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On September 6, more than 870 people filled the historic grounds of Maria Lanakila Catholic Church for the inaugural Lights for Lahaina, a free, community-shaped event of reflection, healing, and resilience. This inaugural event was presented by Aloha Amplified, Inc. in collaboration with Mālama Maui ʻOhana Foundation and the community.
Under the full Harvest Moon, the church grounds came alive with keiki artwork, lantern decorating, traditional lomi lomi, hā moments, and cultural storytelling that added to the healing spirit of the evening. Community information booths representing more than 16 nonprofits and organizations also offered resources to support rebuilding, resilience, and care for Maui’s ʻohana.
The Light March became the centerpiece of the gathering, drawing more than 350 participants who were transported by Polynesian Adventure Tours to Puʻunoa Beach. From there, the community walked together back to the church, passing historic sites along the way. Thousands of lanterns and solar lights lit the shoreline and seawall, where volunteers — including many impacted by the 2023 wildfire — placed lights during a moment of silence before voices rose together in Hawai‘i Aloha.
“When we walk side by side, chant, sing, and carry the light forward, it affirms that Lahaina’s spirit cannot be extinguished,” said Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaiali‘i, cultural practitioner and Aloha Amplified board member, who guided the march. “Each lantern was more than just light — it was a prayer, a story, and a promise shining against the darkness. Together, we honored what was lost and illuminated the hope of what will rise again.”
Throughout the night, mele, hula, and storytelling lifted spirits and reminded attendees of Lahaina’s strength. Original songs from local artists, heartfelt messages from Lahaina leaders, and performances by keiki and kupuna alike created a sense of togetherness that went beyond entertainment. As one participant shared, “The music carried our grief, but it also carried our hope.”
Two of the activities offered during the September 6th event are continuing opportunities for Maui’s ‘ohana to participate in.
Sponsors who helped make the event possible include: Maui Strong Fund of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, Sacred Hearts School, Na Kia‘i O Maui, Tyler Coons Maui, Pacific Media Group, Rotary Clubs of Maui, Polynesian Adventure Tours, County of Maui Office of Economic Development, Maui Pono Foundation, Roy & Betty Sakamoto, Paul & Jillina Dinletir, The Episcopal Diocese of Hawaiʻi, Pasha Hawaii, Joyce Chung, First Hawaiian Bank, Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health Connection, Maui Paradise Properties, Maui Food Technology Center, Jonathan & Guacolda Zinsmeyer, and The Mark and Debi Rolfing Foundation.
For highlights of the September 6th event and a full list of Sponsors and Supporters, visit LightsforLahaina.org/mahalo. To view a short video capturing the highlights of the evening, click here.
About Aloha Amplified, Inc.Aloha Amplified, Inc. is a Hawai‘i-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community resilience, cultural preservation, and economic vitality across Hawai‘i. Through events, programs, and initiatives, the organization works to amplify the voices, stories, and needs of the community — especially in times of recovery and rebuilding. Learn more at AlohaAmplified.org.
Maui Nui Strong is a program of the County of Maui Office of Economic Development that connects our residents, businesses, and visitors to useful information about Maui County, our diverse islands, and a variety of resources that help to promote thriving and vibrant communities.
