Maui's Festivals and Events Throughout the Year

A Celebration of Aloha

Maui is not just a paradise for stunning beaches and majestic mountains—it's also home to a vibrant cultural scene that thrives year-round. From traditional Hawaiian celebrations to modern festivals, the island offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, these events provide a unique opportunity to experience the Aloha spirit in all its forms.

1. The Maui Film Festival (June)

Where: Wailea
If you're a film lover, the Maui Film Festival is a must-attend event. Held every June in Wailea, this festival showcases the best of independent cinema, featuring an array of films from emerging filmmakers as well as established stars. The festival offers everything from intimate screenings under the stars at the Celestial Cinema to red-carpet events. It’s a perfect blend of art, culture, and breathtaking outdoor settings.

2. The Maui Onion Festival (April)

Where: Whalers Village, Kaanapali
Get ready for a savory celebration of one of Maui’s most beloved crops—the Maui onion! Held each spring, the Maui Onion Festival features a delicious lineup of food, cooking demonstrations, and live music. Chef competitions showcase creative ways to use the island-grown onions in dishes ranging from savory to sweet. If you’re a foodie or just love a good festival, this event is for you.

3. Aloha Festivals (September)

Where: Various locations across Maui
The Aloha Festivals is one of the largest Hawaiian cultural festivals in the state, and Maui is at the heart of it. Spanning the entire month of September, Aloha Festivals celebrates Hawaiian music, hula, food, and traditions. You can experience everything from historic parades and royal court processions to street parties with traditional Hawaiian performances. Whether you’re on the beach or in town, you’ll find no shortage of celebrations where you can immerse yourself in the true spirit of Aloha.

4. Makawao Parade & Rodeo: A Celebration of Paniolo Culture (July)

Where: Makawao
Every July, the charming town of Makawao on Maui comes alive with two exciting events that celebrate the island’s rich paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage: the Makawao Parade and the Makawao Rodeo.

The Makawao Parade is a vibrant procession that fills the streets with color, music, and excitement. It honors Maui’s ranching culture with participants such as horseback riders, vintage cars, local school marching bands, and cultural performers. Cowboys and cowgirls, dressed in traditional attire, proudly ride through the streets, offering a true taste of the island's community spirit. This parade is not only a visual treat but also an opportunity to connect with Maui's history and celebrate its hardworking ranching community.

The Makawao Rodeo, one of Hawaii's oldest and most anticipated rodeos, takes place the same weekend. Known as the "Cowboy Capital of Maui," this thrilling event showcases traditional cowboy skills like bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and bronc riding. For over 70 years, professional cowboys and cowgirls from around the world have competed, highlighting the skill and bravery of the island’s paniolo heritage. The rodeo is family-friendly, offering exciting competitions, local food vendors, artisans, and entertainment, making it a lively celebration of Maui’s cowboy culture.

5. Merrie Monarch Festival (April)

Where: Hāna, Maui
Though the Merrie Monarch Festival is primarily held on the Big Island, Maui also hosts its own version of this iconic hula festival. Celebrating the legacy of King David Kalākaua, the Merrie Monarch Festival highlights the beautiful Hawaiian tradition of hula dance and chant. Participants from across the islands gather to compete in this prestigious event, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Hawaiian culture. It’s a rare and exciting chance to witness the island’s deep-rooted cultural heritage in action.

6. Kapalua Wine and Food Festival: A Culinary Extravaganza (June)

Where: Kapalua
The Kapalua Wine and Food Festival is Maui's premier culinary event, attracting foodies and wine enthusiasts from around the globe. Held in the luxurious Kapalua Resort on the island's west coast, this festival is a multi-day celebration of fine dining, exceptional wines, and breathtaking views.

The event features a series of exclusive tastings, dinners, and educational seminars led by renowned chefs and sommeliers. Attendees can savor world-class cuisine paired with exquisite wines from around the world. Highlights include private chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings overlooking the stunning ocean vistas of Kapalua Bay.

Whether you're a connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys good food and wine, the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival is an unforgettable experience. It's the perfect opportunity to indulge in gourmet cuisine while immersing yourself in Maui's natural beauty.

7. Maui Whale Festival (March)

Where: Kihei
The Maui Whale Festival celebrates the annual migration of humpback whales to Maui’s waters. Taking place in March, the festival features whale watching excursions, environmental education programs, and a variety of family-friendly activities. It’s a chance to learn about these majestic creatures and the importance of conservation efforts to protect them. If you're visiting during whale season, this is an event that brings awareness to Maui’s role in preserving marine life.

8. The Upcountry Fair (August)

Where: Makawao
Held annually in August, the Upcountry Fair in Makawao is a celebration of Maui's agricultural and paniolo (cowboy) heritage. The fair features fun events such as a rodeo, livestock exhibitions, a petting zoo, local crafts, and live music. It’s a true reflection of Maui’s rural culture and offers a more laid-back vibe compared to other more tourist-heavy events on the island.

9. King Kamehameha Day Celebrations (June)

Where: Wailuku
King Kamehameha Day honors the king who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810. Maui celebrates with parades, traditional Hawaiian music, hula performances, and more. The town of Wailuku hosts one of the biggest celebrations, where residents gather to celebrate Hawaiian culture, history, and community pride. Don’t miss the floral parade, where floral lei draped statues of King Kamehameha are presented in a colorful display of respect and admiration.

10. Maui Jazz and Blues Festival (September)

Where: Various locations
For music lovers, the Maui Jazz and Blues Festival is a must-visit. Held in September, this event brings together world-class jazz and blues musicians for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re into smooth jazz or upbeat blues, the festival offers incredible performances in some of the island’s most beautiful venues. It’s a chance to enjoy fantastic music while soaking in the island’s breathtaking landscapes.

11. Kula Festival (August)

Where: Kula, Upcountry Maui
Held every August in Kula, Upcountry Maui, this festival celebrates the agricultural abundance of the region, with local farm tours, craft vendors, food trucks, and live music. You’ll also find an abundance of fresh produce, flowers, and plants from Maui’s farming community. It’s a fun event to enjoy with the family or to just spend the day exploring the rich bounty of Maui’s Upcountry region.

12. The Pumpkin Patch: A Fall Celebration for the Whole Family (October)

Where: Kula

While Maui's tropical climate might not seem conducive to fall festivities, the Pumpkin Patch at Kula Country Farms brings the spirit of autumn to the island. Every year, this family-friendly event draws crowds of all ages who come to experience Maui's version of a traditional pumpkin patch.

Located in the upcountry region of Maui, Kula Country Farms transforms into a pumpkin paradise, complete with rows of pumpkins ready for picking, hayrides, and a corn maze. Visitors can explore the farm's scenic surroundings, pick their perfect pumpkin, and enjoy a range of fun activities. There are also local food trucks, live entertainment, and craft booths to round out the experience.

This is a great event for families, as it provides a wholesome, fun-filled day outdoors. Plus, the cool upcountry weather adds a refreshing touch to the seasonal celebration, making it a unique way to enjoy the fall vibes in paradise.

---

Maui's festivals and events provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the island's culture, beauty, and sense of community. Whether you're visiting for a few days or have the privilege of living here, there’s always something happening on this beautiful island. Mark your calendars for one (or many!) of these celebrations and immerse yourself in the Aloha spirit!

Insider Tip: Check with local event organizers for dates and ticket availability, as these festivals can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Don't miss out on the chance to experience Maui at its most festive!

Tags