned theater; culturally mindful attire is appreciated for a Hawaiian cultural event.
• Support local: Bring a tote for purchases from made-in-Hawaiʻi crafters; these vendors are curated for Saturday’s program and connect visitors with authentic island-made products.
• Give back: Consider bringing a non-perishable item for Maui Food Bank to contribute to ongoing community support efforts.

For visiting hula fans

• Make a weekend of it: Pair Friday evening and Saturday afternoon competitions with morning visits to ʻĪao Valley and Wailuku’s historic core, or an early beach walk before the group competition.
• Transportation and parking: MACC has ample on-site parking, but plan extra time Friday evening; rideshare is convenient from central and West Maui lodging.
• Where to sit: Castle Theater provides excellent sightlines across tiers; if attending both days, consider varying seat locations to experience different visual perspectives of formations and adornments.

For prospective competitors and hālau

The official Kū Mai Ka Hula site invites interested hālau to inquire about participating, noting the competition’s 18th anniversary in 2025 and sponsorship support for the event. The About page highlights divisions and styling, underscoring that Ms. and Mr. Hula Maui as well as group categories feature both kahiko and ʻauana performances that foreground disciplined technique and storytelling through mele and hula. With a judging panel drawn from respected kumu across Hawaiʻi, entrants can expect culturally informed criteria and feedback commensurate with the competition’s reputation.

Verified details at a glance

• Title: 18th Annual Kū Mai Ka Hula — Maui’s only adult hula competition.
• When: Sept 12 (Solo, 6 p.m., pre-show 4:30 p.m.) and Sept 13 (Group, 1 p.m., pre-show 11:30 a.m.); Designing the ʻAʻahu panel Sept 11, 7:30 p.m..
• Where: Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Castle Theater; McCoy Studio Theater for Thursday panel; Yokouchi Pavilion for pre-shows and vendors.
• Tickets: On sale Aug 14 at 10 a.m. online only; $38 adults/$21 kids per day; two-day adult bundle $35/day; MACC members 10% off.
• Judges and hālau: Award-winning hālau from Hawaiʻi, Japan, and the continental U.S.; judging by esteemed kumu hula including Taupori Tangaro, Ulalia Woodside Lee, Maka Herrod, and Cody Pueo Pata.

Kū Mai Ka Hula is a rare chance to experience world-class hula through Maui’s lens, with intimate theater acoustics, close-up views of kapa, lei, and ʻaʻahu, and mele that speak directly to this island’s past and present. Secure tickets the moment they go on sale, plan to enjoy the pre-show music and marketplace, and be part of a weekend that honors tradition, celebrates excellence, and welcomes everyone who loves hula to gather in aloha at the MACC.

Prestigious Hawaiian falsetto singing competition celebrating traditional Hawaiian vocal traditions.

The 23rd Annual Richard Ho‘opi‘i Leo Kīkēkīe Falsetto Contest will fill the ballroom at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua on Saturday, September 20, 2025, honoring Hawai‘i’s cherished male falsetto tradition with an elegant evening of mele, culture, and friendly competition as part of Maui Nui’s Festivals of Aloha season. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the contest begins at 6:30 p.m., with applications and tickets managed through the Festivals of Aloha hub, which coordinates the countywide cultural series each September and October. This signature event uplifts amateur male soloists who perform leo kīkēkīe — Hawai‘i’s distinctive falsetto style — to preserve a living art form closely associated with the late, beloved Maui icon Uncle Richard Ho‘opi‘i, the contest’s founder and namesake.

Date, place, and how to attend

• Date and time: Saturday, Sept 20, 2025. Doors 5:30 p.m., contest 6:30 p.m..
• Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, which has become a celebrated home for the contest in recent years, adding sophistication to a deeply cultural night.
• Tickets and entries: Applications for amateur male soloists and ticket information are directed through festivalsofaloha.com; follow the official site and social channels for live links and any remaining availability as the date approaches.

