Rotary club reflects on December Christmas event on Maui

The Rotary District of Hawaiʻi (D5000) contributed $10,000 to the Lahaina Restoration Foundation to shift a “winter wonderland” event in December from its usual location at the Lahaina Banyan Tree to the Royal Lahaina Resort in Kāʻanapali.

The move ensured that children and their wildfire-displaced families would enjoy a cherished West Maui tradition of an annual “Snow Zone,” in 80-degree weather, regardless that its traditional venue was closed off to the general public, according to an announcement from the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset.

“On a balmy 80 degree day last December… the shovels were out as snowflakes started to fall from what looked like giant bags of snow,” the announcement says. “Keiki and their ʻohana began to gather as more snow collected. By the time the blizzard stopped, a line had formed with little ones eager to jump in, slippers and all, and maybe even throw their first snowball.”

The Lahaina Restoration Foundation usually holds the holiday tradition at the Banyan Tree, but the Rotary District of Hawaii (D5000) recognized the positive impact for the Lahaina community and the need for this event to continue in 2023. So, the Rotary District funded the event with $10,000.

Later, when a Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Rockville, Indiana, learned of the devastation, his club also provided financial support for the “Snow Zone.”

“With these generous donations, volunteers from the three Rotary Clubs in Lahaina were able to assist the Lahaina Restoration Foundation to bring this festive annual holiday experience back to the West Maui community,” the announcement says.

And, no “Snow Zone” would be considered complete without a cookie decorating station, which was provided by volunteers from Lahainaluna High School.

Members of the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunrise purchased Christmas trees and turned them into decorative holiday sprays that residents could hang on their doors, be it a home or hotel room.

“Many smiles were seen that day and even days after the event. Spirits were lifted and the aloha was felt.”