This year’s World Whale Day performers will include Willie K. (right), Marty Dread (left), John Cruz, HAPA, Amy Hanaiali‘i Gilliom, George Kahumoku, Cyril Pahinui, and Manutea Nui E. PHOTO OF WILLIE K BY SEAN MICHAEL HOWER.

KIHEI – Pacific Whale Foundation will present the 36th annual World Whale Day and Parade of Whales on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Kalama Park in Kihei.

One of Maui’s most popular events, World Whale Day is an all-day celebration that honors the humpback whales that come to Maui each winter.

The festivities begin at 9 a.m. with a colorful, hometown parade along South Kihei Road featuring costumed sea characters and ocean-themed floats created by community organizations, schools and local businesses. The Parade of Whales is free and open to all spectators and participants.

World Whale Day festivities continue into the sunset at beautiful Kalama Park with an exciting lineup of some of Hawaii’s top recording artists and entertainers. This year’s performers will include Willie K., John Cruz, HAPA, Marty Dread, Amy Hanaiali’i Gilliom, George Kahumoku, Cyril Pahinui, and Manutea Nui E.

Keiki will have a whale of a time enjoying bouncy castles, fun games, cotton candy, shave ice and other great treats. There will be an array of ono food from local restaurants, food trucks and a farm-to-table market.

World Whale Day is also home to the original “Made on Maui” artisan fair, with local artists showcasing their unique, locally crafted wares.

Pacific Whale Foundation also provides space to other local environmental groups and green businesses working to preserve and promote the island’s natural resources.

World Whale Day is free for keiki under 12 and only $5 for those 13 and over. There will be free off-site parking and shuttles to Kalama Park all day.

For more information on World Whale Day, the Parade of Whales or other Pacific Whale Foundation events, visit mauiwhalefestival.org or call Annie Alvarado at (808) 856-8346.

To learn more about Pacific Whale Foundation, visit pacificwhale.org or call 249-8811, extension 1.

World Whale Day is a family oriented, alcohol-free event; coolers are not permitted.