The New Year has now rolled in and as always, a new year brings new and exciting adventures to both residents and visitors alike. More than just being a fun tropical Hawaii vacation getaway, Maui also hosts a variety of events and celebrations that are open to the public. If you are planning a Maui vacation during the months of January or February, here are some events that you might want to add to your travel itinerary!
West Maui Watershed Restoration Day – January 11, 2020
Help the Coral Reef Alliance in their initiative to save the coral reefs of Maui. The West Maui Watershed Restoration Day, which is a monthly event, is held every second Saturday of the month at the Oka Kope Road in Lahaina. Volunteers are welcomed to join the tree planting activity wherein native plants, such as the vetiver grass, are used to help reduce soil erosion and mitigate sediment run-off. Snacks and water will be provided as you join Coral Reef Alliance and learn about the ridge to reef restoration and ahupua’a management.
Maui Oceanfront Marathon – January 19, 2020
The Maui Oceanfront Marathon is now in its twelfth year! This point to point race, to be held on January 19, starts north from Wailea and will run through Kihei along the oceanfront and will end in Kamehameha Iki Park near the Banyan Tree in Lahaina’s Front Street.
This event will include a half marathon, a 5k, 10k and 15k race. And because January is a prime month for whale viewing, you may just find some whales joining your race along the waters of Maui. The Maui Oceanfront Marathon will benefit the non-profit organizations, local school teams, and clubs that helped organize the marathon.
Great Whale Count – January 25, 2020
During the first 3 months of the year, the Great Whale Count is done annually as spearheaded by the Pacific Whale Foundation. This event brings together volunteers to help count the whales from 12 survey sites along the beaches of Maui. The Great Whale Count is a part of the continuous efforts of PWF to survey the abundance of whales in Hawaii. This three-part event will be held on January 25, February 29 and March 28!
Maui Open Studios Event (10th Annual) – February 1, 2020
Unleash your inner art enthusiast and join the annual Maui Open Studios Event to be held on February 1 at UHMC Paina Culinary Arts Center in Kahului. Now in its 10th year, the Maui Open Studios Event offers participants a series of self-guided tours of studios and exhibits of local artists in Maui. Through these tours, visitors can meet various artists and preview their work while enjoying live music and complimentary wine. The opening ceremony is then followed by three weekends of open exhibitions by more than 100 artists all throughout Maui.
Maui Swing Escape 2020 – February 6, 2020
This unique dance getaway is your chance to enjoy a fun weekend with your friends and loved ones in the beautiful island of Maui. The annual Maui Swing Escape offers a variety of authentic Hawaiian experiences curated by locals who know the ins and outs on the island. From dancing and dining to snorkeling and hiking, the Maui Swing Escape will let you make the most of your weekends, with activities starting from February 6 to 10!
ArT=Mixx: ENCHANTED–Spirit of the Woods – February 1, 2020
As a celebration of beautiful art pieces and beats, the ArT=Mixx: ENCHANTED–Spirit of the Woods will be held on February 1 at the Schaefer International Gallery/Yokouchi Pavilion of the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. This event is aligned with the current art exhibit of The Woodworker’s Journey. The ArT=Mixx will feature exotic sounds by Cudra Clover, music by Beat Kitty, a performance by Adaptations Dance Theater, art by Maui Art Life, and visuals by Astral Projection. Free admission to anyone 21 years of age and above, with a limited number of VIP tickets. Food and beverages will be served throughout the event wherein you can wear your enchanted costume and mingle with your fellow art enthusiasts.
Whale Day 2020 – February 8, 2020
To celebrate its 40th year of protecting the oceans, Pacific Whale Foundation is partnering with Whale Trust, Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and Division of Aquatic Resources – DLNR – Hawaii, to provide interactive displays on marine research, education, and conservation as well as a keiki carnival, local food vendors, hula performances, Made on Maui arts & crafts vendors, expert speakers and more. Join the celebration at Kalama Park with the Parade of Whales marking the beginning of the celebration starting at 9 am on February 8 at South Kihei Road.
These are just a handful of things to do in Maui, Hawaii during the start of this year! There is much more in store for your vacation holiday in West Maui, so why not add an island vacation to your 2020 bucket list. Hope to see you enjoying the warm Hawaiian sunshine soon!
The post Exciting Events to Look Out for in West Maui this 2020 appeared first on Kahana Village.
