Kaunakakai Saturday Market Revival

Residents and visitors fondly recall the vibrant Saturday morning outdoor market that was held in Kaunakakai, where vendors sold a variety of goods including fresh produce, art, jewelry, baked goods, and local delicacies like musubi, mochi and kulolo. This bustling market fostered a sense of community with impromptu reunions and shared connections. The COVID pandemic halted this weekly celebration of local products, and subsequent changes to Ala Malama’s sidewalks have made it impractical for the market to return there.

To revive this cherished tradition, the Molokai Arts Center (MAC) and the Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC) are teaming up. Moving the market from its current location in front of Grace Church in Ho’olehua to the large, grassy field at MCHC will make it more central for residents on the island, along with offering ample parking, restroom access and tent coverage.

Margot Kenly, a volunteer who not only assisted with the new location move but is also a frequent shopper at the market, explained how it was difficult for her to drive all the way up to Ho’olehua from the east side to go grocery shopping at the market.

Vendors will begin setting up at 8 a.m., and the market will operate every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. A dedicated market manager will oversee the organization of booths for artists and sellers, with plans to include segmented sections such as a food area, a produce section, and other specialized categories.

Crafters, farmers, and entrepreneurs interested in participating can contact MAC volunteer Kim Markham at 808-349-6270. The MAC Saturday Market at MCHC is scheduled to debut on Saturday, July 13.