Source: Maui Time, Maui News, Best of Maui, Maui Activities

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The Parade, the Launch and the Mele
Now through Saturday (May 26), on Front St. in Lahaina

May 24, 2007

[FESTIVAL OF CANOES] Canoes are pretty cool. What’s even cooler is the people who sail them. Sail them? Not sure if that’s the proper terminology but you get the picture. We’re talking major navigational skills, and awesome use of the coconut. I went on one of those train tours at the Maui Tropical Plantation once and the guide told us how the Polynesians who did the whole canoe thing would bring young green coconuts aboard instead of fresh water. It was in a handy natural container, stayed fresh and had the perfect balance of electrolytes to keep them hydrated under the hot Pacific sun. If you found this tidbit of info at least a little bit interesting, you should check out the International Festival of Canoes in Lahaina Town. You’ll probably learn a lot of cool stuff. This Saturday they’re having a Parade of Canoes at 10 a.m. down Front Street, followed by Ho‘olaule‘a festivites, a ceremonial launch and live entertainment.  It’s a great opportunity to learn about this aspect of our Hawaiian culture. For info visit online at www.MauiCanoeFest.com or call 667-9193. [LILIANA BEGLEY]