Maui Matsuri Kicks Off on Friday, May 8

Maui Matsuri. File image courtesy Maui Matsuri.

By Maui Now Staff

The 2015 Maui Matsuri will kick off on Friday, May 8, at 6:30 p.m. at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center’s Center Stage with taiko performances, karate demonstrations, Japanese dancing and other entertainment.

The kickoff event will also feature minyo (folk) dancing, prize giveaways, a coloring contest sponsored by Sanrio, an appearance by Hello Kitty and more.

The event will conclude with bon odori (bon dance) practice around the stage from approximately 8:15 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The purpose of this free event is to engage the community and bring public awareness to the upcoming 15th Annual Maui Matsuri on Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16.

Friday will include a movie featuring the return of Kikaida in the Maui premiere of “Kikaider Reboot”).Saturday’s event will include a festival featuring food booths, kids crafts and games, entertainment, contests and more.

Admission to all Maui Matsuri events is free.

The event sponsored in part by Araki-Regan & Associates LLC.

For more information about the Maui Matsuri kickoff event, call the festival hotline at (808) 283-9999 or go online.