East Maui Taro Festival Returns for its 28th Year, Promising a Vibrant Celebration

of Hawaiian Culture

HANA, MAUI – April 20th, 2024 – The highly anticipated East Maui Taro Festival is set to make

a triumphant return for its 28th year, promising a day filled with vibrant festivities celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. After a hiatus due to COVID-19 closures, the festival is back to showcase the best of Hawaiian culture, cuisine, and the community of Hana, Maui.

This year’s festival is dedicated to the Lāhainā ‘Ohana, recognizing Hana’s ancient connection

to Lāhainā through the Pi’ilani line and Kihawahine at Moku’ula. In our support of efforts to rebuild Island community resilience, the festival will offer community engagement opportunities.

The East Maui Taro Festival, known for its focus on taro or kalo, will take place on Saturday,

April 20th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hāna Ballpark. The last festival, held in 2019, attracted

thousands of attendees, and this year’s comeback event is expected to be no different.

The festival provides an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the heart of

Hawaiian culture, with live demonstrations, hands-on activities, and engaging

conversations with local artisans. Visitors will gain insights into traditional practices,

such as poi pounding hosted by Ma Ka Hana Ka ‘Ike and live music by local musicians. 

Attendees can look forward to a variety of special booths, including a Farmers Market

showcasing many varieties of taro/kalo products for sale, from kalo huli to endemic potted plants to the Hawaiian dessert kulolo and fresh poi by East Maui farmers. Additionally, the festival will feature Arts and Crafts booths by local artists, hands-on Cultural Demonstration, 20 Food Booths, each offering a main taro dish or side, and a Nonprofit Information Tent.

Admission to the festival is free, making it a perfect ‘ohana-friendly event that encourages

community participation, and building relationships while offering a sense of unity and pride for

Hawai’i’s cultural heritage. The 28th Annual East Maui Taro Festival promises to be a memorable day of fun, education, music, hula, and celebration for all who attend. Join us on April 20th in Hana, rain or shine, for an unforgettable experience celebrating the best of Hawaiian culture.

For more information visit our website at www.tarofestival.org. 

Contact:

info@tarofestival.org