Life is Fair…Maui County Fair is Back!

Life is Fair…Maui County Fair is Back!

Aloha Family & Friends,

As we near the end of September, we have officially crossed into the Fall season. Yes, even here on Maui with our tropical landscape and year around sunny skies, we look forward to the unique events Autumn has to offer. This year there’s one event that we’re particularly excited to tell you about. After a six-year hiatus, the Maui County Fair is BACK! From October 2nd through October 5th, the War Memorial Special Events Complex will once again come alive with the excitement of every “fair” activity from rides to livestock to the best chow fun ever.

So, you can imagine our surprise a few months back when we first heard that the County of Maui had committed $1.5 million in support—covering operations, personnel, and marketing—to help reignite this decades-old tradition. In a return to the iconic elements of the past, the fair would include a parade, carnival rides, food booths (many run by local nonprofit organizations), cultural performances, contests, and a lively community atmosphere.

Why is this seemingly common event so relevant? The revival means much more than just fun and festivities—it’s a restorative moment for Maui’s ʻohana. After years of disruption from the pandemic and financial challenges, the fair’s return provides space for community reconnection, cultural expression, and shared joy. For many local nonprofits, the fair is a vital fundraising and outreach platform: around 44 nonprofit food booths are planned, giving mission-driven groups a chance to engage directly with the public and raise needed funds. It also encourages volunteerism, sponsorship, and cross-sector collaboration, reinforcing the bonds that make Maui strong through challenges and celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage.

At Kaanapali Luxury Living, we’re excited to see the fair return and can’t wait to support this special event both as volunteers and as attendees. It’s a tradition that reminds us of the strength and spirit of our island community, and we’re proud to be part of it. Now, point us in the direction of the malasada line.

Aloha, Greg & Leah

FEATURED LISTING OF THE MONTH

MONTHLY MAUI MARKET UPDATE

Malasadas are one of the most popular foods in Hawaii to date but if your local County Fair doesn’t serve up these tasty treats, here’s a great recipe to make them anytime you like!

Instructions

1. Combine the warm evaporated milk, warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Give it a quick whisk and let it stand until it gets foamy. About 10 minutes.
2. Add the bread flour, salt, sugar, froth mixture, and eggs in the stand-up mixer. Mix Everything together using the hook attachment.
3. When the dough begins to form, add the butter. Mix for another 8 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a large bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about one hour.
5. After the dough has risen, punch it down, reshape, cover, and let it rise again for another hour.
6. Place the dough on a well floured surface. Dust the top of the dough with more flour and flatten it out to about ¾ inches thick using a rolling pin.
7. Cut the dough into oval shapes. Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let it rise for 30 minutes.
8. Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pot. Heat the oil to 360-375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry each side of the donut for a few minutes or until golden brown.
9. Transfer fried donuts to a baking sheet lined with paper towels or wire rack. Cool before stuffing with any filling.
10. To fill, poke with a chopstick and jiggle around a little to create a cavity inside. Fill a pastry bag with your choice of filling and stuff the donut until it is firm and plump.
11. Serve and enjoy this onolicious Malasada!

Enjoy!

The Best Malasada Recipe in Hawaii Recipe from Ono Hawaiian Recipes