Maui: Events

Maui celebrates all the traditional American holidays with an island spin, but several festivals are strictly Hawaiian in spirit. In late March the Haleakala Run to the Sun is 58km (36.2mi) of sweat and panting from sea-level Pa'ia to the top of Haleakala. The East Maui Taro Festival in early April is a thoroughly Hawaiian happening, with outrigger canoe racing, pancake breakfasts and hula dancing. In mid-June, look to the stars at the Celestial Cinema during the Maui Film Festival in Wailea and Kahului. On July 4 (Independence Day), Maui's upcountry cowboys host the old-fashioned Makawao Parade and Rodeo. Foodies head for a Taste of Lahaina in September for signature dishes from Maui's top chefs, and all things Hawaiian are celebrated during the Aloha Festivals in September and October. In November the world-famous Aloha Classic windsurfing championships are held at Ho'okipa Beach.