A year has passed since Lahaina, the historic heart of Maui, faced the deadliest fire in over a century. Native Hawaiians have regarded Maui as their sacred place for centuries, and Lahaina is at the heart of this spiritual connection. It was here that the first capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom was established. Carmen Lindsey, chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, stated that "Lahaina holds some of the most historically significant cultural properties and highest-ranking sacred remains of our ancestors."
Nearly a year ago, the once vibrant town of Lahaina was engulfed by flames, marking the largest natural disaster in Hawaii since Hurricane Iniki. In less than 24 hours, the community of 9,100 residents saw their beloved town reduced to ashes, a somber echo of its lively past.
As we approach the one-year anniversary, it’s important to recognize the extensive efforts that have gone into Lahaina's recovery. From local officials to national agencies like FEMA and the Hawaii Community Foundation, the collaboration has been monumental. The Governor recently acknowledged the progress made, thanking everyone involved in the recovery efforts. The resilience displayed by the people of Lahaina has been nothing short of inspiring, with the community coming together to support one another through these challenging times.
Rebuilding is underway, with some residents beginning to see their new homes take shape. Over two dozen building permits have been issued, with local crews working diligently to restore essential services like clean water, electricity, and sewer systems. This progress is a beacon of hope, symbolizing the slow but steady path to recovery.
The Kula region similarly reflects a powerful tale of resilience and community spirit. In August of last year, Kula also faced its own harrowing challenge as wildfires swept through more than 1,000 acres, claiming 19 homes. The local fire department, stretched thin by simultaneous blazes across the island, found unexpected support from Kula residents. Approximately 40 to 50 individuals mobilized with their own equipment to prevent further devastation—an inspiring testament to the community's unity and strength. This collective effort continued into the recovery phase, with extensive volunteer involvement in land rehabilitation projects. One part of these efforts is thanks to the Kula Community Watershed Alliance, who has spearheaded the removal of invasive Black Wattle trees to reduce fire hazards and promote the growth of native, fire-resistant vegetation.
To commemorate this significant anniversary, Lahaina’s public schools will close on August 8th, allowing the community to participate in the Kuhinia Maui events—a series of gatherings designed for remembrance and healing. These events, including a paddle-out, stage productions, and an Obon festival, will honor the 102 lives lost and celebrate the enduring spirit of Maui.
The name "Kuhinia Maui" is derived from a traditional chant that praises the island’s unmatched beauty and resilience—a fitting homage to a community poised to rebound from tragedy. We invite you to learn more about the events and participate in this significant period of reflection and recovery. For more details and updates, visit KuhiniaMaui.org and consider signing up for text notifications.
As Lahaina and Kula continue to heal and rebuild, we move forward together, fortified by the spirit of aloha that defines us.
If you're looking to donate and support recovery efforts, here are two excellent resources to help you choose an organization and get involved!
The County of Maui’s website, www.mauirecovers.org, offers crucial information for those affected by the August 2023 wildfires, including updates on debris clearance, water and sewage systems, infrastructure developments, permit processes, housing, and upcoming events.
Additionally, the County’s www.MauiNuiStrong.info website serves as a valuable resource for residents, businesses, and nonprofits, providing the latest news, events, and support resources. This site also details various ways to help wildfire survivors through donations and volunteer opportunities.
The following scheduled events are subject to change.
Thursday, Aug. 8
Paddle Out
An ocean gathering off the shores of Hanakaoo Beach Park. Due to limited parking and public safety needs, equipment drop-off with shuttle use from Lahaina Civic Center is required. Shuttle details and Hanakaoo drop-off instructions to be posted on https://www.KuhiniaMaui.org website.
9 a.m. – Hanakaoo Beach Park, Lahaina
Upcountry Aloha Luncheon
For residents of Upcountry Maui to gather in recognition of community resiliency during and in the aftermath of the August 8thwildfire that impacted Upcountry.
10 a.m. – Hannibal Tavares Community Center, Pukalani
One-Year Tribute and Remembrance
A community gathering in reverence of loved ones who perished in the August 8th tragedy. Out of respect for the community’s request for sensitivity and dignity, this event is not for media attendance.
5 p.m. – Lahaina Civic Center
Friday, Aug. 9
Aloha for Kūpuna of Lahaina
Kupuna are a cherished anchor of the community. The gathering brings kūpuna of Lahaina together to enjoy camaraderie and time to talk story. Sign-up required for participation; please visit https://www.KuhiniaMaui.org for more information.
9 a.m. – Lahaina Civic Center
Puana Aloha No Lahaina
Paying tribute through music, this event brings together entertainers including Lahaina musicians to perform traditional and contemporary songs of Lahaina.
6 p.m. – Lahaina Civic Center
Saturday, Aug. 10
Kamehameha Schools, Kapālama student performance of Ka Malu ‘Ulu o Lele
Kamehameha School Kapālama students return to Maui in an encore performance of their live stage production of Ka Malu Ulu o Lele: The Shaded Breadfruit Grove of Lele. Over 100 sixth- graders traveling from the school’s ʻahu campus will perform in the student-led show that tells the history of Lahaina’s legacy from revered alii to modern-day aloha aina champions.
1 p.m. – Baldwin High School, Auditorium
Lahaina Obon Festival
To give the community the annual tradition of Obon despite the loss of their temples, Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, Lahaina Jodo Mission and Lahaina Shingon Mission have combined efforts to host a special Obon Festival event that honors ancestors through traditional Japanese dance and music.
5 p.m. – To be announced
Sunday, Aug. 11
A Day of Hope and Prayer:
Led by faith leaders of churches and temples that were lost in the fire, this interfaith gathering brings forward hope as recovery efforts continue. A worldwide moment of silence will be held at noon.
10 a.m. – Lahaina Civic Center
Upcountry Aloha
To give aid to farm and ranch animals in danger of the wildfire, Oskie Rice Arena opened its grounds to give safe shelter in the midst of the crisis impacting Upcountry Maui. This special event will welcome Upcountry residents to gather and share in an evening that honors community resilience and spirit.
5 p.m. – Oskie Rice Arena, Makawao
For more information, email coordinator Daryl Fujiwara at [email protected].
Together, We Are #MauiStrong.
