HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Mark your calendar! The most anticipated event of the summer is back! The 11th annual Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest will take place on Saturday, July 6.
Join thousands in celebrating the lively Mōʻiliʻili district and the joyous Obon season with Honolulu’s largest bon dance. This community-centric event promises a dynamic street festival featuring local food vendors, skilled artisans, unique retailers and vibrant cultural performances.
“We’re excited to celebrate the 11th Anniversary of the Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest, one of Honolulu’s premier summer events,” said Event Coordinator Ryne Masuda. “The fusion of Bon Dance with delicious food and diverse shopping showcases the rich cultural diversity, history, and businesses of Mōʻiliʻili.”
Enjoy a family-friendly summer festival packed with activities for children, energetic bon dancing, local culinary delights, and exclusive shopping experiences.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to purchase commemorative merchandise and special collaborations with Sumofish and Asato Family Sherbert.
This event is supported by Kamehameha Schools and various community organizations, including the Mōʻiliʻili Hongwanji Mission and the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i. It promises to be a key highlight of the Obon season.
“Kamehameha Schools is proud to continue over a decade of support for the Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest. This year, we’re excited to share our plans to intensify our efforts in revitalizing Mōʻiliʻili,” said Calvin Mann, Director of Planning and Development, ʻĀina Pauahi, Kamehameha Schools.
Attendees will also get a glimpse of the revitalization efforts in Mōʻiliʻili with upcoming projects aimed at restoring the community’s original charm.
“We’ve undertaken smaller projects with this goal, and now we’re ready to do more. Our upcoming Waiānuenue project, set to begin construction this summer, will enable both long-standing and new businesses to thrive in a vibrant setting where community members can enjoy these spaces, vendors, and future events highlighting our KS Hawaiian cultural roots and the rich multi-ethnic traditions of Mōʻiliʻili,” Mann added.
The Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest is a free community event that encourages attendees to rideshare. Parking will be available at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa with complimentary shuttle service. For more information, click here.
The Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest will be taking place at the former Varsity Theatre parking lot and Coyne Street from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 6.
This year, a special kick-off event will be held on Friday, July 5, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the event site. This pre-event celebration is perfect for families seeking a taste of Andagi, Flying Saucers and Bon Dance Towels in a more relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy complimentary parking and discover something for everyone amidst the festivities.