Cool and refreshing treats like acai bowls and fruity Samoan vaifala, and carnival-style eats like funnel cakes, fully loaded french fries and popcorn whose aroma will pull you toward it by the nose are just some of the fun foods to be found at the “Ewa’s Got Talent” Hoakalei Hoike event Saturday.
“This is going to be our fifth Hoakalei Hoike,” said Lisa Enanoria, project manager for Haseko Development Inc.
The company’s events have raised funds and awareness for the Ewa Weed and Seed Project, a nonprofit aimed at reducing crime and drug use, as well as the Lions Club, a service organization. The cost of the event itself is covered by Haseko, Enanoria said.
Filipino cuisine including classic lechon and lumpia will be prepared by J’s Tasty Bites, and Dia de los Tacos LLC will serve its authentic Mexican street food, which might include the company’s popular elotes (Mexican street corn).
“EWA’S GOT TALENT”
>> Where: End of Keoneula Boulevard
>> When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday
>> Cost: Free
>> Info: 202-1279, info@haseko.com
Hula Shrimp Co. will bring its local favorites including crusted ahi, and new vendor Heart 2 Table will offer crab sliders, tempura Spam rolls and Filipino ice candy, among other choices.
With savory and sweet offerings, fully loaded french fries and funnel cakes will be prepared by Heavenly Treats 808.
HI Cravings’ customizable offerings, including acai bowls, can be as healthful or indulgent as desired. One of its toppings is an edible cookie dough, for instance.
To wash everything down, Tea Girls Hawaii will make its signature vaifala, or milk-based fruit drink, as well as its mix of flavored iced teas and other refreshing drinks.
Enanoria estimates that food choices will cost around $5 to $15.
Roughly two dozen craft and retail vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase at the event, which will be staged past the guard shack near the end of Keoneula Boulevard in Ewa Beach, on Haseko property that normally is not open to the public.
“A lot of the Ewa Beach community has been curious about the progress of our development,” Enanoria said — and Hoakalei Hoike will be an opportunity for people to check it out.
Attendees may park along the street. Mats and blankets might be helpful for picnicking on the grassy median while enjoying the food and entertainment. Some seating will also be provided under tents.
This time around, entertainment will be provided by talented area residents, including singing and dancing acts competing for a $400 prize. El Control 808 is the DJ for the event.
The goal of staging Hoakalei Hoike is to “be a really good neighbor and partner up and do things that are great, as a benefit for everyone, doing something that families can go to, bring the kids and enjoy entertainment,” Enanoria said.