EVENT SCHEDULE
2025 Schedule of events
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FRIDAY, APRIL 18
E ala E & HIUWAI ceremonies
5:45am – 6:30am – Honokahua Beach (D.T. Fleming Beach)
An annual tradition of the Celebration of the Arts. Join Iokepa Naeʻole and cultural practitioners for an invigorating ceremony guaranteed to rejuvenate your body and spirit. Chants are offered by all to the rising sun. Attendees should bring swimwear and towels. Note: Photography and video is prohibited.
Ka Wai A Kane ME KANALOA – Private Awa Ceremony
8am – 9am – Plantation Lanai, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Hawaiian practitioners and hotel executives sit on the sacred mat to sip the bitter waters of Kane pledging support to all things Hawaiian. Participation by invite only, however public viewing is encouraged. Note: Photography and video is prohibited.
Wehe ka ipuka…Open the GATEWAY
9:45am – 11:15am – Lobby, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Emotions and spirituality run high as traditional chants of genealogy and the islands are expressed by practitioners asking permission to be a part of the Celebration of the Arts. The Namahana Award of Excellence will be presented to kupuna (elders) who have dedicated their lives to serving the culture.
MĀKEKE • LOCAL Art, DISPLAYS, CRAFTS, SHOPPING
11am – 4:30pm – Salon 3 & 4, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
More than 50 artists, crafters and Hawaiian practitioners from all islands have gathered to share their expertise. Perfect your own heirloom or shop for locally-made treasures and gifts. Everyone is encouraged to visit, engage and create.
HUI MELE
12pm – 12:30pm – Lobby, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua will entertain you from their hearts, as they do every Aloha Friday.
Hawaiʻi Through The Lens of Hollywood
12:30pm – 1:30pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
How does Hollywood view the Hawaiian Islands and its people? Are we characters or are we real? This thought-provoking session will explore Hollywood’s portrayal of island life and its inhabitants with insights from those who have experienced Hollywood’s lens firsthand. Brancombe Richmond, Vene Chun, Kainoa Horcajo, and Frank B Shaner, the panel will delve into the authenticity of these representations and their impact on cultural identity, along with our role in shaping these ideas.
Celebration Music Matinee
1pm – 2pm – Lobby, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Kumu Joy Keōpūolani Salvador and Hālau Keʻala Kahinano O Puna will showcase their infectious aloha spirit! Exciting dance numbers, swaying hula hips, and a whole lot of greatness going on.
Why Are the Hawaiian Islands Important to Me?
2:30pm – 3:30pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
This heartfelt session features individuals who, despite living far from Hawaiʻi, return to the islands multiple times a year. What keeps drawing them back? Hear from Vini Joy, a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, residing in North California; Cynthia Nobriga, who resides in Arizona and a graduate of Maui’s St. Anthony High School; and Jay Dhesi. Both he and his wife graduated from University of Hawaii and fell in love with the islands, especially Maui, and frequently return to The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. Discover the deep connections and personal stories that draw these individuals back to the Hawaiian Islands time and again.
The Science of Shorelines: Discussing the Future of Hawaiʻi’s Beaches
3:45pm – 5pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Our experts will delve into the science behind shoreline changes, the impact of climate change, and the measures needed to protect these vital ecosystems. Discover how innovative research and community efforts can help preserve Hawaiʻi’s beautiful coastlines for generations to come. Panelists will include Duane Sparkmen of Treecovery and the County Arborists Commission, Chris Conger of Sea Engineering, and Keolahou Hinau Executive Director of Pili Kahaka.
Alaloa Live with Eric Gilliom
6pm – 9pm – Alaloa Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Relax with craft cocktails, sumptuous sushi and enjoy the lively sounds of Maui’s own Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning musician Eric Gilliom. No cover charge. Food and beverage for purchase.
Celebration After-Hours WITH WAIPUNA
9pm – 12am – Alaloa Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
A leader in Hawaiian contemporary music, the 9-time Na Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning trio joins us with their innovative sound. They take the stage for an upbeat ending to the first day of Celebration of the Arts. ID required. 21+ only. No cover charge.
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SATURDAY, APRIL 19
PLANT A LEGACY AT PU‘U KUKUI
8am – 11am – Meet at Porte Cochere, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Here is a truly unique opportunity to plant a legacy! Participants should meet at the hotel porte cochere and board a complimentary shuttle to and from Honolua Bay. A short 30 minute hike to field 52 will be the site of the Celebration of the Arts’ “koa forest to be.” Instructions and history will be shared by the Puʻu Kukui Watershed staff on its protection efforts. The future of the forest is bright when we all chip in to establish the roots. Hike/garden attire necessary. Hike is moderate. Age 6 years and older.
