Finding Hawaiian Culture at Maui’s Open-Air Malls

Finding Hawaiian Culture at Maui’s Open-Air Malls

  Part of feeling like you are in the islands is immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture. While there are sporadic events island-wide, malls on Maui have a full schedule if recurring events running the gambit from Polynesian music and dance to authentic crafts. The best part? Activities are free! Add a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, and you have a lovely half-day island adventure.

Here's what's going on:

VENUE: WHALER’S VILLAGE 2435 Kaanapali Parkway Lahaina, HI 96761  Google Map

Ukulele Lessons Mondays @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Learn to play the ukulele at this free weekly event at Whaler's Village.

Lei Making Classes Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Enjoy a complimentary lei making class.

All About The Coconut Wednesdays 11am – 12pm Gain unique insight about this Hawaiian staple and witness a husking demonstration.

Hula Shows Wednesdays & Saturdays 7-7:30 PM & 7:30-8 PM Enjoy free hula shows featuring Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe.

The Art of Weaving Thursdays 11:30am – 12:30pm Try your hand at the art of weaving with coconut fronds and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

VENUE: SHOPS AT WAILEA 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr., Suite B-51 Wailea, HI 96753 United States + Google Map

Coconut Husking Tuesdays @ 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Experience a demonstration of the traditional and modern methods in husking a coconut. Learn how the Hawaiians would use every part of the coconut from food to crafting eating utensils, jewelry as well as furniture.

Polynesian Show Tuesdays @ 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM This cultural performance will honor the many beautiful dances of Polynesia which includes Hawaiian hula, Tahitian and Samoan performances.

Island Wood Carving Wednesdays & Fridayss @ 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM A traditional island wood carving demonstration, an art form with stories deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions.

Lei Po’o Making Wednesdays @ 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Learn how to weave a basic Ti leaf lei using flowers and ferns which can be worn on the head or around your neck. Learn how the lei expresses love and was gifted on very special occasions by the Hawaiian Ali’i (royalty). Lei making is open to both keiki (children) and adults.

Coconut Frond Weaving Thursdays @ 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Weaving was a highly developed skill that Hawaiians used to make baskets, mats, jewelry and toys for the keiki. Learn how to make your very own keepsake to take home as a memory of your visit to Maui.

VENUE: MAUI MALL 70 East Kaahumanu Ave Kahului, HI 96732 United States + Google Map

Cultural Sundays Sundays @ 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Enjoy a FREE hula show from 1-2 pm at the Maui Mall Center Court followed by a Hawaiian Culture Workshop hosted by Manutea Nui E from 2-3 pm. All ages are welcome to participate and join in on the fun!

Maui Cruise ‘n Crafts Fair Mondays @ 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Browse a variety of local vendors who will be selling their handmade jewelry, crafts, and keepsakes. Also, enjoy live Hawaiian music from 1-3 pm while you shop and talk story with Maui-based artisans and business owners. Located at Maui Mall's Center Court.