Maui Fair Attendance Up on Day 1

By Wendy Osher

Photo of 2011 Maui Fair parade, courtesy KPOA 93.5 FM/Alaka'i Paleka.

Today is day two of the 89th Maui Fair. Managing Director, Sherri Grimes said attendance on day one of the four-day event was slightly up about 100 people over last year–not including all of the volunteers and parade participants.

There were an estimated 7,330 paid gate attendees last night, plus about 1,000 volunteers.

Fair officials say the parade this year was the largest ever with 5,600 people participating.

Morning festivities today are dedicated to those with physical or mental limitations that preclude their attendance at the event during regular operating hours. The Special Fair Day runs from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Photo of 2011 Maui Fair parade, courtesy KPOA 93.5 FM/Alaka'i Paleka.

Special Fair entertainment includes an opening by Zenshin Daiko, followed by a welcome by Mayor Alan Arakawa. There will also be a performance by Team Think Pink Zumba, the Ukulele Pops Band of Maui, Exergy 35 Performing Martial Arts Group, Maui Cartoon Characters and music by Damien Awai and friends.

The regular fair resumes at 5:30 tonight featuring entertainment by Manali’i, Ikaika Blackburn, Piilani Arias, and Keoni Souza, along with Halau Kekuaokalaaualailiahi, Keiki Hula 2011 Kahoku Benavides, and Halau Kahanalehua under the direction of Kumu Kamaka Kukona.

Photo of 2011 Maui Fair parade, courtesy KPOA 93.5 FM/Alaka'i Paleka.

At 9 p.m. 12 contestants vie for the title in Maui’s Got Voice talent contest; and Hypnotist James Kellogg Jr. puts on a mesmerizing show to close the night. Gates remain open until midnight.