The 18th annual East Honolulu Food Festival is set for Saturday, May 2, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Kāhala. The ticketed event is held by Mary, Star of the Sea Church and Schools on the school grounds (4470 Aliikoa St.).
Themed “Under the Moon in Old Hawaiʻi,” the festival is a family-friendly event that features local cuisine.
The festival allows unlimited tasting portions from more than 20 participating restaurants and purveyors. The event is the largest festival in East Honolulu, attracting about 2,000 individuals.
“The event is designed to be accessible with reasonably priced tickets and tons of activities for keiki,” explains event co-chair Amy Bender. “Every year, there’s a new theme. This year, guests will be dazzled ‘Under the Moon in Old Hawaiʻi’ with vintage and retro flair under what will be a full moon that evening.”
Participating vendors this year include bEASTside Kitchen, Katsu Sando 808, Il Gelato, Kamitoku Ramen, Kapa Hale, Maile’s Thai Bistro, Mango Mango Hawaiʻi, Quiora, Tight Tacos, Vintage Books Hawaiʻi and more.
Attendees can also look forward to a Trader Vic’s Bamboo Bar featuring Island-inspired cocktails — sponsored by Kai Vodka — and an assortment of craft beers from Kona Brewing Co.
The event will also feature kid-friendly activities, a live DJ and silent auction; prizes include staycations, restaurant gift certificates and more. All bids will support Mary, Star of the Sea Church and Schools.
Free parking and shuttle service will be available for attendees at nearby Kalani High School.
Tickets for the event cost $100 per adult and $40 for children ages three to 13; children under three have free admission. VIP tables are also available and include premium experiences like servings of prime cuts from Hy’s Steak House.
Proceeds from the event will support educational activities for Mary, Star of the Sea Church and Schools, as well as programs for the community.
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Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.
