Lahaina Old Prison

Lahaina Old Prison

If you’ve ever driven around Lahaina Town and happened to turn onto Prison Street, you may have encountered a small but foreboding structure fronting a large, completely walled in lot, known as Hale Pa’ahao. Built in the mid-1850s, Hale Pa’ahao – which literally translates to “stuck-in-irons house” – was Lahaina’s first real prison. Residents could get locked up for crimes as egregious as furious riding, lascivious conduct or the most common: drunkenness.

Fast forward about 170 years or so and the “Old Prison” is now a historical site that is open to the public during visiting hours. But if you happen to wander into the courtyard during the last Saturday of the month, you’re in for a major treat. It’s “Movies at the Old Prison” night.

People start to arrive around 6pm, carting lawn chairs, blankets and takeout meals from nearby casual restaurants. Children are in tow, especially for the family films. Friends and neighbors often call across the grounds, “Hey, Pat! Haven’t seen you around lately!” or “Is that your girl? She’s gotten so big!” Hugs, handshakes, and laughter abound, as are trips to the popcorn and snack stand. Yes, of COURSE there’s popcorn! And it’s freshly popped on the spot.

Started by the Lahaina Restoration Society last year, this free monthly event has grown from an audience of about 100, to nearly triple that amount.

A variety of films have been shown thus far, but the most enthusiastically received ones have been about Maui and local Hawaii folks. For example, the July 29th showing will feature “Hawaiian: The legend of Eddie Aikau.” Born in Lahaina, Eddie Aikau was a legendary big wave surfer and lifeguard who risked (and ultimately lost) his life in an effort to get help for his fellow crew members when the Hokule’a capsized. This heroism inspired the popular bumper sticker “Eddie Would Go.” Eddie embodied the spirit of aloha and continues to inspire.

We LOVE Lahaina Old Prison Movie Night and if you’re ever in Lahaina during the last Saturday of the month, you’ll know where to find us.

Oh and speaking of popcorn…here’s a local style popcorn recipe that’s sure to please.

Aloha, Greg & Leah

Here’s a local snack for your movie night!

Hawaiian Style Hurricane Popcorn

Instructions

Hurricane Popcorn Salt:

1. Combine the salt and furikake seasoning in a blender.
2. Blend and gradually increase the speed. Blend until mixture becomes powder. Store for future use.

Ghee:

1. Melt butter in a small saucepot over low heat. Let it simmer until the milk solids have settled at the bottom of the pot and turned golden brown.
2. Strain through a fine mesh and coffee filter. Store in a jar for up to 6-12 months.

Hurricane Popcorn:

1. In a medium pot, add the oil/ghee and popcorn kernels. Heat over medium heat and cover.
2. Cook until the popping stops. Remove from the heat and add the popcorn to a serving bowl.
3. Drizzle on the ghee to desired consistency. Sprinkle on the popcorn salt to taste and garnish with furikake seasoning. Add in a handful or more of the mochi crunch.

Hawaiian Style Hurricane Popcorn Recipe from Ono Hawaiian Recipes