Maui is a top summer vacation spot, famed for its breathtaking beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. The island brims with activities for every traveler, whether seeking adventure or relaxation. Dive into the guide to the must-attend summer events in Maui for 2024 and get ready for an unforgettable island experience!
Maui Film Festival
August 29 – September 2 | Directions
Dive into the excitement at the Stardust Cinema in the A&B Amphitheater of the Maui Arts & Cultural Center! Experience the magic of the Maui Film Festival with 16 film premieres on a high-definition screen. Bring your blankets, low-back beach chairs, or folding chairs for ultimate comfort. Enjoy live music, captivating traditional Kahiko hula dances, festival tributes, and delightful surprises every night.
Beyond the films, treat yourself to a mouthwatering array of food and beverages that elevate the festive atmosphere. Imagine outdoor screenings under the stars, rubbing shoulders with celebrities, and attending exclusive parties—this is an event you simply can’t miss! Grab your passes now and join in a magical cinematic celebration!
8th Annual World Whale Film Festival
June 6 In-Person Event | Directions
June 8 (World Ocean Day) – July 31, 2024 | Online Event
Celebrate marine conservation at the 8th Annual World Whale Film Festival hosted by the Pacific Whale Foundation, this online event showcases captivating storytelling and visual arts to highlight the importance of oceans and the wisdom of Indigenous communities. Participate in educational talks, and art contests, and connect with fellow ocean enthusiasts, filmmakers, and organizations dedicated to conservation.
Join the festival and be a part of a global movement to protect our oceans through science and advocacy. Get inspired by powerful stories from those living in harmony with nature and play your part in environmental stewardship. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to celebrate the ocean and its protectors while making a real difference. Dive in and make waves for a better future!
MACC 2024 Summer Events
Too many dates to list! | Directions
The Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) is the place to be this summer, bursting with events that celebrate the island’s vibrant artistic and cultural heritage. Get ready for an exciting lineup of concerts, art exhibits, and cultural performances that turn MACC into a bustling hub of activity. This year’s schedule boasts an impressive mix of renowned artists and local talents, promising a rich and diverse cultural experience for everyone.
Whether you’re into classical symphonies or contemporary beats, the concerts cater to all musical tastes. The art exhibits are a feast for the eyes, showcasing talent from both local and international artists. And don’t miss the cultural performances, which beautifully honor Hawaiian traditions.
Wailuku First Friday’s
First Friday of the month July 5 – December 6 @ 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM | Directions
Have a night to remember at Wailuku First Friday This monthly street party electrifies Wailuku with live music, mouth-watering food, and vibrant art. Picture the streets buzzing with vendors, food trucks, crafters, and artists, each offering unique goods and delectable treats.
Wailuku First Friday celebrates and promotes local businesses and artists in a lively, festive atmosphere. Wander the famous Market Street, soak in captivating live performances, and uncover one-of-a-kind treasures. It’s the perfect chance to dive into Maui’s local culture while supporting the community. You won’t want to miss this amazing experience that happens every first Friday of the month till December!
He`e Nalu: The Art & Legacy of Hawaiian Surfing
July 7 – 21 @ 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Directions (Paia Bay Coffee)
In line with the 2024 Summer Olympic Surfing events in Tahiti and the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) on Oahu, Kuaaina is partnering with Hawaii-based kānaka curators and arts organizations. They will present smaller versions of the exhibit.
“He`e Nalu: The Art & Legacy of Hawaiian Surfing,” was first showcased at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, AZ, in 2023. This exhibit spans 2,000 years of surfing history, featuring ancient surf deities, contemporary art, and innovations by thirteen modern Kānaka Ōiwi creatives.
These exhibits dive deep into the dynamic relationship between Indigenous surfers and the Western-dominated surf industry. Celebrate and uplift the rich heritage of He`e Nalu with powerful stories and stunning artistry.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the profound history and vibrant culture of Hawaiian surfing!
First Saturday at Kealia Pond
First Saturday of the month July 6 – December 7 @ 9:00 AM & 3:00 PM | Directions
Saturday Guided Walk & Talk with Refuge Staff @ 9:30 AM & 1:30 PM
Dive into the excitement of Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge on the first Saturday of every month! This free, all-ages event offers a captivating experience with guided “walk-and-talk” explorations of the native pollinator garden and local wildlife, led by refuge staff. Enhance a birding adventure with borrowed binoculars and wander through the coastal boardwalk, wildlife viewing ponds, and visitor center.
The Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for engaging educational activities and craft sessions themed around native birds and plants.
Nestled in Kihei, this free Saturday event is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the fascinating local wildlife.
Fourth of July Fireworks & Celebrations
Celebrate Maui’s vibrant Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks show that lights up the night sky! Experience the laid-back atmosphere of Wailea, where stunning beachside views meet a spectacular fireworks display at Grand Wailea’s festive event on July 4th. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration!