What the contest celebrates

Founded by Uncle Richard Ho‘opi‘i of The Ho‘opi‘i Brothers, the contest was designed to provide a championship opportunity for amateur falsetto singers while creating a dynamic platform to perpetuate Hawai‘i’s unique falsetto traditions for future generations. Uncle Richard’s own stature in Hawaiian music — Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner and Lifetime Achievement honoree, Grammy Award co-recipient, and National Endowment for the Arts Folk Heritage Fellow — continues to set the standard for musicianship, humility, and entertainment values the contest seeks to uphold each year.

Who can enter and how it works

The competition focuses on amateur male soloists and includes rules crafted to keep the emphasis on voice, mele, and cultural integrity. Past calls for entries have highlighted that contestants must be amateur male solo vocalists who have not released a solo album or won another falsetto championship, with accompanying oneself on ʻukulele or guitar encouraged and weighted positively by the judging rubric; contestants relying solely on backup musicians historically receive lower accompaniment scores to recognize the added difficulty of self-accompaniment while singing falsetto. The evening typically features multiple rounds of mele selections, Hawaiian language emphasis, musicianship, stage presence, and cultural protocol, with awards for top placements and special recognitions such as Hawaiian Language or Musicianship honors.

Legacy and recent champions

The Falsetto Contest has helped raise the profile of numerous Maui and Hawai‘i Island performers while energizing a new generation of singers. In 2024, Maui’s Antonio “Akoni” Robles won the 22nd annual contest at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua with a moving rendition of “Waikaloa,” earning top honors on a night that organizers said saw the strongest contestant turnout in years. Winners receive cash prizes and notable awards, often including premium instruments and performance opportunities in other Festivals of Aloha showcases, reinforcing the event’s role as both a cultural platform and an artistic springboard.

Within the Festivals of Aloha

The Falsetto Contest is a pillar of Maui County’s celebrated Festivals of Aloha, Maui Nui Style, a seven-week cultural program of pageantry, hula, mele, parades, street parties, and family activities across Maui, Lāna‘i, Moloka‘i, Hāna, and Wailea each September and October. In 2025, the theme “Hahai nō ka Ua i ka Ululā‘au – Rains Always Follow the Forests” honors the Year of Our Community Forests and connects heritage to stewardship, a spirit that infuses the contest’s dedication to preserving leo kīkēkīe through living practice and public celebration.

What to expect on the night

• Elegant setting: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua’s ballroom setting enhances sound, lighting, and audience comfort, framing the intimate art of falsetto with the dignity it deserves.
• Cultural protocol: The program interweaves mele with Hawaiian language and cultural protocol, reflecting the contest’s commitment to authenticity and aloha.
• Community and aloha: The audience often includes kumu hula, musicians, kūpuna, and families from across Maui Nui and beyond, creating a supportive atmosphere where each contestant is encouraged as a steward of a cherished tradition.

Travel and planning tips

• Arrivals and parking: Kapalua is about 15–20 minutes north of Kāʻanapali and 25–30 minutes north of Lahaina; plan extra time for resort arrival and to enjoy pre-show networking and seating.
• Dress code: Smart island attire suits the ballroom setting; a light layer is helpful for hotel air-conditioning.
• Respect and protocol: Be mindful during Hawaiian language announcements, oli, or mele; silence phones and refrain from flash photography or videography if restricted for contestants’ comfort.
• Extend the weekend: Pair the Saturday contest with daytime Kā‘anapali or Kapalua coastal walks, a morning snorkel, or a Sunday visit to Wailuku or ʻĪao Valley, aligning with other Festivals of Aloha happenings the same month.

For prospective contestants

• Prepare early: Review entry criteria and deadlines on festivalsofaloha.com, select mele that suit your range and storytelling, and practice self-accompaniment if possible to maximize scoring potential.
• Cultural mentorship: Seek guidance from Hawaiian language teachers or cultural practitioners to refine pronunciation, kaona (poetic meaning), and stage protocol — these details resonate with judges and audience alike.
• Stage craft: Focus on breath control, clarity at higher tessitura, and pacing that prioritizes diction and emotion over speed; the best falsetto performances carry both technical brilliance and heartfelt connection.

