Hawai‘i Island’s much-anticipated Wailea Village Mochi Pounding will be held on Saturday, Dec. 28, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Akiko’s Buddhist B&B in Hakalau (15 mile marker) along the Hämäkua Coast. The community mochi pounding that attracts residents and visitors alike is in its 22nd year. A short film on the event by Easten Tanimoto can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRF8koHnznE&t=8s.
Last year’s Wailea Village mochi pounding attracted over 1,000 residents and visitors of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds. A chicken hekka plate prepared by Miyo’s Restaurant of Hilo can be purchased for $5 beginning at 10 a.m. A vegetarian selection will also be available.
There will also be New Year’s crafts and calligraphy, kadomatsu (pine and bamboo arrangement) making, goodies made by the Hakalau Seniors, entertainment, massages, plant sales and more.
The event is open and free of charge to the public. For more information, call Akiko’s B&B at (808) 963-6422, or email msakiko@hawaii.rr.com.
