HONOLULU (KHON2) — The annual Moili’ili Summer Fest, a cornerstone of Hawaii’s summer festivities, kicks off this weekend with food, music and cultural performances.
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The festival began as a celebration of the rich Hawaiian and Japanese heritage of the Moiliili neighborhood and has grown into a beloved community event, known for hosting the largest Bon Odori dance in Honolulu, offering attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese festivities during the Bon season.
Festival highlights include taiko drumming, Bon Odori dancing, and a variety of food stalls offering everything from local favorites like JJ’z Treatz and Hawaiian Pie Co to international cuisines like Jamaica Jerk by JRS and Texas-style cuisine by Fujiyama Texas.
Retailers will also be displaying a wide range of products, from handmade crafts to local specialty products.
Event coordinator Line Masuda emphasized the importance of the festival in promoting cultural exchange and community ties.
“This is about celebrating our roots and sharing the joy with everyone who participates,” Masuda said.
The celebration will kick off with a preview event on Friday, July 5th from 5-8pm, followed by the main event on Saturday, July 6th from 5-10pm.
Both events will be held in the parking lot of the former Varsity Theatre, at the corner of University Avenue and Coin Street.
There is free street parking nearby, plus paid parking near the Varsity Building and the University of Hawaii at Manoa lot, which offers free shuttle service to the festival grounds.
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For those interested in taking part in a traditional activity, the Japanese Cultural Center will be hosting workshops on Tanabata traditions where visitors can decorate folding fans and write their wishes on them and hang them on bamboo trees.
