9th Laupahoehoe Music & Culture Fest April 5

The 9th annual Laupahoehoe Music & Cultural Festival will take place Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park.

Malama Hawaii Nei, a non-profit that raises funds for keiki, schools and kupuna in Laupahoehoe, puts on the festival each year, said Lucille Chung, a festival organizer and community leader in the rural Hamakua Coast town.

“The original vision was to help the children and the elderly,” said Chung, who’s been involved in all eight previous events. “It’s always satisfying to see everyone smiling and having a good time. That’s what life is all about.”

This year’s music lineup features Times 5, Kanakapila, the Laupahoehoe School Ukulele Band, Halau Haa Kea O Kinohi, Komakakino, Hoonanea, Halau O Mailelaulani, Halau O Ke Anuenue and Kainani Kahaunaele.

There also will be a silent auction to benefit Laupahoehoe Charter School.

Ticket donations are $12 in advance, $15 at the gate, and children under 10 are free. Tickets are available at the 50’s Highway Cafe, Laupahoehoe; Hilo Guitars & Ukuleles; Taro Patch, Honakaa; Basically Books, Hilo; Gramma’s Kitchen, Honokaa; Hilo Sharks Coffee Shop, Honomu; and Hilo & Kona Music Exchange.

It’s an alcohol- and drug-free family event and no coolers allowed.

Co-sponsors are Walter’s Electric, Inc., C/A Generator Service, Laakea Solar Technology, 50’s Highway Cafe, Laupahoehoe Train Museum and Pacific Media Group.