HONOLULU (KHON2) — Victims of the Lahaina wildfires continue their path forward as they rebuild. Loved ones will come together the week of Aug. 8 to reflect on how far they’ve come one year later.
Maui residents said even a year after the Lahaina fires, it is hard to face all that has been lost but hope to find closure. Several special events will pay tribute to 102 victims and two people who remain missing.
“I am feeling really nervous. We still really haven’t emotionally moved on yet. I think everybody is trying, but the reality of what had happened just a year ago is still very evident every single day,” stated Maui County Councilmember Nohelani U’u-Hodgins.
Starting Aug. 8, officially one year after the wildfires, a Paddle Out off the shores of Hanakaoo Beach Park will begin at 8 a.m. Residents are asked to park at the Lahaina Civic Center where shuttle services will be provided.
“I’ve never seen a more resilient community where everybody just pulled together to lift each other up and they were one and that was impressive,” said U’u-Hodgins.
An Upcounty Aloha Luncheon will begin at 10 a.m. at the Hannibal Tavares Community Center for residents to come together in recognition of community resiliency.
“Mentally preparing is making sure that everyone in my family is emotionally stable,” said Victoria Ann Noelani Keawe-Aiko, a Lahaina resident. “I mean, it’s been a very challenging time for all of us.”
Starting at 5 p.m., a one-year remembrance ceremony to honor lost family and friends will be hosted at the Lahaina Civic Center.
“Some of the services are just to bring people together and remind everybody of the love and community that they have and still have,” said U’u-Hodgins.
The rest of the week will feature more events for communities to show support:
Friday, August 9
Aloha for Kupuna: Event dedicated to Lahaina Kupuna at the Lahaina Civic Center from 9 a.m. to noon.
Puana Aloha No Lahaina: Concert at the Lahaina Civic Center Gymnasium from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, August 10
Ka Malu ‘Ulu O Lele: Performance by Kamehameha Schools Kapālama 5th grade production at H.P. Baldwin High School Auditorium from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Lahaina Obon Festival: Lahaina Cannery Mall from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday, August 11
Day of Hope & Prayer: Lahaina Civic Center Gym from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Upcountry Aloha: Performances at The Oskie Rice Arena from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.