WHO/WHAT: Maui Matsuri commemorates the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the Gannenmono with several days of celebrating all things Japanese on the Valley Isle. Now in its 18th year, Maui Matsuri began in 1999 as a Japanese festival along Market Street in Wailuku. Today, the festival transforms the UH Maui College campus into a Japanese village with food stalls, craft vendors, entertainment and activities for all ages.
WHEN/WHERE: Friday, May 4, 6-9 p.m., the “Musical Extravaganza” will be held at UH Maui College’s Great Lawn, featuring multicultural entertainment, including a performance by the San Francisco Awa Odori group, Awakko Ren. The film, “Go For Broke: An Origin Story,” will be screened at Iao Theater in Wailuku at 6 p.m.
On Saturday, May 5, 2-9 p.m., Maui Matsuri will feature food booths, cultural exhibits, a cosplay exhibition and more. The festival concludes with a community bon dance that begins at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 9.
FREE ADMISSION with charges for food and certain activities. Maui Matsuri is presented by the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui and supported by other community partners. For more information, visit www.mauimatsuri.com.
