Wailuku's 1st Friday Town Party

On every first Friday of the month historic Wailuku town host a celebration and block party on its aptly named Market Street. For several blocks the road closes and pedestrians rule, as an outdoor street fair sets up at 5:30 pm with free music and entertainment running from 6 to 9 pm, plus an assortment of dozens of craft and food vendors. The vintage Iao Theater and the many 1950's and 1960's era storefronts make Wailuku's Friday celebration come a glow by night, with many stores opening late and hosting special events to coincide with the monthly community event.

Highlights:
With live entertainment on several stages this monthly free street fair hosts island food and crafts vendors galore. The little town feel of Wailuku is charming, and retro with vintage store fronts and some of Maui's most unique stores, coffee shops, and art galleries.

Location:
Wailuku, Maui

Hours:
5:30 to 9 p.m.

Wailuku's first Friday town party originated the series of events that are now hosted by a different island community each subsequent Friday through out the month. The mix of street vendors, and storefront businesses create a relaxed environment for shopping, and encourage you to stroll about in the cool evening breeze.

Live local musical entertainment changes monthly, as do the crowds and special offerings by area businesses, but rest assured it is always a fun time especially for families with children or romantics seeking a fun night out.

Face painters, henna tattoo artists, hula hoppers, and clowns can often be seen interspersed amongst jewelers, massage therapists, and some of Maui's most unique one of a kind stores for clothes, art, music and more.

There is even a courtyard beer garden midway down Market Street with its own private stage and lighting. This area has a controlled admittance for those 21 years or older, and beverages stay inside that restricted area. There is also usually a band performing in the courtyard, providing an outdoor opportunity to dance if you wish.

Locals Tips:
Coming early gets you the best choices of foods from vendors and close parking. This Friday event has the most parking options and is easy to find. Check out the Wailuku Coffee Company has great curbside seating right in the middle of all the action for great people watching over coffee as your plot your fun plans for the evening.

Directions:
From Lahaina: 35 minutes driving time, add 10 minutes or more if in Kaanapali or Kapalua. Take Hi-route 30 North to its end point in the town of Wailuku, continue through traffic light and travel one block to stop sign intersection. Turn right onto Vineyard Street and make first right onto Church Street. Make first left into municipal parking lot and look for parking. The celebration is off the eastern side of the parking lot, easily found by following the pedestrian traffic.

From Kahului: Take Queen Kaahumanu Avenue (HI-route 32 west) through town heading uphill toward Wailuku town. Once you cross under the small over pass and bridge, get in the right lane and turn right at the first traffic light intersection for Central Avenue. Follow Central Avenue for 100 yards looking for Vineyard Street on left. Turning onto Vineyard Street head two blocks, then cross Market Street looking for turn off into parking lot on left. The celebration is off the eastern side of the parking lot, easily found by following the pedestrian traffic.