Orchid Show Party Benefits Mediation Center

The Hilo Orchid Society’s 62nd Annual Orchid Show and Sale at Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium will begin Thursday evening, July 31, with a Preview Party to benefit the Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center.

The Orchid Show kick-off event, 6 to 9 p.m., will feature drinks, food, music and the opportunity to purchase new hybrids and exotic orchid species before the show opens to the general public. Other unusual plants and orchid-related products will also be on display and for sale, said a release for the event.

Fine wines, beer from Kona Brewing Co. and coffee from Hilo Coffee Mill will be available, along with food from Island Naturals and AJ & Sons Catering, featuring the stylings of local food columnist Audrey Wilson. Ticket holders receive a souvenir wine or beer glass upon entry.

Local artists will perform and the event will be zero waste with eco-friendly eating utensils, recycling and composting stations.

Proceeds benefit affordable dispute prevention and resolution services for the East Hawai‘i community, and the Hilo Orchid Society scholarship fund, providing financial assistance to UH Hilo tropical agriculture students.

Tickets for the Preview Party are $65 ($25 is tax deductible). Purchase in advance from The Most Irresistible Shop, Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center, or call Julie Mitchell, 935-7844 x 116.