| Run for the Whales | learn more Saturday, February 7, 2009 Runners and walkers are invited to join in the popular Run for the Whales along the scenic coast of South Maui -- from Wailea to Makena. Runners choose from a 5K walk or fun run or a half marathon run...plus a 2K children's race! Participants receive a free race t-shirt, a free post-race breakfast, and free accurate timing (for the 5K and half marathon). There are medals for the top finishers and great prize giveaways; the entry fee is $35 for the half marathon, $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 2K. Fees benefit marine education programs for Maui schoolchildren. Race starts at the Polo Beach lot in Wailea (next to Fairmont Kea Lani). To register, click here for a downloadable entry form or visit www.active.com. You may also call 1-800-942-5311 ext. 1. Maui's Parade of Whales | learn more Saturday, February 21, 2009 Maui residents and visitors turn out by the thousands for this community parade in honor of the humpback whales that migrate to Maui each winter. Music, floats, gymnasts, marching bands, costumed characters and a life-sized humpback whale balloon are all part of the fun! 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. traveling south along South Kihei Road on Maui, ending at Kalama Park by the big whale statue. The parade is the official kick-off to Whale Day, a free, allday celebration of whales. Want to participate in the parade? Call Pacific Whale Foundation at 1-800-942-5311 ext. 1 or click here to email Lendie Leslie, Maui Whale Fesival Coordinator. Maui's Whale Day Celebration | learn more Saturday, February 21, 2009 Maui's largest and longest running celebration of its famous wintertime residents, the humpback whales! This free, all-day celebration-in-the-park is hosted by the non-profit Pacific Whale Foundation and includes live music by some of Hawaii's top recording stars, great food by popular Maui restaurants, a gigantic craft fair featuring more than 100 local artists, environmental displays, activities for children, a parade (at 9 a.m.) and lots of information about whales! Whale Day is free and open to all. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Kalama Park in Kihei. Keiki Eco-Fair A new feature at Whale Day, Keiki Eco-Fair is our initiative to educate children outdoors. Children of ages are encouraged to visit this environmental education "playground" offered by Pacific Whale Foundation and other island environmental groups. Keiki Eco-Fair will include many free, hands-on science and conservation activities. And of course, we can't forget the bouncy castles, carnival games, children's performances and popular environmental edu-tainers! The Great Whale Count | learn more Saturday, February 28, 2009 Make it a memorable morning by joining in this annual citizens' count of the humpback whales that can be seen along Maui's shorelines. No experience is required; there's no cost to participate. The research team at Pacific Whale Foundation will provide the training and the tools. It's a great way to learn about humpback whales and whale research, and see more whales from shore than you ever imagined! VIP Whalewatches with Pacific Whale Foundation President Greg Kaufman Sundays, February 25 and March 9, 2009 Take part in a very special whalewatch, led by Pacific Whale Foundation President and Founder, Greg Kaufman. This 2 hour eco-adventure cruise takes place on the Ocean Odyssey and includes a complimentary Whale Poster, free color Whale Watch Guide, and an autographed copy of Greg Kaufman's newest book, "125 Fun Facts about Humpback Whales." Whale sightings are guaranteed or you receive a "Just a Fluke" coupon and go again for FREE! $49.95 for adults, $34.95 for children. Early reservations are strongly encouraged on this inspiring eco-adventure. To book online, click here. |            |