Residents are invited to come together to mark two years after the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires at three gatherings presented as the second year of Kuhinia Maui.

This year’s gatherings will honor the memories of loved ones lost and the resiliency of a community recovering from Hawai‘i’s most devastating wildfire disaster. The events will also offer residents opportunities to gather and support one another as the community continues to heal.

The memorial gatherings scheduled for Friday, Aug. 8, 2025 include:

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Morning Paddle Out

7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Hanaka‘ō‘ō Beach Park, West Maui

The event will feature messages of hope, prayers and music; spectators may watch from shore. Due to limited parking and public safety needs, Hanaka‘ō‘ō Beach Park will have designated equipment drop-off and pick-up areas. Vehicle parking will be at the Lahaina Civic Center with shuttle service provided.

• 7 a.m. – Gates open / shuttle service begins

• 9:30 a.m. – Program begins

• 10 a.m. – Launch

• 11 a.m. – Return to shore; music by Nā Leo Pilimehana

• 1:30 p.m. – Program concludes

• 2 p.m. – Final shuttle departs for Civic Center

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Midday Gathering

Noon – 12:45 p.m. (refreshments provided)

Kalana o Maui (County building, Wailuku)

This heartfelt memorial gathering at the County building will honor those affected by the wildfires throughout the County, and offer a moment of reflection, unity and support for the community.

Evening Tribute

Lahaina Civic Center

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

This evening tribute will offer comfort and strength as a resilient community comes together in remembrance, reverence and fellowship. Out of respect for the community’s desire for sensitivity and dignity, this event is not for media coverage. Additional details, including reservation links and event guidance, are available at: www.kuhiniamaui.org.

Reservations are requested for the Kalana o Maui and the Lahaina Civic Center gatherings. Volunteers also are needed for all events. To make a reservation or sign up to volunteer, please visit www.kuhiniamaui.org.

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Donations of debranched flowers, petals and small leaves for paddle out scattering are being sought (no stringed lei). Donations may be dropped off between 4 - 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, fronting the Kalana O Maui building, 200 S. High St., Wailuku.

Kuhinia Maui takes its name from a line in a traditional Maui chant that proudly speaks of the unequaled beauty and richness of Maui, highlighting that Maui and its people will rise from tragedy.