Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest to feature food, shopping, bon dancing

June 26, 2015

Contributed by Mae Nishimura

Honolulu’s biggest bon dance is happening at the Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest, on Friday, July 3, from 5:00 to 10:30 p.m. at the old Varsity Theatre parking lot on Kamehameha Schools land. The annual festival will also feature taiko drum demonstrations, local food, retail pop-ups, cultural entertainment and activities for the keiki.

Kamehameha Schools has partnered with the Mō‘ili‘ili Hongwanji Mission, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, Mō‘ili‘ili Community Center, the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Mō‘ili‘ili businesses and community groups to host the free event aimed at showcasing the neighborhood's history and vibrancy.

"One of our most-anticipated events, Mō’ili’ili Summer Fest allows the public a unique opportunity to celebrate Obon season while enjoying the many retailers and restaurants that Mō’ili’ili has to offer,” said Constanza Asfura-Heim, Kamehameha Schools senior real estate analyst. “It’s a great event that brings together the local community, culture, the university, businesses, food and entertainment and is fully funded by donations and sponsorships.”

Visit the Kamehameha Schools booth and taste fresh produce from KS’ agricultural lands. The booth will feature tea from the only certified organic, Native Hawaiian māmaki tea farm in Hawai‘i. You’ll also enjoy fresh and delicious food from Otsuji Farm. Don’t forget to say hi to the folks from Holoholo General Store (2014 First place Mahiʻai Match-Up winner). Take a spin on the KS prize wheel for a chance to scoop up prizes like tote bags, tumblers and more!

Additionally, over 30 popular food trucks and mobile food vendors from Street Grindz will be serving up ʻono food. Entertainment includes 13-year old singer and songwriter, Aidan James and 10-year-old DJ, Jojo Flow, as well as a taiko drum performance by the Pacific Buddhist Academy.

For more Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest information, visit www.moiliilisummerfest.com or get updates via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest

WHAT: Festival featuring bon dancing, cultural entertainment, food, shopping and keiki activities. WHEN: Friday, July 3, 2015 5:00 to 10:30 p.m. WHERE: Varsity Building Parking lot; 1100 University Avenue PARKING: Free parking at the UH music and law school parking lot and top floor of the UH parking structure. Mention Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest at the guard booth. Shuttles will run continuously from the UH Law School from 4:45 – 10:45 p.m. Visit www.moiliilisummerfest.com for details including a vendor list and schedule of entertainment.

KS partnered with Mō‘ili‘ili Hongwanji Mission, UH, and Mō‘ili‘ili businesses and community groups to host the fest.