The postponement this year of one of West Maui’s most popular events is bringing people to tears. Traditionally held the first Saturday in May, the annual Maui Onion Festival is on hold due to renovations at Whaler’s Village, its host site. The festival will resume in 2016.
The event draws thousands of residents and visitors to the oceanfront Kaanapali shopping venue every year to learn more about one of Maui’s most famous agricultural crops. The all-day schedule features chef demos, onion eating contests, food booths, music and entertainment, and the Maui Onion Pairing dinner, which matches dishes from island chefs with Maui Brewing Co. beers.
Fortunately, there is still plenty of fun to be had at Whaler’s Village. Daily activities include hula lessons, coconut husking and lei making as well as evening performances of Polynesian and Tahitian dance. For updates and schedule of events, visit the Whaler’s Village website.