PHOTOS: Keiki Fest – Happy Kids, Tired Parents

By Susan Halas

Makana Kanekoa, Healani Kanekoa, Leialoha Kauhane and Zekie Kanekoa were ready for action at Keiki Fest held April 14 at the UH Maui campus. Susan Halas photo.

Strollers were the vehicle of choice at the 2012 Keiki Fest that drew thousands of youngsters and their parents to the UH Maui campus on Saturday, April 14.

The event was a day filled with fun, games, information and activities designed to celebrate the “Month of the Young Child.”

On the fun side there were bouncing castles, clowns making balloon animals, ring tossing, bowling, ball toss, sticker fun, hula hoops and bouncing castles to name a few. Most of it free was free or by nominal donation.

Sparkles the clown says hello to a young visitor. Susan Halas photo.

Food lovers had a choice of many treats – those in search of information could receive advice on nutrition, education, car seat and bike safety  and  more.

Anthony Corniel sits in the driver's seat of his 1933 Plymouth 5 window coupe. His flaming street rod was part of the Maui Classic Cruiser club display. Susan Halas photo.

For adults the already festive event was made even more inviting by a shiny display of vintage vehicles. There was an assortment of merchandise to tempt the generous aunties and grandparents.

Music played throughout the day as a host of entertainers and musical groups brought their talents to the stage.

A good time was has by all under the auspices of the Maui Kiwanis, The Boys and Girls Club of Maui, Maui 4H Clubs, the  County of Maui and UH Maui College, as well as a long list of sponsors, patrons and others who generously gave of their time and money to make the event possible.

Kealoha Baricuatro, 6, demonstrated some fancy moves with the hula hoop, one of her favorite events at the festival. Susan Halas photo.	This bowling booth had many participants. Susan Halas photo.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD Ripsy Kai, 4, of Kahului cuddles up to a big stuffed animal held by Diane Agbigay, who teaches at the college's dental program. Volunteers demonstrated proper brushing techniques on the toys with oversized dentures. Susan Halas photo.	Nicole Davis, 15, of Wailuku and Rayc Tamanaha, 14, of Kahului had pretzel snacks for sale with proceeds to benefit of the Pilialoha 4H club. Susan Halas photo.