Multiple sources reported on the third anniversary of the August 8, 2023 Maui wildfires, which killed more than 100 people and destroyed thousands of structures in Lahaina. Maui County hosted a free all-day community gathering called ‘Kuhinia Maui’ on August 8, 2026, bringing together residents for music, cultural activities, and reflection. The event signaled continued community healing as Lahaina’s recovery efforts press forward.
- The free ‘Kuhinia Maui’ event was held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lahaina United Methodist Church on Baker Street, near the recently reopened Front Street
- Activities included live music performances, a Broadway-style production called ‘Lele Wale’ by Ikaika Mendez, complimentary meals, lauhala keepsake-making, and decorating memorial shirts, luminaries, and ʻulu leaves
- Mayor Richard Bissen stated the event was intended to ‘create space for our community to remember in the ways that feel meaningful to each of us’
- The event name ‘Kuhinia Maui’ is drawn from a chant in ‘Na Mele Welo’ by the late scholar Mary Kawena Pukui, chosen to reflect the island’s resilience (Aloha State Daily)
- Several performers in ‘Lele Wale’ were Lahaina residents who personally experienced the 2023 wildfires (Maui Now)
- The evening program included a blessing by Kumu Kapono’ai Molitau and remarks from West Maui Councilmember Tamara Paltin (Maui Now)
- The event was described as led by the communities of Lahaina and Kula with county support
Sources
- Aloha State Daily: Maui County hosted free community event in Lahaina, three years since…
- Maui Now: Kuhinia Maui brings community together in three-year remembrance of 2023 Wildfires
- KITV: Lahaina continues on the road to recovery as Saturday marked the three year anniversary of the Maui wildfires
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