Why this contest matters

Leo kīkēkīe is one of Hawai‘i’s most distinctive vocal traditions. By centering amateur male soloists and showcasing their voices at a marquee hotel ballroom within a countywide cultural festival, this event ensures that falsetto is not just archived but actively lived, learned, and loved in the present. The partnership between Festivals of Aloha and community sponsors has also produced recordings such as “Hawaiian Falsetto Vol. 1,” which won multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards and serves as both a legacy document and an inspiration for new entrants.

Verified details at a glance

• Event: 23rd Annual Richard Ho‘opi‘i Leo Kīkēkīe Falsetto Contest.
• Date and time: Saturday, Sept 20, 2025; doors 5:30 p.m., contest 6:30 p.m..
• Place: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.
• Tickets and entries: Via festivalsofaloha.com; follow official channels for updates and availability.
• Mission: A championship platform for amateur male falsetto singers and the preservation of Hawai‘i’s unique leo kīkēkīe tradition, founded by Uncle Richard Ho‘opi‘i.

Celebrate the soaring beauty of Hawaiian falsetto where it belongs — live, among friends, kūpuna, and cultural practitioners who keep this voice alive. Reserve seats for Sept 20 at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, encourage a talented friend to enter, and be part of an unforgettable night that honors Uncle Richard’s legacy while inspiring the next generation to lift their voices in aloha.

98th annual county fair returns after 6-year absence with E.K. Fernandez rides, 44 food booths, daily entertainment, and traditional parade.

Maui County Fair 2025 returns Thursday to Sunday, October 2–5, 2025, at the War Memorial Special Events Complex in Wailuku, bringing back the full fair experience with E.K. Fernandez rides, the traditional opening parade, daily entertainment, and 40-plus nonprofit food booths after a six-year hiatus. The County of Maui has committed $1.5 million to revive the beloved event, with Festivals of Aloha executive director Daryl Fujiwara coordinating the 98th Maui County Fair in partnership with county agencies, community organizations, and sponsors to restore a tradition that has welcomed as many as 90,000 attendees in past years.

Dates, location, and what’s new

• Dates: Thursday–Sunday, Oct 2–5, 2025.
• Location: War Memorial Special Events Complex, Wailuku.
• What’s new: E.K. Fernandez rides return to Maui with a new cashless app for ride purchases, replacing the old card system, and a larger county role in funding and operations to ensure the fair’s comeback in 2025.

The county announced the return in July with a detailed rides list, underscoring a commitment to joy and safety after a long pause since 2019 due to the pandemic and financial challenges. Mayor Richard Bissen called the fair a chance to reconnect, heal, and move forward together as one ‘ohana, with food, fun, and community traditions that reflect Maui’s identity.

Rides, parade, food, and entertainment

A robust slate of E.K. Fernandez amusements has been confirmed, including family favorites and thrill rides: Dizzy Dragons, Helicopter, Magic Maze, Merry-Go-Round, Lolli Swings, Pharaoh’s Fury, Scooter, Seven Seas, Super Sizzler, Super Slide, Wacky Worm, Wave Swinger, and Zero Gravity, with Fernandez also bringing concession trailers for funnel cakes and cotton candy. The traditional opening parade is slated to return along Kaʻahumanu Avenue ahead of opening night at the fairgrounds, bringing marching bands, floats, and community groups to the route before gates open at War Memorial.

Inside the grounds, organizers are targeting 44 nonprofit food booths serving local classics alongside carnival treats, with plans to revive daily entertainment and bring back popular contests such as the Healthy Baby Contest, with additional competitions under consideration as logistics finalize. Vendor applications for nonprofits opened in July with an August 8 deadline via themauifair.com, and organizers are also coordinating transportation options to help residents of Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi attend during the weekend.

Admission and ticketing

The fair has announced general admission pricing at $10 for adults and $5 for children, with ride access purchased separately via the E.K. Fernandez mobile app; a cash-loading solution is in development for attendees who prefer not to use cards in the app. As entertainment, vendor, and contest schedules publish, the official site themauifair.com and county channels will list daily hours, parade timing, and gate details so families can plan their visits around performances and special events.

