Here are some upcoming events that make us proud to be one L.O.C.A.L on Kauai.
Tree Lighting in Waimea, November 30th
On November 30, 2017 the West Kauai Business and Professional Association will be holding their annual tree lighting ceremony. This will be at the newly renovated Hofgaard Park in the center of Waimea town. Beginning at 5:30 and after the sunset, the tree as well as the historic town buildings and businesses will turn on their lights for the holiday season. They will exhibit their festive decorations.
This event sponsors keiki literacy and will feature a storytime for children. Mayor Bernard Carvalho will be present and read a story from Moana. The Waimea highschool band will also play.
County Buildings Festival of Lights, Lihue
Historic County Buildings Festival of Lights will run from December 1-30, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 pm. This event is featuring Christmas decorations made with recycled products. Also, local themed decorated Christmas trees that are influenced by Hawaii’s LOCAL culture will be featured. For more information you can check out http://www.kauaifestivaloflights.com
Rice Street Parade in Lihue, December 1st
On Friday, December 1, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 pm Rice Street will be holding its annual light parade. One of Kauai’s largest gatherings, the Lights on Rice event is definitely a must do. It is a treat to both visitors and locals. Live entertainment, food booths and many organizations, clubs, community groups and families make this event a true L.O.C.A.L (Loving Our Community and Lifestyle) experience.
Arrive early to find parking. Parking can be found near the Lihue Civic Center, Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall, Vidinha Stadium, and at business parking lots on Rice street. Free Shuttle services are provided at Kukui Grove Shopping Center from 5:00-9:00 pm. The shuttle will depart from the First Hawaiian Bank at Kukui Grove and will drop off guests at the First Hawaiian Bank on Rice Street. With the limited parking spaces on and near Rice Street, taking a shuttle is recommended for both Kama’aina and visitors. Rice Street will be closed down from 5:30 pm and will reopen after the event is finished. Please be aware that the closure may restrict your access to leave if you are parked near Rice Street.
Plan Ahead and Stay Safe
The parade will begin at Vidhina Stadium and will go through Rice Street ending at the Kauai County Building. It is best to plan and stay at the event. Take tme to enjoy the many different food vendors, shops, craft fair and boutiques that are in the area. There will be a variety of local products to purchase and great food to eat. Many participants and performers are in this year’s event. Advisors expect 60 units and 3,000 performers. Beautifully decorated floats along with energized walking troupes for various community groups and organizations will make this parade an entertaining and festive occasion. This is one of Kauai’s largest attractions. The Rice Street parade is a family event that is a must-see if visiting or residing on Kauai
For parades, please be sure to accompany your keiki at all times. Keep keiki on the sidewalks to be safe. Keiki will have the opportunity to get candy and treats from many of the groups and organizations in the parade. They will also get to see a number of Santa Claus. There are some pretty cool vehicles that you may not see otherwise.
Waimea Light Parade, December 16th
On Saturday, December 16, 2017 the 23rd Annual Waimea Christmas Light Parade will be taking place in Waimea. Starting from the Waimea Canyon Park the parade will, make its way down from Waimea Canyon Rd. to the main street of Waimea town (Kaumualii Hwy.) to Ala Wai Road. It will then head back West on Waimea Road to end back at Hofgaard Park. This annual event is one of West Kauai’s largest gathering for locals. The parade features many hand crafted floats created by over 40 different groups. Many of our local organizations, businesses and families are represented.
Holiday Tradition continues
Westside LOCALS, look forward to this event as it is a tradition. It makes those living here appreciate the community we live in, the love we have for each other and the beautiful island that we share. The event first started in 1994 with only a collection of lighted fishing boats, a red tractor, and a few walking and bicyclists that was led by the mayor in a fire truck. Over the years, this annual event has grown in the number of participants as well as its popularity among local families and visitors alike. It is a once a year event in Waimea, where the Holiday Season is at it’s best. The quiet little town is vibrant and energized with entertainment, good food and lots of people on the streets mingling and having a good time.
Parking for the Event
This event is not as large as the Lights in Lihue Parade. However, there will be many people in town trying to stake their spot for viewing the parade. For convenience in parking, it is best to park on the Kekaha Side of Town across from the Waimea Plantation Cottages and alongside the road. There will be very little parking in Waimea Town as many residents and businesses will have had most parking taken well before the event starts. You will even see lawn chairs and people set up seating areas for the their family and friends three to four days before the event. With that being said, the best thing to do is come early before the bridge closes at 5:30 pm.
Spend some time exploring the West side of Kauai, which may include: visiting the beaches, going up to Waimea Canyon/ Kokee, getting a bite to eat, grabbing some snacks and refreshments, or hanging out in the town well before the big party begins.
Preparing to arrive in Waimea Town at 4:00 pm to get a good spot is advised. Kaumualii Highway will reopen after the parade is finished (This may be around 7:00-7:30pm) so if you are trying to get somewhere, plan accordingly. Only emergency vehicles will be authorized to use Kaumualii Hwy and head eastbound.
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