By Erica Garza

Attend the Maui County Agricultural Festival on April 2nd, 2011.

The fourth annual Maui County Agricultural Festival will take place Saturday, April 2nd on the luau grounds of Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu. Attendees will learn about local agriculture and its crucial role in creating a sustainable future for Maui.

The festival is made possible through a partnership between Maui County Farm Bureau and County of Maui, Office of Economic Development. Highlights include food booths, including Maui Cattle Company’s natural hamburgers. Food demonstrations by Taste Education will cover everything from seafood prep to cooking with canoe crops while the Alexander Brown Foundation will sponsor a farmer’s market, connecting you directly with the farmers who grow your food.

Bring the keiki because there will also be plenty of activities for them to enjoy in addition to quality food. From barnyard games and petting livestock to planting tomatoes and creating wearable art, there are tons of ways to teach your kids about local agriculture while making sure they have fun.

Culinary contests will compare your best recipes, while KPOA Radio Morning Mana‘o host Luana Kawa‘a will be nearby telling stories about Hawaiian agriculture. And be sure to take a farm tour for an exciting look into the origins of Maui’s food.

Festival hours are 9 am to 4 pm and admission is free. If you have questions, please call Maui County Farm Bureau at (808) 281-9718.

Maui Now covers the latest food news and events throughout the island and appreciates suggestions. Please send tips or feedback to erica@mauinow.com.