Top Local Events and Festivals in Maui This Coming February

Your Guide to a Memorable Visit

1. Maui Whale Festival (February 1-28, 2025)

Maui is known as one of the best places in the world to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration, and the Maui Whale Festival celebrates this extraordinary phenomenon throughout the entire month of February. The festival includes a series of events designed to raise awareness about marine conservation and to promote whale watching. From boat tours with expert naturalists to whale-themed arts and cultural events, the festival offers a wide array of activities for nature lovers and those wanting to learn more about these incredible creatures.

Highlights:

• Whale Watching Tours: Take a boat tour to see the humpbacks up close.
• Whale Education Talks: Learn about humpback whales from experts.
• Ocean Counts: Volunteer to help count the whales as part of a citizen science program.

Where to Experience:

• Pacific Whale Foundation in Ma’alaea
• Lahaina Harbor (whale watching tours)

2. Chinese New Year Celebrations (February 2025)

Maui’s Chinese New Year celebrations offer a fun and colorful way to experience the island’s rich cultural diversity. While the official date of the Lunar New Year varies each year, February marks the start of the festival, with events taking place across the island. Traditional lion dances, martial arts performances, street parades, and Chinese food markets bring the festive atmosphere of this holiday to life. It’s a fantastic way to explore the blend of Hawaiian and Asian cultures on the island.

Highlights:

• Lion Dance Performances: Watch traditional lion dances performed in various locations.
• Cultural Exhibits: See displays of Chinese art, calligraphy, and crafts.
• Food Markets: Taste authentic Chinese dishes, such as dumplings, spring rolls, and dim sum.

Where to Experience:

• Lahaina Town (often on Front Street)
• Maui Mall in Kahului

3. Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) Events

The Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) is a hub of creativity and culture, offering a range of performances, concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions throughout February. Whether you’re into live music, theater, or visual arts, the MACC has something for every taste. Expect a mix of Hawaiian-themed events, international performances, and local artist showcases, all held in this stunning venue.

Highlights:

• Hawaiian Music Concerts: Enjoy live performances from top Hawaiian musicians.
• Theater Performances: Catch a local theater production or a touring show.
• Art Exhibits: Explore visual art exhibitions featuring local and international artists.

Where to Experience:

• Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului

4. Upcountry Farmers Market (Every Saturday in February 2025)

If you’re a fan of fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal goods, you’ll love the Upcountry Farmers Market in Kula. Held every Saturday, this vibrant market offers a diverse selection of organic fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, fresh flowers, baked goods, and more. It's also a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts while enjoying live music and the scenic upcountry surroundings.

Highlights:

• Fresh Local Produce: Find tropical fruits, organic vegetables, and locally grown herbs.
• Handmade Crafts: Discover jewelry, pottery, clothing, and more from local artisans.
• Live Music: Enjoy the sounds of local musicians while you shop.

Where to Experience:

• Upcountry Farmers Market in Kula (Saturdays from 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM)

5. Maui Film Festival Sneak Peeks (February 2025)

The Maui Film Festival is one of the most anticipated cultural events on the island, and though the full festival takes place in the summer, February offers some sneak peeks and special screenings. Film enthusiasts can enjoy independent films, international documentaries, and short films, often accompanied by Q&A sessions with the filmmakers. For anyone interested in the arts and cinema, this event is a must-see.

Highlights:

• Special Screenings: Watch curated films that provide a glimpse of the full festival in June.
• Filmmaker Panels: Participate in Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors.
• Workshops: Learn more about filmmaking through educational workshops.

Where to Experience:

• Various venues around the island (check for exact locations and dates)

6. Kapalua Wine & Food Festival (Date TBD for February 2025)

Wine and food lovers will delight in the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, one of Maui’s premier culinary events. The festival brings together world-renowned chefs, winemakers, and food enthusiasts for a weekend of indulgence. Expect wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and intimate dinners featuring gourmet food paired with the best wines. It’s an event that combines Maui’s breathtaking views with the finest in food and drink.

Highlights:

• Wine Tastings: Sample wines from local and international vineyards.
• Cooking Demonstrations: Watch top chefs prepare gourmet meals and share their secrets.
• Gourmet Dinners: Enjoy exclusive dinners with wine pairings set against stunning ocean views.

Where to Experience:

• Kapalua Resort in West Maui

7. Slack Key Guitar Festival (Date TBD for February 2025)

For music lovers, the Slack Key Guitar Festival offers an intimate celebration of Hawaiian culture through music. Slack key guitar is a unique and soulful style of playing that’s deeply rooted in the islands. At this festival, you’ll have the opportunity to listen to live performances from the best slack key guitarists, learn about the history of the music, and even participate in workshops. This event is a must for anyone wanting to experience authentic Hawaiian music.

Highlights:

• Live Performances: Enjoy performances by renowned slack key guitarists.
• Workshops: Learn about the technique and history of slack key guitar.
• Cultural Exhibits: Immerse yourself in the culture of Hawaii through music and storytelling.

Where to Experience:

• Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului (check for dates)

8. Maui Slack Key Guitar Festival (February 2025)

The Maui Slack Key Guitar Festival celebrates the sounds of one of Hawaii’s most iconic music styles: slack key guitar. With performances from top local musicians, the festival gives you an intimate look at the Hawaiian music scene, where traditional instruments and vocal styles come together in soulful harmony. Expect a full day of music, food, and cultural activities that showcase the island’s deep musical heritage.

Where to Experience:

• Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului (or other locations across Maui)

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