This Saturday, Kaimuki will host its annual Keep it Kaimuki event, a neighborhood affair where community members are encouraged to support local businesses through an array of activities, food, and entertainment. According to Spectrum Local News, over 30 businesses are participating, offering deals that feature discounts up to 20% off.
Centered at Aliiolani Elementary School, the event touts a petting zoo, a "larger-than-life" snow globe photo op, and an outdoor market with more than 30 vendors. Jordan Lee, owner of The Public Pet and the event’s founder, expressed his appreciation for the local support, saying, "As a small business owner myself, it warms my heart to see the outpouring of support we receive from our local community — both from shoppers and small businesses — for Keep it Kaimuki Saturday year after year." In keeping with the day's discounts, shoppers can enjoy specials at participating businesses, such as 20% off at The Public Pet, 15% off at Sugarcane, and 10% off at Red Pineapple, as per Spectrum Local News.
Free trolley rides will be offered throughout Kaimuki, and Sacred Hearts Academy will provide complimentary self-parking, streamlining access to the festivities. A virtual Christmas tree lighting and concert will be hosted at Puʻu O Kaimuki Mini Park and can be viewed on Keep it Kaimuki's Instagram Live, as reported by Spectrum Local News.
Patrick Twohy, regional manager of Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, emphasized the significance of shopping locally, "When you shop local, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in the people and businesses that make our community thrive," he told Hawaii News Now. A sentiment reflecting the event's community ethos, Keep It Kaimuki aims for more than just holiday shopping by fostering a vibrant local economy. For a full roster of participating businesses, the event's details can be found at keepitkaimuki.com.
