MAUI, Hawaii (KHON2) -- The 4th of July is a celebration of overcoming both indigenous peoples and European colonizers. It is a time to celebrate who citizens of the United States are today and yesterday.
In Hawaiʻi, Maui offers a variety of exciting events for the 4th of July 2024, making it a fantastic place to celebrate Independence Day. Here are some of the key activities planned.
Wailea Fireworks
The Grand Wailea Resort is hosting a festive celebration for its guests, culminating in a beautiful beachfront fireworks display. This is a great spot for those staying at the resort or nearby to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Fireworks display
The event features a spectacular beachfront fireworks' show that lights up the sky over Wailea Beach. It is one of the most anticipated fireworks displays on the island.
Festivities
The Grand Wailea Resort hosts a range of activities throughout the day for their guests, including:
- Outdoor BBQ: Enjoy a traditional American barbecue with a Hawaiʻi twist.
- DJ and live music: Entertainment by local musicians and DJs to keep the festive atmosphere alive.
- Lawn games: Various games for families and children, including classic lawn games.
- Extended pool hours: The resort often extends its pool hours to accommodate guests wanting to cool off before the fireworks.
- Outdoor movie: A family-friendly movie screening outdoors to keep the kids entertained.
Access
- Guests of the resort: The event is primarily for guests staying at the Grand Wailea Resort. However, there are public viewing areas along Wailea Beach where non-guests can enjoy the fireworks display.
- Reservations: It is advisable to book accommodations and dining reservations well in advance due to high demand during the holiday period.
Practical tips
- Parking: Limited parking is available, so early arrival is recommended.
- Seating: Bring beach chairs or blankets if you plan to watch from the public beach areas.
- Safety: Follow all safety guidelines provided by the resort and local authorities.
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4th of July fireworks cruises
Several boat tours will offer spectacular views of the fireworks from the water:
Pacific Whale Foundation offers a few different fireworks cruises departing from Ma'alaea Harbor.
Ali’i Nui provides a Fireworks Sunset Sail with food and drinks.
Quicksilver Maui hosts a Fireworks Cruise with cocktails, appetizers, and island music.
Trilogy offers sunset and dinner sails that include a view of the fireworks.
Calypso offers a special July 4th fireworks cruise from Ma'alaea Harbor, featuring appetizers, drinks, and great views from the triple-deck catamaran.
Click here for more information.
Whalers Village Summer Celebration
Located in Ka'anapali Beach, this family-friendly event includes entertainment such as Jazz Maui, an Uncle Sam stilt walker, hula lessons, lawn games, carnival games, and activities for kids like face painting and a popcorn machine. It runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free to the public This event is free and open to the public. Click here for more information.
Entertainment
- Live music: Enjoy performances by local artists, including Jazz Maui, which adds a lively and festive atmosphere to the event.
- Uncle Sam Stilt Walker: A stilt walker dressed as Uncle Sam entertains guests, providing great photo opportunities.
Activities
- Hula lessons: Participate in traditional Hawaiian hula lessons and learn about this beautiful dance form.
- Photo booth: Capture memories with family and friends at the themed photo booth.
Lawn games
- Giant Connect 4 and Jenga: Play oversized versions of these popular games.
- Corn Hole and Washer Toss: Classic lawn games that are fun for all ages.
- Tiki Ring Toss: A Hawaiʻi twist on the traditional ring toss game.
Carnival games
- Various carnival-style games such as beanbag knockdown, tiki ring toss, aloha basketball free throw, and Mad Hatter pong teacups. Participants can qualify for prizes.
Keiki (Kids) activities
- Face painting and glitter tattoos: Kids can enjoy getting their faces painted or adorned with glitter tattoos.
- Jumping castle: A lively jumping castle fronting the Hula Grill provides fun for children.
Food and refreshments
- Hula Grill: Offers fresh ingredients from local fisherman and farmers. There is a special treat for kids with a jumping castle on the beachfront lawn.
- Leilani’s on the Beach: Serving grilled hot dogs and ice-cold lemonade, with proceeds benefiting the Legacy of Aloha Foundation, which supports Maui employees affected by the West Maui fires.
Practical information
- Admission: The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible for everyone.
- Parking: Parking is available at Whalers Village, but it can get crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
Click here for more information.
Makawao Rodeo
The annual rodeo at Oskie Rice Event Center in Makawao is a highlight of the 4th of July weekend. Starting on July 5th, it features traditional rodeo events and live performances, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
The Makawao Rodeo has been a tradition since 1956 and is organized by the Maui Roping Club. It showcases the skills and traditions of the Hawaiian paniolo, who have a history dating back to the 19th century when cattle ranching was introduced to the islands.
Rodeo competitions
- Bull riding: A thrilling event where cowboys attempt to stay on a bucking bull for as long as possible.
- Bronc riding: Riders face off against wild horses, trying to stay mounted for the duration of the ride.
- Barrel racing: A timed event where riders navigate a horse through a cloverleaf pattern around barrels.
- Team roping: A coordinated event where two cowboys work together to catch a steer.
- Steer wrestling: Also known as bulldogging, cowboys leap from their horses to wrestle a steer to the ground.
Parade and festivities
- Paniolo parade: Typically held on the morning of July 4th, the parade features decorated floats, riders in traditional cowboy attire, and local musicians.
- Live music: Throughout the event, there are performances by local musicians and bands, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Food and crafts: Various vendors offer local foods, crafts, and souvenirs, providing a taste of Hawaiian culture.
Family-friendly activities
- Keiki rodeo: Events tailored for younger participants, offering a safe and fun introduction to rodeo activities.
- Petting zoo: A popular attraction for children, featuring a variety of farm animals.
Practical information
- Tickets:
- Tickets are available for purchase online and at the gate. Prices vary depending on the day and the type of seating.
- Early purchase is recommended as the event can sell out, especially for premium seating.
- Parking:
- Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly. Arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot.
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These events provide a mix of local culture, entertainment, and spectacular fireworks, ensuring a memorable Independence Day on Maui.