If you’re visiting Maui this week and want to experience Hawaiian culture beyond the beach, Kū Mai Ka Hula is a wonderful opportunity.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026, Kū Mai Ka Hula returns to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului for its 20th anniversary. The name means “Hula Appears,” and the event is Maui’s premier adult hula competition.
20 Years of Hula on Maui
Kū Mai Ka Hula brings award-winning hālau together to compete in solo, group and kūpuna categories. Male and female dancers from Hawaiʻi and the continental United States will perform both kahiko and ʻauana hula.
If you’re new to hula, this is a wonderful chance to see two distinct styles.
Kahiko refers to traditional forms of hula, while ʻauana refers to modern hula. Watching both gives visitors a glimpse into the depth and evolution of this important Hawaiian cultural practice.
The event is presented by Maui Arts & Cultural Center in association with Kauahea Inc., a nonprofit founded by Hōkūlani Holt to support Hawaiian arts and culture.
More Than a Hula Competition
Before the competition begins, students and faculty from Hawaiian culture immersion school Ke Kula ʻO Piʻilani will share oli, mele and hula.
Visitors can also browse displays from Hawaiʻi artisans and crafters, with food and beverages available for purchase in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard.
Event Details
📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026
⏰ 1 p.m.
📍 Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Castle Theater 1 Cameron Way, Kahului
🎟️ Adults: $40
🎟️ Children 12 & under: $20
Taxes and fees are included in the listed ticket prices.
The MACC is also asking patrons to consider bringing non-perishable food donations for the Maui Food Bank.
Experience a Different Side of Maui
Maui is famous for beautiful beaches, Haleakalā and the Road to Hāna, but some of the most memorable experiences happen when visitors have an opportunity to learn more about the culture of the islands.
Kū Mai Ka Hula offers exactly that.
At Kihei Rent A Car, we love helping visitors get out and discover the communities, traditions and events that make Maui such a special place. If you’re on Maui September 12, consider making Kū Mai Ka Hula part of your island adventure.
Enjoy the performance and experience the beauty of hula on Maui.
