St. John’s Kula Festival, an Upcountry Tradition for 33 Years

The St. John’s Kula Festival is an Upcountry tradition for 33 years. Photo credit: St. Johns Episcopal Church.

By Maui Now Staff

The St. John’s Episcopal Church hosts its 33rd Kula Festival on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18 and 19 on the church grounds in Keōkea.

Because of its popularity, organizers have added another night, with a wine and heavy pūpū extravaganza planned on Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., in addition to a full day of festivities on Saturday, from 9 to 4 p.m.

Friday’s nighttime event features entertainment by Gordean Bailey’s Hālau Wehiwehi O Leilehua, as well as a VIP preview of a silent auction and exclusive access to the live auction for premium items such as trips, art and activities.

The St. John’s Kula Festival is the place to get homemade jams and jellies, farm fresh produce and a large assortment of plants. Photo credit: St. Johns Episcopal Church.

The event on Saturday features a traditional family friendly atmosphere with food, entertainment and activities for the keiki.

Food items include waffles with Kula strawberries, Portuguese bean soup and David Fullaway’s famous fabulous fudge.

There will also be fresh plants, produce and fruits from Upcountry growers and farmers.

The entertainment lineup includes: Kumu Uluwehi Guerrero’s choir, Nā Leo Lani O Maui; the Chop Suey Jazz Orchestra; Eric Molina & Jamie Gallo; Nā Hanona Kulike ʻO Piʻilani led by Nā Kumu Hula Kaponoʻai Molitau and Sissy Lake-Farm; Andrew Molina; Hālau Hula Wehena O Ke Ao under the direction of Makaʻala Palmore; the Asher Family “Mo Chroi” with bagpipes, singing and dancing; and Eric Molina as emcee.

Beneficiaries of the event include: Hospice Maui and Imua Family Services, as well as St. John’s.  Admission is $1 per person.  Kids 10 and under get in free.  There is also a $10 charge for a children’s wristband with allows kids 5 and up all-day access to games.  More information is available at the St. John’s Church website.