MĀKEKE • LOCAL Art, DISPLAYS, CRAFTS, SHOPPING
10am – 4:30pm – Salon 3 & 4, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
More than 50 artists, crafters, Hawaiian practitioners from all islands have gathered to share their expertise and help you perfect your own heirloom. Everyone is encouraged to sit, engage and create.
FILM SCREENING: HOMETOWN LEGENDS
10:45am – 12:15pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
In this documentary, nominated for “Best Made in Hawaiʻi Feature” at the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival, five legendary Hawaiʻi Island kūpuna share their moʻolelo of life ‘back in the day’ and how they see it changing in this modern age. Following the film, directors Kolby Moser and Nainoa Langer will share behind-the-scenes insights and lead a brief Q&A with master pahu drum maker Keoni Turalde, one of the five kūpuna in the film.
Walking With Wellness
11am – 12:15pm – Hawaiian Garden, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Join Hawaiian wellness practitioner Kahu Lyons Naone on a walk and talk through the gardens of the hotel to point out various plants and flowers that are beneficial to your health. What are the plants, how are they gathered, and how are they prepared? Science and spirituality in unison.
From the Beginning to the End
12:30pm – 1:30pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring artisans who have been a part of the Celebration of the Arts for a remarkable ten consecutive years or more. These dedicated artists will share their unique journeys and insights on how this annual event has been instrumental in their growth and success, along with takeaways moving forward.
Celebration Music Matinee
1pm – 2pm – Lobby, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
During this special performance, witness the artistry and passion of Kumu Hula Iola Balubar and the talented, graceful dancers of Hālau Hula o Keola Ali’i o Ke Kai.
How do the Hawaiian look at Hawaiians?
1:45pm – 2:30pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
This session will explore the perspectives and experiences of Native Hawaiians, delving into cultural identity, community, and heritage. Panelists will include: Dr. Kamanaʻopono Crabbe (a seasoned spokesman and representative for the Native Hawaiian Community); Dane Maxwell (Cultural Advisor to the Maui Ocean Center, member of Kiaʻi Kanaloa, owner of Pilina Media, LLC and CKM Cultural Resources, and former vice chair and district representative for the Maui Lānaʻi Island Burial Council); and Walter Ritte (Activist, one of the “Kahoʻolawe Nine,” Hawaiian practitioner, and educator).
From the Eyes of the Beholder: A Tribute to Clifford Naeʻole
2:45pm – 4pm – Salon 1 & 2, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Join us for a tribute to Clifford Naeʻole, who has served as event chair for Celebration of the Arts for the past 33 years. We will honor his invaluable contributions to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture, featuring reflections from individuals that Clifford has inspired. Through their stories and memories, we will celebrate his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the Hawaiian community. Don’t miss this opportunity to pay homage to a true cultural steward.
CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS LūʻAU
5:30pm – 8:30pm – Aloha Garden Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Savor an outright feast of contemporary cuisine and Hawaiian foods, topped off by dazzling portrayals of Hawaiian history as you witness vignettes by the cast of Tales of the Kapa Moe, led by Kumu Pono Murray. This feast of friendship, food, music, hula, and fireknife dancing will be the finest in the Hawaiian Islands. This event will sell out! Advance ticket purchase required. Please visit this link for reservations. Cost: $169+tax (general admission); $129+tax (kama‘āina with valid Hawai‘i ID); $59+tax (children ages 6-12); Children 5 and under are free.
Alaloa Live with Kūikawā
6pm – 9pm – Alaloa Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Enjoy stunning views of Honokahua Bay, delectable sushi, and craft cocktails by Kūikawā. No cover charge. Food and beverage for purchase.
Celebration After Party with The Mākaha Sons
9pm – 12am – Alaloa Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Relax and recall your many experiences over the weekend as we close out the Celebration of the Arts with The Mākaha Sons, who stand proudly as one of Hawai’i’s most esteemed Hawaiian musical groups. To this day, they continue to nurture and expand the legacy of the traditional Hawaiian sound. Ages 21+ only. ID will be required for entry. No cover charge.
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SUNDAY, APRIL 20 – EASTER SUNDAY
Easter Brunch at Ulana terrace
10am – 3:30pm – Ulana Terrace, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Indulge in an enticing variety of culinary delights at our Easter Sunday Brunch, from sumptuous seafood to freshly prepared sushi, a noodle bar, succulent ham, decadent desserts, and much more. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and celebrate this joyous occasion together. Reservations are necessary. Please visit OpenTable or contact Concierge at 808-665-7089 for reservations. Cost: Adults $158++ | Kids ages 6-12 $85++ | Kids 5 and under $20++.
MAHALO!