Paddle out, memorials planned for Friday to remember and heal
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With the somber two-year anniversary of the deadly Lahaina wildfire on Friday, Maui County will host events in West and Central Maui to remember the tragedy and its overwhelming impact across the island.
There will be three events presented as the second year of Kuhinia Maui. The gatherings will honor the memories of loved ones lost and the resiliency of a community recovering from Hawaii's most devastating wildfire disaster.
The events will also offer residents opportunities to gather and support one another as the community continues to heal.
The memorial gatherings are scheduled for Friday starting with a paddle out from 7 a.m.-10:30 a.m. at Hanaka'ō'ō Beach Park in West Maui.
Organizers said the event will feature messages of hope, prayers and music, and spectators may watch from shore.
Due to limited parking and public safety needs, Hanaka'ō'ō Beach Park will have designated equipment drop-off and pick-up areas. Vehicle parking will be at the Lahaina Civic Center with shuttle service provided.
The county provided the following schedule of events:
• 7 a.m. - Gates open and shuttle service begins.
• 9:30 a.m. - Program starts.
• 10 a.m. - Launch
• 11 a.m. - Return to shore with music by Nā Leo Pilimehana
• 1:30 p.m. - Program concludes
• 2 p.m. - The final shuttle departs for the Lahaina Civic Center
Refreshments will be provided as well as a Kalana o Maui ceremony at the county building in Wailuku.
The memorial gathering at the county building will honor those affected by the wildfires throughout the county, and offer a moment of reflection, unity and support for the community.
The day's events will wrap up with an evening tribute from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lahaina Civic Center.
Organizers said the evening tribute will offer comfort and strength as a resilient community comes together in remembrance, reverence and fellowship. Additional details, including reservation links and event guidance, are available at www.kuhiniamaui.org.
Reservations are requested for the Kalana o Maui and the Lahaina Civic Center gatherings. Volunteers also are needed for all events. To make a reservation or sign up to volunteer, go to www.kuhiniamaui.org.
Donations of debranched flowers, petals and small leaves for paddle out scattering are being sought, but no stringed leis. Donations may be dropped off between 4 – 5 p.m. Thursday in front of the Kalana O Maui building, 200 S. High St., Wailuku.
Kuhinia Maui takes its name from a line in a traditional Maui chant that proudly speaks of the unequaled beauty and richness of Maui, highlighting that Maui and its people will rise from tragedy.