Makawao Gets New Signs Just in Time for Town Party

By Wendy Osher

Makawao Friday Town Parties logo.

New signs have been installed in the quaint town of Makawao on Maui, identifying the area as a Historic Town.

The large, brown signs placed along Haleakala Highway were recently installed by the State Department of Transportation in coordination with Council Member Mike White, and Mayor Alan Arakawa and staff.  The initial request was made by the Makawao Community Association.

White said he hopes the signs will bring a direct financial benefit by making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy the shopping, dining, and overall experience of Historic Makawao Town.

“This is a great boost for Makawao, at a time when our small-town businesses need all the help they can get,” said Council Member White. “We’re very grateful for the responsiveness and timely assistance of Fred Cajigal, State Highways Maui District Engineering Program Manager,” said White.

A band entertains revelers at Makawao Third Friday. Image by Maui Now staff.

Tonight the town hosts the Makawao Gives: A Hawaiian Holiday Party, the holiday edition of their third Friday montly town party. The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. Musicians and food vendors will be featured around town with raffles and special discounts offered at participating shops and businesses.

Also happening tonight in Makawao, there is a Real Paniolo Country Christmas Parade from 5 to 6 p.m.; and a Bull Bash Christmas rodeo from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Oskie Rice Arena. The Bull Bash continues Saturday and Sunday at 9 a.m., with a $2 entry fee going toward the Hawaii Children’s Cancer Foundation.

The County of Maui has set up parking arrangements to help manage traffic during tonight’s holiday celebration.

The following are areas the public can park if they are attending either the Real Paniolo Country Christmas Parade or the Makawao Third Friday Party.

• Makawao Hongwanji Mission, located at 1074 Makawao Avenue. Parking costs $5 and proceeds benefit the Makawao Hongwanji and the Maui County Veterans Association. Parking is available from 4 to 9 p.m. and vehicles remaining after 9:30 p.m. will be towed.
• Maui County Public Works Baseyard, located at 1295 Makawao Avenue across the street from St. Joseph’s Church.
• Oskie Rice Arena, located at 102 Maha Road. Parking costs $2 and benefits youth soccer. A free shuttle bus donated by Valley Isle Ford will take people from the arena and drop them off in front of the Randy Jay Braun Gallery in Makawao Town from 4 to 5 p.m. and again after the parade is done from 6 to 7 p.m.