Elevate your July 4th experience with a spectacular fireworks boat cruise from Maalaea Harbor! Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, open bars, lively entertainment, and mouth-watering pupus for an unforgettable evening. Here are the options for 2024:
- Pride of Maui: Fireworks Over the Pacific (Departs at 6:30 PM, returns at 9:45 PM)
- Trilogy: 4th of July Fireworks Sail (Departs at 6:30 PM)
- Pacific Whale Foundation: Quicksilver Cruise (Departs at 6:30 PM)
Obon Festivals
Obon Festivals in Maui are a vibrant cultural celebration, honoring the spirits of ancestors with traditional dance and festive activities. This annual event lights up with lively obon dances (bon odori), rhythmic taiko drumming, and heartfelt ceremonies, inviting ancestral spirits back to reunite with their families. Join in the fun with captivating Bon Odori dances, savor mouth-watering treats from food stalls, and immerse yourself in the colorful cultural displays.
These festivals offer a captivating glimpse into Japanese culture and community spirit on the island. Join the locals in the lively Bon Odori dance or savor delicious traditional Japanese treats from a variety of food stalls. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, wear comfortable clothing and get ready to dive into the festivities!
2024 Maui Bon Dance Schedule
Saturday, June 8
- Puʻunēnē Nichiren Mission
- Service 6 p.m. | Dance 7:30 p.m.
- Address: 9 Ani St.
- Contact: 808-871-4831 | dyomura808@gmail.com
Friday, June 14
- Wailuku Jodo Mission
- Service 6 p.m. | Dance 7 p.m.
- Address: 67 Central Ave.
- Contact: 808-244-0066 | johnhara@gmail.com
Saturday, June 15
- Wailuku Shingon Mission
- Service 6:30 p.m. | Dance 7:30 p.m.
- Address: 1939 North St.
- Contact: 808-244-3800 | sorapapa@yahoo.com
Saturday, June 29
- Kahului Jodo Mission
- Service 6:30 p.m.| Dance 7:30 p.m.
- Address: 325 Lāʻau St.
- Contact: 808-871-4911 | johnhara@gmail.com
Saturday, July 13
- Pāʻia Mantokuji Soto Zen Mission
- Service only 6 p.m. Friday, July 12
- Dance only at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 13
- Address: 281 Hāna Highway
- Contact: 808-579-8051 | info@paiamantokuji.org
Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20
- Kahului Hongwanji Mission
- On both nights: service 6 p.m. | dance 7:30 p.m.
- Address: 291 S. Puʻunēnē Ave.
- Contact: 808-871-4732 | kahuluihongwanjimission@gmail.com
Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27
- Makawao Hongwanji Mission
- On both nights: service 5 p.m. | dance 7 p.m.
- Address: 1074 Makawao Ave.
- Contact: 808-572-7229 | makawaohongwanji@gmail.com
Saturday, July 27
- Guzeiji Soto Mission of Molokaʻi
- Dance 6 p.m.
- Address: 90 Hotel Lane
- Contact: 808-553-5197
Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday, Aug. 3
- Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
- On both nights: service 6:30 p.m. | dance 7:45 p.m.
- Address: 1828 Vineyard St.
- Contact: 808-244-0406 | whm@wailukuhongwanji.org
Saturday, Aug. 17
- Pāʻia Rinzai Zen Mission
- Service 6 p.m.; Dance 7 p.m.
- Address: 120 Alawai Road
- Contact: 808-268-4216 | info@rinzai-maui.org
Saturday, Aug. 24
- Kula Shofukuji Mission
- Service 5 p.m.; Dance 7 p.m.
- Address: 113 Puanani Place
- Contact: 808-661-0466 | mail.lahainashingon.org
Saturday, Aug. 31
- Lānaʻi Hongwanji Mission
- Dance 7 p.m.
- Address: 1364 Frasier Ave.
- Contact: 808-565-6817 | hongwanjilanai@me.com
Saturday, Sept. 7
- Hāna Buddhist Temple
- Dance 5 p.m.
- Address: 1819 Hāna Highway
- Contact: 808-248-7010 | hanabuddhisttemple@gmail.com
Conclusion
From the enchanting Maui Film Festival to the vibrant Obon Festivals, summer 2024 in Maui is bursting with must-see events! These experiences promise to elevate your vacation with a thrilling mix of excitement and cultural richness. Imagine creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime by diving into these festivities.
Securing a Maui vacation rental near these events is key to maximizing convenience and enjoyment. Staying close to the action means you can easily join in on all the vibrant activities. So, immerse yourself in Maui’s diverse summer culture and plan your trip around these spectacular events for an extraordinary island adventure!
