Tag Archives: events

Chinese New Year on Maui 2026: Where to Celebrate the Year of the Horse

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Chinese New Year is almost here, and Maui is ready to welcome the Year of the Horse with cultural celebrations, lion dances, family activities, and plenty of festive energy.

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, and while Maui’s events aren’t as large as Honolulu’s Chinatown festivities, there are still meaningful and fun celebrations happening across the island.

Here’s your guide to what’s happening.

🐎 Chinese New Year – Official Start

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

This marks the first day of the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Horse. Traditionally, this is a time focused on renewal, prosperity, family gatherings, and welcoming good fortune.

You may see smaller celebrations, lion dance appearances, or restaurant specials around the island during this week.

🎉 Maui Chinese New Year Festival

Saturday, February 21, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Maui Mall Village, Kahului

This is Maui’s largest Chinese New Year celebration and a must-attend event for families.

The festival typically includes:

  • Lion dance performances (often multiple showings)
  • Martial arts demonstrations including Tai Chi
  • Dragon and ribbon dance performances
  • Keiki crafts and cultural activities
  • Chinese calligraphy and heritage displays
  • Local food vendors and festival booths

It’s free, family-friendly, and filled with color, music, and cultural tradition.

What to Expect at a Maui Lunar New Year Celebration

Lion dances are often the highlight. The lion symbolizes strength and good fortune, and performances traditionally “chase away” bad luck while inviting prosperity for the year ahead.

If you see the lion dancers, you can participate in the tradition of offering a small red envelope donation to “feed the lion” — a fun and symbolic gesture.

Maui Whale Day 2026: Complete Weekend Schedule (Thursday–Sunday + Parade Information)

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It’s time to commemorate World Whale Day, one of Maui’s most significant and enjoyable customs, if you’re visiting the island this week. This yearly event, which is organized by the Pacific Whale Foundation, recognizes the humpback whales who come to Maui’s warm seas every winter.

This is your comprehensive guide to all the events taking place from today through Sunday, including information about the parade.

February 12th, Thursday
Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery: Taste & Music

Enjoy a night of live music, regional cuisine, and island-made cocktails under the stars to start the weekend. Taste & Tunes is a laid-back, neighborhood-focused event that combines celebration and conservation.

The Volunteer Service Project of Mālama Pono

Give back at the beginning of your day. In order to mālama (care for) the land and seas that the whales call home, this early morning stewardship event collaborates with Maui environmental organizations.

February 13th, Friday
Soirée Big Blue at Mākai Glass

This is Whale Week’s signature evening event. In addition to delectable pūpū and served drinks, guests take in a dinner program that highlights the impact of decades of conservation. It’s a sophisticated, joyous evening dedicated to celebrating the efforts that save our ocean ecosystem.

February 14th, Saturday
Day of the Community: Mālama I Nā Koholā

Māʻalaea Harbor Shops is the location.

Visitors of all ages who enjoy keiki and the ocean will adore this family-friendly daytime event. Anticipate:

• Interactive displays on marine science• Presentations of Hawaiian culture
• Keiki crafts and learning exercises• Live music and entertainment

It’s entertaining, educational, and participatory, with a focus on preserving and honoring our whales.

The World Whale Day Parade is scheduled for Sunday, February 15.

9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Travel path: South Kihei Road (from Kalama Park to Kamaole I)

One of Maui’s most vibrant and happy community gatherings is the parade. There will be live music, costumes with an ocean theme, adorned floats, local groups, and lots of whale pride. Everyone can use it for free.

Pro tip: Bring water, chairs, and sunscreen, and arrive early for parking.

Kalama Park Post-Parade Festival

Following the procession, there are vendors, events, entertainment, and a community get-together in Kalama Park. The morning is filled with admiration for the water and island energy.

The Significance of World Whale Day

Thousands of humpback whales travel to the warm waters of Maui Nui each winter in order to mate and give birth. World Whale Day serves as a reminder of the value of conservation, education, and stewardship for coming generations in addition to being a celebration.

Whale Week is a potent fusion of culture, community, and ocean love, whether you want to attend one event or spend the entire weekend there.

ART LOVERS…GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

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2026 Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center Annual Juried Exhibition


What it is: Hui Noʻeau’s Annual Juried Exhibition, which features a broad range of artwork from Maui and other artists, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, photography, jewelry, woodworking, fiber arts, digital media, and more.


Date and time of opening: Saturday, January 17th
Ends on: February 20, 2026


Where: Makawao, Maui’s Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center


This is a significant yearly visual arts event on Maui and an excellent opportunity to view a broad range of traditional and contemporary pieces created by both local and visiting artists.

