56th Annual Makawao Parade winners announced

The 56^th Annual Makawao Parade in Makawao Town concluded on Saturday, June 29, 2024.  The Makawao Parade has long been a cherished tradition, bringing together residents, businesses and visitors to celebrate the vibrant culture and heritage of Makawao Town.

” It was a beautiful sunny day with parade entries of ‘live’ bands, floats, horses, political, classic cars and so much more,” said event organizers. 

With more than 50 parade participants this year, the 56^th Annual Makawao Parade committee reviewed entries and released the list of winners:

• Best Mounted Rider – Thompson Ranch. 
• Best Mounted Group – Color Guard DeRego ʻOhana
• Most Patriotic – Color Guard DeRego ʻOhana. 
• Most Hawaiian – Miss MAUI. 
• Best Mounted Keiki – Paressa HORSE Group
• Best Musical – Master Keiki Hula Kauila Shimabukuro of Hālau Kekuaokalāʻauʻalaʻiliahi.
• Best Commercial – Alpha Inc. 
• Best Theme – Maui Classic Cars 
• Most Unusual – MAUI Shriners. 

The 2024 Parade Marshal was Eugene DeRogo, a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication and service. The parade also paid loving tribute to special honoree the late Gladys Baisa, a cherished member of the Makawao community whose legacy continues to inspire.

This year’s event sponsors were: County of Maui, Maui Office of Economic Development, Alpha Inc. (title sponsor),4Leaf, inc., Blasting Technology Inc.,  Pukalani Superette, KAOI, KPOA 93.5 FM, Ground Transport Inc., Maui Soda & Ice Works, Pacific Media Group, Tri Isle Inc., Makawao Public House, ʻOhana Island Grindz, Maui Brewing Co., Goodfellow Bros., Maui Toyota, Maui Oil Company, Polli’s Mexican Restaurant, Makawao Hongwanji, Munekiyo Hiraga, Lehua Builders, Lōkahi Pacific, Mahi Pono, KTS Customs, Roberts Hawaii, Surfing Goat Dairy, ISI Hawaii, Makawao Hongwanji and Minit Stop. 

More information is available at www.makawaoparade.com