Ka`u Abuzz for Coffee Festival

Coffee connoisseurs, perk up. This year’s Ka`u Coffee Festival is set to kick off this Friday, April 26.

A rising star in the world of high-end beans, Ka`u-grown berries are gaining a strong following, with growers and roasters winning both state-level and international awards at cupping competitions.

Harvesting their crops in the southern-most part of the United States, Ka`u Coffee farmers have been slowly building the region’s reputation since the late 1990s, when former sugar plantation workers turned their efforts toward coffee growing.

This year, festivities kick off on Friday, April 26 with the Ms. Ka`u Coffee Pageant at the Ka’u Coffee Mill, followed on Saturday by the elegant “Ka`u Farmers Table” at the Inn at Kalaekilohana. Then, head back to the Coffee Mill on Sunday for the free-to-attend “Triple C Recipe Contest.”

Ka`u Coffee is being increasingly recognized at international cupping competitions.

The following weekend on May 3, Aikane Plantation Farms will host the “Coffee and Cattle” experience. Also, be sure not to miss the free Ho`olaulea being held on May 4 at the Pahala Community Center featuring musical performances, food and crafts.

A variety of tours, lectures, and events will be held throughout the 10-day celebration, including rainforest hikes, stargazing, and a “Coffee College.”

The Ka`u Coffee Festival runs from April 26 through May 5.

For ticket prices and more information, visit the festival website at
http://www.kaucoffeefest.com or call (808)-929-9550.