Lahaina Gateway grand opening set for Saturday

LAHAINA - Lahaina Gateway will celebrate the grand opening of its shopping center beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday with music, dance and free food, games, activities and giveaways.

Many businesses in the 138,000-square-foot center have been open for months, but this is the official opening of what developer Bilarjo describes as the only lifestyle center on Maui.

Central Pacific Bank provided financing for the $47 million venture and has opened its newest branch there.

Other tenants include the largest Barnes & Noble bookstore in the state; the first upscale gourmet grocery on the island, Lahaina Farms; Office Max; Genki Sushi, Outback Steakhouse, The Melting Pot and Baskin-Robbins; State Farm Insurance; Foot Locker; David's Happy Nails; Maui Dive and Surf; Claire's; Sunglass Icon; and Hat Shack. Further tenants are to be announced later.

A blessing by Kimokeo Kapahulehua will begin the day.

Entertainment will be by Mau Merahi Tahitian troupe (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.); Henry Kaleialoha Allen (11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.); and John Cruz (12:30 to 2 p.m.).

Prize drawings will begin at 2 p.m., with a grand prize of a helicopter tour for four.

Lahaina Farms will showcase local farmers, with samples, tastings, gifts, coupons and one-day specials inside. Maui Dive and Surf Shop will be give merchandise and tours. Barnes & Noble will give away books and will host a CD signing by Cruz after the concert.

Lahaina Gateway is located on 11 acres at the intersection of Honoapiilani Highway and Keawe Street. Bilarjo is a partnership of Larry Caster, formerly with the Estate of James Campbell, and Bill Gresham and Jolyn Bien of The Gresham Co.

For more information, go to www.lahainagateway.com.