Why the fair matters this year

After 2019, the fair experienced years of disruption. In 2025, the county’s appropriation and hands-on coordination reflect a shared determination to revive a cherished gathering — an event that feeds local nonprofits, showcases island agriculture and youth programs, and gives keiki and kūpuna a joyful place to gather. County statements highlight the fair as a pathway to “reconnect, heal, and move forward,” an ethos felt across the parade, exhibits, and the return of the Joy Zone rides.

Behind-the-scenes rebuild

Even with $1.5 million committed, organizers face large new costs to reconstruct food booths and update electrical infrastructure. Festival coordinator Daryl Fujiwara told the County Council’s Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee that none of the old booths were salvageable, estimating roughly $340,000 to rebuild 44 booths and another $180,000 for electrical, creating a fundraising target of around $500,000 beyond the county appropriation to fully resource the fairgrounds. Community partners and sponsors are being courted to bridge the gap and ensure nonprofit food vendors can safely serve throughout the weekend.

Practical planning tips

• Getting there: The War Memorial Special Events Complex has multiple parking areas; opening night is busiest around the parade and gates opening, so arrive early or plan to come later in the evening after parade traffic clears.
• Using rides: Download the E.K. Fernandez rides app in advance to load funds and avoid lines; the old card system is retired, and a cash-loading option is being finalized for 2025.
• Budgeting: Set aside funds for admission, rides, and nonprofit food booth favorites; many community organizations rely on fair proceeds for year-round programs.
• Family strategy: Stagger ride times with show schedules and meal breaks; plan a meet-up point and consider noise protection for little ones near the main stage and ride zones.
• Accessibility: Check themauifair.com as the fair approaches for updated gate hours, accessibility routes, stroller-friendly areas, and reserved parking information.

What to eat and where to explore

Nonprofit booths are the fair’s culinary heartbeat. Expect local plate lunch classics, teri sticks, chow fun, laulau, shave ice, butter mochi, and specialty items unique to each group’s booth. E.K. Fernandez will also add funnel cakes and cotton candy to the mix for a balance of local and carnival flavors. Between meals, wander exhibits that spotlight school clubs, agriculture, robotics, and cultural programs, and catch daily entertainment across stages to discover Maui’s next generation of performers.

For out-of-town visitors

Pair a fair evening with daytime exploration: ʻĪao Valley and Wailuku Town are minutes away, while Kīhei and Kāʻanapali beach days fit nicely before a late-afternoon fair visit. If traveling from West or South Maui, plan extra drive time for parade day and weekend traffic, and consider mid-day or later-evening fair arrivals for a more relaxed pace.

How to get involved

• Nonprofits: Apply for food and vendor spots via themauifair.com; the 2025 deadline for food booths was Aug 8, but interest forms remain open for other roles.
• Sponsors and volunteers: Contact the fair via the official site to support booth rebuilding, electrical upgrades, transportation, or program areas that enhance safety and guest experience.
• Parade groups: Marching bands, school clubs, and community groups can register through the site to bring Maui pride to Kaʻahumanu Avenue on opening night.

Verified details at a glance

• Name: 98th Maui County Fair.
• Dates: Oct 2–5, 2025.
• Place: War Memorial Special Events Complex, Wailuku.
• Parade: Traditional opening parade down Kaʻahumanu Avenue before gates open.
• Rides: E.K. Fernandez Joy Zone returns; app required for ride purchases.
• Food booths: 44 nonprofit booths planned; vendor apps via themauifair.com.
• Admission: $10 adults; $5 children; ride purchases separate via app.
• Organizer: Festivals of Aloha executive director Daryl Fujiwara under County of Maui sponsorship; $1.5M county funding committed; additional $500k fundraising need identified for infrastructure.

