Saturday, September 6, 2025 | 4 PM–9 PM | Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, Lahaina
Join us for an evening of remembrance, connection, and aloha as we honor Lahaina’s enduring spirit. Held under the Full Harvest Moon on the grounds of Maria Lanakila Catholic Church—one of Lahaina’s cherished historical landmarks—this free community event features cultural and reflective activities, live entertainment, keiki performances, and a moving sunset procession to Puʻunoa Beach led by cultural practitioner Kamaunu Kahaiali‘i. As we gather in the heart of Lahaina, we honor the past and hold space for healing, hope, and resilience.
This meaningful procession invites participants to walk from Maria Lanakila Catholic Church to Puʻunoa Beach, lanterns in hand, guided by reflections from Kumu Kamaunu Kahaiali‘i and other cultural and historical voices. Along the way, participants will pause to hear moʻolelo (stories) and memories that honor the people, places, and legacy of Lahaina. Portions of the path will be softly lit, creating space for quiet reflection—not only on what was lost, but on the memories we carry and the strength that leads us forward. At Puʻunoa Beach, the community will gather for a shared moment of light and remembrance.
The Lahaina Time Capsule invites the community to pause and put pen to paper—capturing this moment in history not just as a memory, but as a message to the future. Guests are encouraged to contribute letters, poems, drawings, or reflections addressed to a future Lahaina, loved ones yet to be born, or even their future selves. Submissions will be sealed in an archival-grade capsule to be buried at Maria Lanakila Catholic Church and opened on August 8, 2043—the 20th anniversary of the wildfire.
Guests of all ages are invited to decorate and dedicate their own lanterns—symbols of light, love, and healing. Whether honoring someone lost, expressing gratitude, or offering a wish for Lahaina’s future, each lantern becomes part of a collective installation glowing across the church grounds. This activity invites quiet reflection, shared storytelling, and emotional release, allowing individuals and families to honor what matters most. Lanterns and markers will be provided on site. Guests are welcome to take their lantern home as a meaningful keepsake of the evening.
Lahaina’s youngest voices are honored through this uplifting art and story project entitled “My Wish for Lahaina.” Keiki are invited to reflect on what Lahaina means to them and share their hopes for the future. Submissions can also be made after the event. Entries will be featured in an online tribute to be released and shared on the LahainaforLahaina.org website in November 2025. Parents or guardians are encouraged to participate alongside their keiki.
Throughout the evening, attendees will be uplifted by the sounds and stories of Lahaina. Entertainment will feature local musicians and hālau hula, while cultural practitioners and storytellers will share moʻolelo that bring Lahaina’s history and spirit to life. These performances and narratives will celebrate the cultural richness of Lahaina and showcase the resilience of its people and the enduring spirit of aloha.
Inspired by the Hawaiian value of hā—the sacred breath of life—this quiet space invites guests to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with their inner calm. Through simple breathing exercises and mindful stillness, Hā Moments offer attendees a chance to slow down and ground themselves in the present. Held just before the Light March, this activity helps prepare those who choose to participate in the walk, while offering a peaceful space for all guests to reflect and recharge.
Mālama Lani—“to care for the heavens”—invites guests to pause, look to the skies, and reflect on the deep connection between earth, ancestors, and the universe. A guided experience under the stars from the heart of Lahaina, this activity explores Hawaiian celestial constellations that have long guided our past—and continue to inspire us as we navigate the future. With telescopes and gentle lighting to enhance the experience, this peaceful moment under the stars offers space for wonder, reflection, and connection.
Informational Tables offer opportunities for learning, connection, and reflection. Located in a designated area of the church grounds, guests are invited to visit and engage with organizations that have been instrumental in Lahaina’s recovery and cultural preservation efforts. Through heartfelt conversations, visitors can learn about efforts to support survivors, protect sacred spaces, rebuild homes, and strengthen community ties. This activity reminds us that healing doesn’t happen alone—it happens together.
Activities subject to change.