Holiday Events

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MAUI HOLIDAY EVENTS (DECEMBER)

ISLAND-WIDE / PUBLIC EVENTS

  1. Santa’s Arrival by Outrigger Canoe
    1. Location: Wailea Beach (fronting Wailea Beach Resort)
    1. Dates: Usually Dec 23 or 24 (annual tradition)
    1. Info:

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmmc-wailea-beach-resort-marriott-maui/experiences/festive/

  • Holiday Lights & Christmas Decorations
    • Location: Lahaina Cannery Mall, Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center, Shops at Wailea
    • Info:

https://www.govisithawaii.com/maui-christmas-events-activities/

  • Whale Watching Season Begins
    • Location: Lahaina & Ma‘alaea Harbors
    • Tours:

Pacific Whale Foundation – https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/ Trilogy – https://sailtrilogy.com/

  EVENTS BY HOTEL/RESORT

GRAND WAILEA (WALDORF ASTORIA

  • Holiday Feast (Christmas Day Dinner)
  • Kid Activities (cookie decorating, crafts)
  • Live holiday music
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

https://www.grandwailea.com/experiences/festive/

WAILEA BEACH RESORT (MARRIOTT)

  • Santa Arrival by Canoe
  • Christmas Eve Storytime with Mrs. Claus
  • Holiday keiki workshops
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmmc-wailea-beach-resort-marriott-maui/experiences/festive/

THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA

  • Holiday Market (local vendors, crafts)
  • Tree lighting & resort-wide decorations
  • Christmas Day “Holiday Harvest Dinner” at Banyan Tree
  • Location: Kapalua
  • Info:

https://event.marriott.com/jhmrz-the-ritz-carlton-maui-kapalua/eventshttps://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/jhmrz-the-ritz-carlton-maui-kapalua/experiences/holidays/

HYATT REGENCY MAUI

  • Drums of the Pacific Christmas Eve Luau
  • Drums of the Pacific Christmas Day Luau
  • Location: Kāʻanapali
  • Info:

MONTAGE KAPALUA BAY

  • Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Prix-Fixe Dinners at Cane & Canoe
  • Holiday wellness + keiki activities
  • Location: Kapalua
  • Info:

https://www.montage.com/kapaluabay/experiences/upcoming-events/

FAIRMONT KEA LANI

  • Christmas Dinner Events
  • Gingerbread displays & Santa appearances
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

 NEW YEAR’S EVENTS (DEC 31→ JAN 1)

ISLAND-WIDE / PUBLIC EVENTS

  1. New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Wailea
    1. Location: Off Wailea Beach (Grand Wailea area)
    1. Time: Midnight
    1. Info:

https://www.govisithawaii.com/maui-new-years-eve-fireworks-special-celebrations/

  • NYE Fireworks Viewing Cruises
    • Locations: Depart from Lahaina or Ma‘alaea
    • Operators:

Pacific Whale Foundation: https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/ 

Ali‘i Nui: https://aliinuimaui.com/

Trilogy: https://sailtrilogy.com/

Pride of Maui: https://www.prideofmaui.com/

NEW YEAR’S EVENTS BY HOTEL/RESORT

GRAND WAILEA

  • NYE Backyard BBQ
  • NYE Outdoor Movie Night
  • Midnight Fireworks on Wailea Beach
  • 21+ After-Hours Party
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

https://www.grandwailea.com/experiences/festive/

THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA

  • New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball
  • Champagne Toast + Live Music
  • Location: Kapalua
  • Info:

https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/jhmrz-the-ritz-carlton-maui-kapalua/experiences/holidays/

HYATT REGENCY MAUI

  • Drums of the Pacific New Year’s Eve Luau
  • Location: Kāʻanapali
  • Info:

MONTAGE KAPALUA BAY

  • NYE Four-Course Dinner at Cane & Canoe
  • NYE Cocktail Lounge + Live Music + Midnight Toast
  • New Year’s Day Brunch
  • Location: Kapalua
  • Info:

https://www.montage.com/kapaluabay/experiences/upcoming-events/

WAILEA BEACH RESORT (MARRIOTT)

  • Live DJs / sunset parties
  • Family-friendly NYE programming (varies annually)
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmmc-wailea-beach-resort-marriott-maui/experiences/festive/

ANDAZ MAUI

  • NYE Gala Dinner & Dancing
  • Special Chef Tasting Menus
  • Location: Wailea
  • Info:

https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/en-US/oggan-andaz-maui-at-wailea-resort

OTHER SEASONAL OPTIONS (NOT HOTEL-SPECIFIC)

