Hanapepe in full bloom this weekend

Watercolor and oil painting workshops, an orchid array of more than 250 flowering plants, special gallery displays, world-class music, food and entertainment for all ages are on tap for the eighth annual Orchid and Art Festival in Hanapepe this weekend.

At the heart of the festival: the coveted orchid.

“The orchid is the second most frequently purchased plant in the world next to the poinsettia,” said Ada Koene, spokesperson for the Garden Island Orchid Society.

The festival is being held at various locations in Hanapepe with many of the events, such as the free Makana concert, on the main stage  at the Hawaiian Congregational Church.

“I’m passionate about Kauai,” said Makana, who has performed twice at the White House, most recently for the Asia Pacific Economic Alliance. “The island affects me profoundly. When I would visit as a child, I would feel like it was the last place before the unknown.”

The concert will be 3 -4 p.m. Saturday.

Other musical acts will include the Joyful Noise Taiko Drummers, Paul Togioka, Aowl Own and ukulele talent Brittni Paiva.

 Massage students will be offering their services. Children’s musical and gymnastic activities will be offered as well, by Kindermusik. A 90-minute town walk with great views and stories of Hanapepe starting at the Tea Room at Storybook Theatre will be Saturday.  There will even be a rooster crowing contest.

The event is sponsored by the Hanapepe Economic Alliance, the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Kauai festivals and events.

 Events are free with the exception of select workshops. Times are  from 1 to 9 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Most events occur in at the Hawaiian Congregational Church. The Spring Fantasy Orchid Show will be showcased at the United Church of Christ.

Info: 335-5944 or 651-9801 or visit www.Hanapepe.org.