Made in Hawaii Festival Preparations Begin

The Annual Made in Hawaii Festival is scheduled for August 21-23, and although it’s still four weeks away, this year’s festival has already confirmed nearly 500 booths featuring local products and exhibitors, the largest number of exhibitors since the inception of this event in 1995.

This year, more than 35,000 visitors are expected to attend the festival, which will be held at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall and Arena in downtown Honolulu.

The Made in Hawaii Festival website has the full list of exhibitors, some of which include:

Aloha Kine

Ahhhloha Bath Salts

Alii Kula Lavender

Hawaiian Chip Company

and many more!

The Made in Hawaii Association estimates that booth vendors, who come from five of the Hawaiian islands, will sell more than 2008’s $1.5 million take, plus an estimated $10 million in residual sales for the following 12 months after the show. That's some serious sales given the current economy. If you can make it, expect to see some of the best local foods, crafts, and products as Hawaii celebrates its 50 years of Statehood.

Entry is just $3 and this looks like one of the best local festivals to be held all year - perfect for those wanting to stock up on local Hawaiian products.

Hawaii State Farm Fair - July 18-19

Looking for something to do this weekend? Why not head to the Hawaii State Farm Fair at Bishop Museum?

Planned activities at the Fair include:

Livestock Exhibit
Farmer's Market
Huge Plant Sale
Cooking Demonstrations and Exhibits
Corn Husking and Watermelon Eating Contest
Kiddie Rides and Live Entertainment

The Hawaii State Farm Fair for Hawaii residents costs $5 for adults, $3 for children, and $15.95 for adults, $12.95 for children if you are a visitor to the Islands. For more info head to the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation website. Have a great weekend!

Back to Hawaii Blogging - Hawaii's 50th Anniversary

Ok, so I was able to share my memories from the New Kids concert, and now its back to the business of all things Hawaii. Thanks to those who read my blog post about New Kids!

Did you that Hawaii will be celebrating its 50th anniversary of becoming the 50th state in August 2009? Nearly 9 percent of the population claim to have some degree of native Hawaiian ancestry. Recognized by Governor Lingle as an official part of the statehood celebration, groups and individuals from the mainland are invited to participate in arranged events, including American Musical Salute to Hawaii, "Aloha 50" birthday party for 50 year olds, and the Aloha Classic Music Festival. However, while some will be celebrating, many native Hawaiians believe that statehood was a theft of their nation and press for sovereignty. In 1993, President Bill Clinton signed a resolution apologizing for the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. One of the only places in the Islands that truly reflects traditional Hawaiian life and culture, is on the island of Ni'ihau, off the coast of Kauai, where 160 residents of native Hawaiian origin live and speak the native Hawaiian language. How awesome is that? I would love to take a trip to that island some day, although I don't think the residents would be too impressed if I asked to interview them for my blog - or if they would know that a blog is for that matter.....

Even if you can't make it to Hawaii in 2009, you should take the time to celebrate this momentous occasion. My suggestion - have a luau, or perhaps head out to a nice Hawaiian restaurant in your area (if any). But do celebrate; the Hawaiian Islands are a place of dreams and good times, not to be forgotten. John, Jimmy and I will be celebrating in February - can't wait!