Maui is ready for the lights, music, rides, and flavors that make the county fair a community treasure. Mark Oct 2–5 on the calendar, download the E.K. Fernandez app, and bring the whole ʻohana to War Memorial for a weekend of togetherness that supports local nonprofits and celebrates Maui’s spirit. Watch themauifair.com and county channels for the parade route, hours, entertainment schedule, and vendor lineup — then come hungry, ride ready, and eager to make new fair memories on Maui.

Annual culinary celebration featuring over 150 internationally renowned chefs, wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and grand tastings.

Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (HFWF) returns October 18–November 2, 2025, with more than two weeks of chef‑curated events across Oʻahu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island, and a flagship weekend on Oʻahu beginning Friday, October 24 that features large‑format tastings, intimate collaboration dinners, and hands‑on culinary experiences led by Michelin‑recognized chefs, acclaimed local talent, and top winemakers and mixologists from around the world. The official 2025 festival listing highlights this 13th annual edition as a destination‑wide celebration of Hawaiʻi’s ingredients, sustainability leadership, and hospitality culture, with tickets released in waves and popular events expected to sell out in advance.

Dates, locations, and the Oct 24 focus

• Festival window: Oct 18–Nov 2, 2025, spanning multiple weekends and islands, with Oʻahu hosting a concentrated series of marquee events starting Friday, Oct 24.
• Islands: Core programming on Oʻahu, with additional signature events historically staged on Maui and Hawaiʻi Island; the tourism listing confirms multi‑island participation for 2025.
• Format: Large outdoor tastings, collaboration dinners, wine and spirits seminars, farm‑to‑table experiences, and chef‑led classes that showcase Hawaiʻi’s regional flavors and diverse culinary influences.

What makes HFWF unique

Co‑founded by chefs Roy Yamaguchi and Alan Wong, HFWF was built to champion Hawaiʻi’s farmers, fishers, and food entrepreneurs while advancing sustainable agriculture and food security; the festival functions as a nonprofit with proceeds supporting local culinary and agricultural programs through grants and partnerships. The programming pairs world‑renowned chefs with Hawaiʻi’s ingredients and cultural narratives, creating dishes that reflect place while spotlighting regenerative practices and supply‑chain resilience that matter to island communities.

The Oct 24–26 Oʻahu weekend

The Oʻahu kick‑off weekend traditionally features:

• A headline Friday night tasting with 15–30 chef stations, premium wine and spirits pours, and live entertainment that sets the tone for the week ahead.
• Saturday collaboration dinners at leading hotels and restaurants, where visiting chefs team with local stars on multi‑course menus built around Hawaiʻi produce and fisheries.
• Sunday experiences that may include a family‑friendly daytime tasting or a themed gala, often with sustainability or cultural storytelling integrated into menus and decor.

Exact chef lineups, venues, and themes are released in waves; the tourism board advises monitoring updates and joining the mailing list to secure first access to ticket drops for this popular timeframe.

Chefs, winemakers, and talent

HFWF curates a blend of Michelin‑recognized chefs, Food Network personalities, and acclaimed local figures from Oʻahu’s dynamic dining scene, with master sommeliers, importers, and winemakers presenting alongside spirits brands in tailored seminars and pairing dinners. The mix of international and Hawaiʻi voices expands palates while grounding each event in the islands’ agricultural context, from Kona coffee and cacao to Kauaʻi shrimp, Maui onions, and Oʻahu greens grown on revitalized ag lands.

Sustainability and community impact

Festival design emphasizes:

• Local sourcing: Menus prioritize Hawaiʻi‑grown produce, line‑caught fish, and pasture‑raised meats to lower food miles and support island producers.
• Waste reduction: Events build in composting, recycling, and reusables to minimize environmental footprint; seminars and tours often explore regenerative agriculture and aquaculture innovations.
• Giving back: Proceeds fund scholarships, culinary training, school garden programs, and producer grants that strengthen Hawaiʻi’s food system year‑round.

