WHO/WHAT: “Feel the Uchinanchu Spirit!” is the theme of the Maui Okinawan Festival, presented by the Maui Okinawan Kenjin Kai (MOKK), and co-sponsor Maui Mall.
The entertainment program will feature continuous Okinawan music and dance, taiko and sanshin players, and martial arts demonstrations. Special guest performers will be Chinagu Eisa, a popular drumming group from O‘ahu.
Vendors will sell arts, crafts and jewelry. Professional photo sessions in traditional Okinawan wear will also be available for children and adults, with all proceeds to benefit MOKK. A country store will feature homemade pickles, jams and jellies, maki sushi, baked goods, and different types of mochi. In addition, there will be games and activities for the keiki and festival T-shirts for sale.
Of course, no Okinawan festival is complete without lots of Okinawan food. Among the offerings are pig’s feet soup; an Okinawan plate lunch, chow fun, andagi and more!
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Maui Mall in Kahului. For more information on the festival, call the Maui Okinawan Cultural Center at 242-1560.
COST: Admission is free. Cost for some activities and food.