Generations of Aloha: Alumni and Students Unite at Kalikimaka Craft Fair

Lahainaluna High School held its annual Kalikimaka Craft Fair on Saturday, December 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Boarder’s Field. The event brought together students, families and local vendors for a day of food, entertainment, and holiday shopping. The fair also served as a major fundraiser for Papa Hula o Lahainaluna, which is raising money for a cultural exchange trip to New Zealand in March 2026.

This year’s fair was the first one organized by Papa Hula advisor Kumu Ewa, who helped coordinate vendors, activities, and student-run booths. She explained that the event’s success depended on people coming together to support the school. “Anything that we do here at Lahainaluna can only be successful through community support, so everyone can thrive in our community,” she said.

The funds raised will help Papa Hula travel to New Zealand, where students will learn through a cultural exchange and experience what it is like to be around native Māori speakers. According to Kumu Ewa, opportunities like this are rare and meaningful for students who want to deepen their cultural understanding.

Papa Hula performer Mina Nagasako said she enjoyed seeing the fair bring people together. “I’m excited to see everyone share aloha and the community come together,” she said. Mina explained that the fair helps show what Papa Hula contributes to Lahaina.

“This event is important because it puts our name out there and shows what we contribute to the community, which is our culture, and showing what aloha is,” said Nagasako, adding that it felt “really fulfilling” to see so many people show support.

Many vendors participated, including Lahainaluna alumni. Nohili Hong, who graduated in 2019, sold her handmade clay pua kenikeni leis. She said events like this help keep the community connected. “I think it’s great to be a part of the community, especially in Lahaina.”

Current students also joined as vendors. Cy Yasutake, president of the Lahainaluna Aloha Club, sold handmade Christmas ornaments like painted wooden designs and crocheted ornaments. He says, “I think events like this matter for Lahainaluna because it acts as an opportunity for our vendors to get together and make an impact.”

According to Yasutake, a significant number of  alumni participated. It was meaningful, he said,  “to see current students meet those who have made an impact on our school.”

As the day went on, the fair offered live entertainment, food trucks, giveaways, and dozens of craft booths. Even though the event only lasted a few hours, it brought the community together in a strong way and helped Papa Hula move closer to their 2026 New Zealand trip.