20th Annual Maui Matsuri Kickoff Event Tonight

The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui is celebrating the 20th Annual Maui Matsuri with a trio of virtual and in-person events on Nov. 15, 19 and 20.

The schedule of events kicks off with a virtual Japanese trivia contest, followed by the International Culture Night and the Maui Matsuri Festival – both of which will be held at Queen Kaʻahumanu Shopping Center Stage.

Maui Matsuri Festival Event Schedule:

• Virtual Japanese Trivia Contest presented by Mystery Maui
  • Monday, Nov. 15 at 8-9 p.m. Happening tonight!
  • Register for free: https://bit.ly/Matsuri2021
  • If you have an interest in Japanese culture, history, food, and current events, you will enjoy this free, hour-long game!

• International Culture Night presented by A&B
  • Friday, Nov. 19 at 6-9 p.m.
  • Queen Kaʻahumanu Center Stage
  • The free multi-cultural event includes entertainment celebrating Japanese, Chinese, Hawaiian, Filipino, Scottish, Puerto Rican, Korean (K-Pop) and Portuguese cultures as well as an international fashion show incorporating Vietnamese styles.

• Maui Matsuri Festival presented by Island Honda
  • Saturday, Nov. 20 at 3-8 p.m.
  • Queen Kaʻahumanu Center Stage
  • The free festival features entertainment including taiko, Japanese folk dancing, Kendo and community obon. Two rounds of obon are scheduled at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, which will be limited to 100 dancers for each set in compliance with County of Maui emergency orders approved by the Office of the Mayor. 

Obon dancers should register by visiting the Maui Matsuri website at www.mauimatsuri.com. All registered dancers are encouraged to check in on the day of the event to receive a complimentary gift. Obon dancing will occur on both levels around the Queen Kaʻahumanu Center stage to allow for social distancing.

Maui actress, entertainer and radio personality Kathy Collins will be emceeing both evenings and also sharing her Japanese “Issun-boshi” story on Saturday afternoon. Dazz Toguchi, a Japanese classical dancer from Oʻahu, will also headline the Saturday event with three appearances. Other entertainment includes Martial Arts Demos, a Cosplay Showcase and free giveaways.

The Maui Matsuri is presented by the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui and major sponsors include the County of Maui Office of Economic Development, Island Honda, Maui Taiko, and the Queen Kaʻahumanu Center.