Wailuku First Friday Celebrates OctoberFEST

By Wendy Osher

Gene Argel and Ohana band at Café O Lei.

Strolling magicians, street vendors and live local entertainment come together for tonight’s OctoberFEST edition of First Friday in Wailuku.

The event transforms Wailuku Town into a high-energy street festival from 6 to 9 p.m. on Market Street, with participation from businesses throughout Wailuku town.

Maui-Made Music:

Local sensation, Moth XP, headlines tonight’s festivities.  Working its multi-sensory magic on the Maui Thing stage, Moth XP uses all-original sets that take musical creation to new heights.  Their unadulterated sound is made without the use of any loops or prerecorded tracks.

Other musical entertainment includes the sweet strumming of the Kalama Intermediate School Ukulele Band, under the direction of Benny Uyetake.   The group will appear at 6 p.m. at the Wailuku Banyan Tree Park stage.

First Friday favorite, the Gene Argell band, returns for an intimate performance at Café O Lei nearby.

Strolling Magicians:

Magician Timothy Wenk, who has performed in Europe, Japan and across America will be joined on the street by Brenton Keith with his “Bag o’ Tricks.” The two strolling magicians entertain crowds with their sleight-of-hand and comic banter.

Food and Fare for a Cause:

Wailuku retailer, Native Intelligence will be selling fresh kulolo, Hawaiian food, and will open its awa bar.

Also, returning this month is the beer garden, featuring cold drafts.  Proceeds benefit Na Leo Kako`o, Hawaiian Immersion Kula Kaiapuni.

You are Here: Mapping of Hawaii at the Bailey House

A “Mapping of Hawaii” exhibit at Bailey House Museum (toward Iao Valley at 2375-A Main Street) will offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s geographical past, from Polynesian migrations and European explorations to the Kingdom of Hawaii and the state’s missionary and plantation days.

The exhibit, which is free to the public tonight from 5:30-8:00 p.m., tells the story of discovery, adventure and conflict in Hawaii through dozens of large-scale reproductions of historic maps and prints.

Art and Food Abounds Across Wailuku:

Artisans, crafters, sidewalk vendors and a rainbow of local cuisine can all be enjoyed streetside along Market Street. Other delights await along Vineyard, Church and up to Main Street as Wailuku First Friday expands to neighboring streets.

Be on the lookout for the innovative local talent, art and healthy treats that will be showcased from 5 to 9 p.m. at EXHALE, located at 1995 Main Street on the second floor.

Also, view the work of Swan Interiors’ featured artist Anna Good, and indulge in sweet and savory crepes and special desserts at Maui Bake Shop on Church Street.

Wailuku First Friday is sponsored by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the County of Maui, Tri-Isle RC&D, Inc., Sae Design, Maui Thing, Maui Redevelopment Agency, KPOA 93.5 FM, Maui Breakfast Club on KNUI AM900, First Hawaiian Bank, American Savings Bank, Kamaaina Properties, Wailuku Community Association, Maui Time, IBEW Local 1186, Hawaii Carpenters Union-Maui, Young Brothers Ltd., Café O’ Lei, If the Shoe Fits, and Connec, LLC.