KAHULUI – Taiko performances, karate demonstrations and Japanese dancing will be among the highlights of the 2015 Maui Matsuri kickoff event on Friday, May 8, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center.

The event will also feature minyo (folk) dancing, prize giveaways, a coloring contest sponsored by Sanrio and appearance by Hello Kitty. The event will conclude with bon odori (bon dance) practice around the stage at approximately 8:15 p.m.

The purpose of this free event is to engage the community and raise awareness of the upcoming 15th annual Maui Matsuri on Friday, May 15 (movie night featuring the return of Kikaida in the Maui premiere of “Kikaider Reboot”), and Saturday, May 16 (festival featuring food booths, keiki crafts and games, entertainment, contests and more).

Admission is free to all Maui Matsuri events. For more information on the kickoff event, call the festival hotline at (808) 283-9999 or visit www.mauimatsuri.com.