This Week on Maui: June 28-July 4

Our week on Maui comes to a close this week with Independence Day. Did you know that the Declaration of Independence was actually approved on July 2nd? As John Adams wrote to Abigail, "The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival."

(Why do we celebrate the 4th instead of the 2nd? That's the day the Declaration was printed for the first time.)

Some great things are happening this week on Maui. First, on Friday, July 2nd, it's the First Friday celebration in downtown Wailuku. Every month, food and craft vendors come, stores stay open late, and there's plenty of live music and entertainment. This month, Maui Thing -- a clothing boutique on Market Street -- is celebrating its 2nd anniversary with a fashion show and a concert by the great Willie K. It should be a great night.

The next morning, head upcountry to the old cowboy town, Makawao, for the annual 4th of July paniolo parade starting at 9:00 a.m. Paniolo are Hawaiian cowboys and this annual parade coincides with the 55th Annual Makawao Rodeo at Oskie Rice arena on Olinda Road. Rodeo events on Saturday begin at 1:00 p.m.