“It’s an opportunity to remind our friends in Southern California that the Hawaiian Islands are eager to welcome them, with new experiences and locally-made products abound, as we ensure tourism benefits our community.”
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Los Angeles got a taste of Hawaiian culture and spirit, with more than 60 Hawaii artists and entrepreneurs flooding Venice Beach.
Mana Up reported that the inaugural event brought 7,000-plus visitors to Saturday’s popup and enjoyed local Hawaii products.
“Today was incredibly awesome and insane at the same time. We had to overnight more inventory in last night. It’s already out on the tables and we don’t even know if we’re going to have enough for tomorrow,” explained Mana Up co-founder Meli James.
On top of shopping experiences, visitors enjoyed lei-making workshops, cooking demonstrations and tastings, cocktail classes with Ko Hana Rum and a bake sale with Hawaiian Pie Company.
Mana Up officials said the Los Angeles event exceeded attendance expectations and sales records, beating out other events held in New York City and Tokyo.
Los Angeles is Hawai‘i’s top domestic market and engaging events, like Aloha Market, are crucial to driving travel demand among this audience with a deep appreciation and love for Hawai‘i’s people, places and culture. It’s an opportunity to remind our friends in Southern California that the Hawaiian Islands are eager to welcome them, with new experiences and locally-made products abound, as we ensure tourism benefits our community.
Mufi Hanneman, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Board Chair
Not only did the event bring the Aloha spirit to Los Angeles, it also re-connected folks who are from Hawaii originally.
“People have been coming and just continuing to come and even coming back who came on Friday, came back today wanting more,” James added.
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The Aloha Market LA popup’s final day will be Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free so don’t miss it! Visit Aloha Market LA’s website for more details.