LAHAINA – In Hawaii, residents celebrate two special holidays. One is to honor Kamehameha I, who united all of the islands, and the other pays tribute to Prince Jonah Kalanianaole Kuhio. Known as “Ke Ali’i Maka’ainana” – the “Prince of the People” – Kuhio was born on March 26, 1871.

The Lahaina Hawaiian Civic Club invites everyone to join in their free two-day observance of Prince Kuhio Day on Saturday and Sunday, March 26-27, under the Lahaina Banyan Tree. Enjoy local food favorites, Maui made crafters and artisans, Hawaiian music, hula, exhibits and keiki activities. On Sunday, the Easter bunny will join the celebration at 10:30 a.m.

Kuhio was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawaii until it was overthrown by a coalition of American and European businessmen in 1893.

He later went on to become a representative in the Territory of Hawaii as delegate to the United States Congress. He was the first Native Hawaiian and only person ever elected to that body who was born a royal.

A staunch advocate for all things Hawaiian, today the fruits of his life’s work are still alive and have become legacies. He organized the Royal Order of Kamehameha I and the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs.

Event partners include the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Lahaina Hawaiian Civic Club, Smythe Fujiwara Design, Hawaii Maoli and LahainaTown Action Committee.

For more information on the ho’olaule’a, e-mail lhcchopekakau@gmail.com.