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Tree Lighting Ceremony to help needy children

By Staff | Nov 25, 2009

Kapono

KAPALUA — The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua and Ka Hale A Ke Ola Resource Center have joined together this holiday season in an effort to raise funds for Maui’s less fortunate children. 

The resort will host the 16th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 4.

The free festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. 

Resort and community guests are invited to gather at The Makai Lawn to enjoy a variety of live entertainment and family photos with Santa. 

The Ritz-Carlton will present cookies, punch, hot chocolate and other special holiday treats.

Attendees are encouraged to bring low-backed beach chairs and picnic blankets.

The event will benefit the children of Ka Hale A Ke Ola, Maui’s homeless resource center, through the sale of tree ornaments. 

Ka Hale A Ke Ola CEO Rebecca Woods said, “Working on this annual project with The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is always the highlight of the year. It is a time when the children work hard to perfect their hula and show their talents.” 

Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua General Manager Tom Donovan added, “Now more than ever, this partnership is important to help our community endure these tough times.”

Entertainment will include the children’s hula halau and well-known Hawaii musicians, including Henry Kapono.

The theme for this year, “At Home in the Islands,” was created by Kapono through the subject of one of his many award-winning musical compositions. 

“Living in Hawaii means that our families and aloha extend far beyond the borders of our yard. This holiday season is especially tough on our children. The Tree Lighting Event is a fantastic time to show how much we care about others that share this island,” Kapono said.

With the flick of a switch, 250,000 holiday lights will illuminate the pool courtyard and official holiday tree.

The bright lights will serve as a beacon to encourage Santa to touch down at Kapalua.