Just in case you need another excuse to party while you’re here in Maui, why not celebrate some of our favorite residents – the humpback whales? Each winter, the humpback whales make the long trek from Alaska all the way down to the safe, warm waters of Maui. We love our whales, and they’re even a part of our ancient mythology. So, it’s probably not surprising that we’ve created an entire week of celebrations around the whales, culminating in World Whale Day on February 18th.
Start Celebrating Early
Though the primary party is on February 18th, the World Whale festival actually starts days earlier with a Run & Walk for the Whales on Saturday, Feb. 4th. If you need to burn a few calories from all those pina coladas you’ve been drinking, then sign up for the 10k or 5k run. If you really want a challenge, then go big and sign up for the half marathon. You can even bring the kiddies along and do the 4k walk together or sign them up for the 1k run.
The first annual World Whale Film Festival takes place on Saturday, Feb. 11th. You’ll get to see some amazing films from up-and-coming filmmakers from around the world. Don’t forget to buy some popcorn!
World Whale Day
The main festivities will be taking place on Feb. 18th when World Whale Day kicks off with the Parade of Whales down S. Kihei Road. From between 9 and 10 am, you’ll get to see creative floats, fun costumes, and marching bands.
After the parade, make your way to Kalama Park, where you can hear live music until 6:00 pm from great artists. On the Keiki Stage, you’ll get to see fun performances, including hula dancers, acrobats, and even the Banana Slug String Band (we know you’ve been dying to see them live in concert).
Keep your wallets handy, because you’ll definitely want to partake in the ‘Ono Food celebration. Maui’s top restaurants, chefs, and food trucks will be delivering the island’s best farm-to-table treats to you. If you still have a little money left over, make your way to the Maui Artisan Fair where you can stock up on souvenirs for yourself and all the unfortunate folks who couldn’t make the trip out with you.
Oh, and did we mention that there’s a carnival too? There is. Your kids are going to love the bouncy castles, crafts, games, face painting, and the Maui Spider Jump, an all-new reverse bungee experience that will be debuting in 2017.
If you plan on visiting Maui in February, you can’t miss this celebration. Event coordinators are expecting 20,000 visitors. It will be a great way to celebrate the humpback whales and Maui culture with Maui residents. Learn more about the event and get your tickets at WorldWhaleDay.
Since you can’t just take a snooze in the ocean like the humpback whales, check out our available condo rentals in South Maui so you have a place to stay during the festivities.
