Maui County Fair makes a comeback
The 98th Maui County Fair kicks off Thursday at War Memorial Complex
By MATTHEW THAYER
After a six-year absence due to a pandemic, economics, staffing and all the other challenges of staging Maui's biggest community event by far, the four-day 98th Maui County Fair kicked off Thursday at War Memorial Complex in Wailuku.
Kaila Peterson and daughter Olina, 2, ride in the front seats of the roller coaster Thursday afternoon. "We were the first ones in line for the Fair," Kaila said. "I'm excited it's here." Having gone to the Maui Fair many times while growing up, she said it was fun to share the experience with her daughter. "It's her first time she's a lot more brave than I thought she would be."
The event, which concludes Sunday, is supported by the County of Maui. It kicked off with a traditional parade down Kaahumanu Avenue. Former Maui County Mayor and longtime Maui County Fair volunteer Michael Victorino served as Parade Grand Marshall, riding with wife Jocelyn.
With War Memorial Gym undergoing renovations, many of the exhibits that were formerly held there are located this year at Kaahumanu Center in the old Long's Drugs location. They include: Students Art, Student Horticulture, Fiber Arts, and the very popular Orchid Show.
Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen throws a pair of shakas to the crowd on Kaahumanu Avenue while riding in the Maui County Fair Parade Thursday afternoon with wife Isabella. Mayor Bissen reportedly played a key role in reviving the fair after a six-year break. The event was last held in 2019.
The sights, sounds and smells of Thursday's opening brought back many memories of past fairs held both at War Memorial and the old Fairgrounds in Kahului. It was once again a place to meet old friends and to see the looks of wonder on young faces as they soaked it all in. When attendees were asked how they felt about the Fair's return Thursday, the answer was nearly always the same: “excited.” It was also good to see long lines in front of the food booths run by local non-profits and churches. The Fair has long been a major fundraiser for Maui organizations.
For more information about tickets, parking, Fair hours and more, check out: themauifair.com.
Gregg Yamamoto and daughter Gi-yah, 4, ride the slide on the opening night of the Maui County Fair Thursday.
Emcee and radio "Morning Goddess" Alaka'i Paleka welcomes the audience in the entertainment tent to the 2025 Maui County Fair at War Memorial Complex in Wailuku Thursday. Paleka said while some things have been changed or downsized, and maybe not all the favorite foods like Flying Saucers are available this year, she urged Maui to support the fair as it makes its return after a six-year absence. She said with the Hilo and Kona fairs no longer being held, Maui was the last county fair in the state.
Maui County Fair Livestock Exhibit Coordinator Gabrielle Berce and dad Glenn Berce pose Thursday evening with Marshmallow, a Valais Blacknose Sheep from Haiku. Gabrielle said her father inspired her to take on the duty of helping the Fair return after a five-year break. "It's so exciting," she said. "My dad has been a volunteer for this exhibit for over 45 years. We have over 120 animals this year."
Seth Delos Reyes stirs a wok full of chow fun Thursday afternoon at the Fair. The Maui Ministry on the Move food booth featuring traditional savory noodles drew long lines.
Former Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino rides as the Maui County Fair Parade's Grand Marshall Thursday with wife Joycelyn.
A crew from Ladder 14 rides in Thursday's parade.
The Scrambler brings smiles Thursday.