Road to Hana Private Tours (holiday availability varies)

https://www.roadtohanatours.com/ 

Haleakalā Sunrise or Sunset Tours https://www.tourmaui.com/

Snorkel Tours (Molokini, Honolua)

Four Winds: https://www.fourwindsmaui.com/ 

Redline Rafting: https://redlinerafting.com/

Lahaina & Upcountry Holiday Dining

OpenTable listings: https://www.opentable.com/hawaii/maui-restaurants

November in Wailea: Music, Markets & Maui Magic

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November is one of the most vibrant months to explore Wailea and the rest of Maui. With cooler evenings, golden sunsets, and a full calendar of festivals and performances, the island feels alive with music, art, and community spirit. Whether you love theater, local markets, or spontaneous nights filled with island rhythm, here’s your insider guide to what’s happening this month.

Big Event Highlights

Wailuku First Friday – November 7
Kick off the month at Wailuku First Friday, a lively block party on Market Street from 6–9 p.m. The event features live music, delicious local foods, handcrafted goods, and plenty of family fun. It’s a perfect way to experience the small-town charm that defines Central Maui.

“A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol” – November 1 through December 7
Head to Maui OnStage at 67 N. Market Street in Wailuku for a nostalgic theater experience. This production re-imagines the holiday classic as an old-time radio show, complete with music, sound effects, and heartwarming performances. Tickets are available at mauionstage.thundertix.com.

Cabaret Musical: “Dance Masterpiece” – November 14–30
At MAPA’s Naylor Theater (2027 Main Street, Wailuku), step into Berlin’s Jazz Age for a dazzling cabaret experience. This locally produced musical brings together Maui’s top stage talent for an evening of sultry songs and captivating dance.

Nobuntu – November 18
The internationally acclaimed female a cappella group from Zimbabwe performs at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului at 7:30 p.m. Their sound fuses Afro-Jazz, Gospel, and traditional rhythms into a soul-stirring celebration of African culture.

Kihei Fourth Friday – November 28
Join the community at Azeka Shops in Kihei starting at 6:30 p.m. This town party is packed with food trucks, live entertainment, local vendors, and a contagious aloha vibe.

Magic in Paradise – November 28
Wrap up your evening at the ProArts Playhouse in Kihei at 7:30 p.m., where magician David Kuraya delivers a show that blends illusion, laughter, and a touch of local flair.

Weekly and Recurring Favorites

White Hawaiian – Every Sunday
Eric Gilliom’s award-winning one-man musical comedy returns each week at ProArts Playhouse in Kihei (3 p.m.). Named “Hawaii’s Best Solo Cabaret Concert” in 2023, it’s an entertaining journey through Hawaiian identity, family, and humor.

Mele: The Hawaiian Music Experience – Tuesdays & Saturdays
At 5 p.m. inside the Maui Ocean Center Dome Theater, this immersive experience uses stunning projections, live music, and hula to tell the story of Hawaiʻi—from the peaks of Haleakalā to the ocean depths.

Moroccan Nights at Le Bazaar – Tuesdays through Saturdays
Enjoy an exotic culinary journey at Le Bazaar in Kihei’s Azeka Place from 5–7 p.m. The evening combines authentic Moroccan cuisine with live belly dancing. Reservations are recommended.

Evening Brunch & Hula Shows – Monday through Saturday
South Maui Gardens hosts rotating local musicians, tasty island fare, and authentic hula performances under the stars. It’s one of Kihei’s most relaxed and community-oriented venues.

Live Music Nightly
Maui Brewing Co. in Kihei keeps the island groove going daily from 6–8 p.m., while Diamonds Ice Bar Grill (Azeka Place) features Ken Stover & the Blue Diamonds Trio every Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon.

Lahaina Parrot Bird Stand Photos – Daily
At South Maui Gardens from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can take memorable photos with colorful parrots (by appointment). A great family souvenir with a touch of island charm.

Farmers Markets & Local Finds

Farmers markets across Maui bring the island’s bounty to your basket—ripe fruit, fresh greens, handmade crafts, and plenty of aloha.

• Kumu Farms at Maui Tropical Plantation – Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
• South Maui Gardens Artisan Market – Thursdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Ko Mahi Ke Farmers Market at Kukui Mall – Tuesdays 4–7 p.m., Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
• Wailea Village Farmers Market – Tuesdays, 8–11 a.m. on Wailea Ike Drive

Plan Your Perfect Maui November

With so much happening—from cultural performances to community street parties—November is one of the best times to experience Maui’s creative heartbeat. Whether you’re visiting or lucky enough to call the island home, take time to explore, support local talent, and soak up the beauty of life in Wailea.