Taiko and sanshin players will take the stage during the Maui Okinawan Festival on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Maui Mall. PHOTO BY NAGAMINE STUDIO.

KAHULUI – Maui Okinawan Kenjin Kai (MOKK), along with co-sponsor Maui Mall, will hold its Maui Okinawan Festival on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kahului mall.

“Chibariyo” (Do Your Best!) is the theme of the festival, which is chaired by Janet Miyahira, Christine Hondo and Eileen Taketa with lots of support from MOKK members and friends.

The entertainment program will feature continuous Okinawan music and dance performed by homegrown talent from Maui as well as performers from Oahu. Taiko and sanshin players will take the stage.

There will be something for everyone at the Maui Okinawan Festival – even a craft fair featuring the arts, crafts and jewelry of vendors from Maui and Oahu.

Of course, no Okinawan festival is complete without lots of Okinawan food. The event will feature delicious pig’s feet soup, an Okinawan plate lunch, chow fun, andagi and a new item this year: taco tice (taco goodies on rice).

Professional photo sessions in traditional Okinawan wear will also be available for children and adults, with all proceeds to benefit MOKK.

The Country Store will feature homemade pickles, jams and jellies, maki sushi and baked goods. Festival T-shirts will be available for sale.

Children are sure to have fun with the games and activities planned for them.

For more information on the festival, call the Maui Okinawan Cultural Center at 242-1560.

MOKK, a nonprofit organization, is committed to promote fellowship and mutual understanding among its members; to promote and perpetuate, as well as encourage, the appreciation of Okinawan heritage, culture and arts; and to promote intellectual welfare of its members and the community.

Membership is open to everyone, those whose roots are in Okinawa Prefecture in Japan, as well as others who are interested in the Okinawan culture. The group is affiliated with the Hawaii United Okinawan Association.