Ticketing and how to plan

• Rolling releases: Tickets are released event‑by‑event; high‑demand tastings and chef collaborations around Oct 24 tend to sell out first, so early purchase is essential.
• Budgeting: Pricing varies by format. Large tastings offer broad variety and strong value, while chef collabs and seminars provide intimate access at premium tiers. Build a mix to match interests and budget.
• Flexibility: Create an anchor plan for Oct 24–26 on Oʻahu, then add mid‑week classes or second‑weekend island hops to Maui or Hawaiʻi Island if schedules align.

Sample weekend strategy (Oct 24–26)

• Friday (Oct 24): Book the flagship Oʻahu tasting for maximum variety and energy; arrive early to scout stations and pace courses around featured wines and cocktails.
• Saturday (Oct 25): Reserve a collaboration dinner with a chef whose cuisine resonates; look for menus highlighting kalo, ʻulu, kūlolo, or reef‑safe fisheries for deeper cultural and sustainability connections.
• Sunday (Oct 26): Choose a seminar, family‑friendly tasting, or a finale gala; finish with a beach walk or sunset pau hana to savor the weekend’s flavors.

Travel and logistics

• Where to stay: Waikīkī and Kakaʻako place guests near many Oʻahu venues and make rideshare logistics simple on tasting nights; Ala Moana offers quick access to dining corridors and beachfront parks.
• Getting around: Use rideshare or taxis for tasting nights; hydrate and plan a late start the next day. Parking at hotel venues is limited and often validated only for short durations.
• What to pack: Smart‑casual evening wear, comfortable shoes for standing tastings, a light layer for trade winds, and a small notebook or phone notes for favorite pours and producers.

Cultural etiquette and responsible enjoyment

• Aloha spirit: Staff the “aloha table” with patience and kindness. Thank chefs and volunteers; many are local students or producers sharing their craft.
• Respect for place: Follow reef‑safe sunscreen guidance, stay mindful of waste sorting, and honor any cultural protocols or blessing moments that open flagship events.
• Pace yourself: Alternate wine and spirits with water. Use palate cleansers between bold stations to better appreciate subtle courses later in the evening.

Beyond the plate: tours and classes

While headline tastings draw the biggest crowds, HFWF’s classes and farm tours deliver some of the most memorable learning:

• Coffee, cacao, and rum: Explore Hawaiʻi Island or Oʻahu producers who connect terroir to cup and glass, often with tasting flights and pairing bites.
• Aquaculture and fisheries: Sessions may highlight loko iʻa (fishpond) revitalization, reef‑friendly sourcing, and modern aquaculture that protects wild stocks.
• Chef techniques: Hands‑on classes and demos teach tiki cocktail builds, poke seasoning, or pastry techniques tuned to island ingredients.

For families and mixed groups

Look for daytime events flagged as family‑friendly, with tasting tokens or mini‑menus that let non‑drinkers participate fully. Build in beach time, museum visits, or hikes between events to balance the schedule and keep energy high for evening tastings.

Why Oct 24 matters

The Oct 24 Oʻahu weekend serves as a major pivot point in the festival’s arc, condensing star power and producer showcases into a single, easy‑to‑plan window for travelers who want the “best of HFWF” in three days. It is also the weekend most likely to sell out across formats, making it the smart focus for early planners who want high energy, variety, and access to acclaimed chefs and winemakers in one place.

Verified details at a glance

• Event: Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (13th annual).
• Dates: Oct 18–Nov 2, 2025; flagship Oʻahu weekend begins Fri, Oct 24.
• Islands: Oʻahu, with additional events on Maui and Hawaiʻi Island.
• Format: Signature tastings, collaboration dinners, seminars, classes, farm and fishery experiences.
• Tickets: Released in waves; join mailing lists and purchase early for Oct 24–26 formats.
• Mission: Support Hawaiʻi agriculture and culinary education; advance sustainability and local sourcing.

Mark the calendar for Friday, October 24, then build a delicious long weekend around Oʻahu’s flagship tastings, dinners, and classes. Secure tickets as they drop, book a stay with easy venue access, and come ready to savor Hawaiʻi’s ingredients and hospitality at their peak. Follow the festival listing for lineup and ticket releases, and get set to taste the islands through the chefs and producers who are shaping Hawaiʻi’s culinary future today.