Second Annual Summer Fest Quickly Approaches

The 2^nd Annual Summer Fest is scheduled for July 5 at the Shops at Mauna Lani.

Co-sponsored by The Shops at Mauna Lani, Hulakai Surf, and Hawaiian Island Creations, the event will wrap up the fourth of July weekend, featuring free activities that include a 100-foot water slide, rock climbing, carnival games, balloons, and prizes.

The Sunday family event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and encompass the community through fundraising for Big Island schools, like Waiakea Middle & Elementary School’s Chinese pretzel and beef jerky sales. On hand serving free cotton candy and popcorn will be team members of Kohala High School’s Robotics team. DJ Ed Geer will emcee the afternoon event.

In addition to the free activities, complimentary treats, and live entertainment, a wide variety of food will be available for purchase. Among the mouthwatering fare will be sliders and gourmet hot dogs cooked up by the chefs at Tommy Bahama and deliciousness for those who are meat-free, prepared by Under the Bodhi Tree. Discounts will be offered at Juice 101 and local favorites will fill the air from Manuela’s Malasadas, Kona Ice Truck’s shave ice, Chef Romeo’s Local-Style Food Truck, Aloha Macaron, Sweet Eatz Gelato, and Da Pulehu Wagon.

Discount 4D adventure rides and a photo booth with canoe are among the festivities for all ages.

Special giveaways and discounts will also be given by various stores within the Shops at Mauna Lani. Mini-kendama and Go Fish games are available through sponsorships from Hulakai Surf and HIC. Ocean activities and free Billabong Flash Tattoos will also be there for those interested.

Carnival games ranging from mini-golf and basketball to balloon pop and beanbag toss will be featured for attendees both young and old.

General Manager of The Shops at Mauna Lani, Michael Oh, expressed his excitement about the event. “We’re so happy that people are discovering The Shops as a fun and interesting place to be. In addition to our great stores and restaurants, Summer Fest is the perfect was to cap-off your 4th of July weekend, and we hope the whole community will come and enjoy.”