WAIMEA, KAUAI- Visit Kauai's most historic town, which hosted the first Christmas in the Hawaiian Islands. George Dixon an English sea captain was anchored off at Waimea in 1786 aboard the Charlotte. He ordered a Christmas dinner and a bowl of punch prepared in honor of the occasion.

A pig was brought from shore and roasted. The day's ration of grog was mixed with coconut milk and the crew toasted friends and family at home in England. In Hawaii, we celebrate Christmas with "Mele Kalikimaka", carols in Hawaiian, light displays, and Norfolk Island pines. We think it is nippy outside, but it is all relative.

A brilliant wonderland of color and the spirit of fellowship are the hallmark of the annual Waimea Lighted Christmas Parade starting at 6pm, Saturday, December 12/30/2008. Come early, browse through shops, eat dinner and stay for the entertainment following the parade at Hofgaard Park. The event is free and visitors are welcome to join in this colorful community event. Waimea Town, dripping with lights, a brilliant wonderland of color serves as a backdrop to its annual Lighted Christmas Parade.

The parade, held since 1995, begins at Waimea Canyon Park and goes down Kaumualii Hwy to Ala Wai Road and Waimea Road to end at Hofgaard Park in the center of town. For everyone's safety, no parking will be allowed along the Parade Route and expect traffic to be extremely slow. Please keep children on the sidewalks. Organizers suggest finding a spot for parade viewing by 5:00pm.

Sponsored by West Kauai Professional and Business Association along with area merchants and businesses. Funding has been provided by County of Kauai Office of Economic Development, First Hawaiian Bank, American Savings Bank, Kauai Community Federal Credit Union, Kauai Island Utility Company and more!

Publicity Chair Chris Faye The event started in 1995 with a collection of lighted fishing boats from Kekaha and Waimea, bicycles, a red tractor, U.S. Navy SEPTAR, a few walking units, the mayor and our fire truck. In 2006 there were 46 floats and walking units. The fire truck and the mayor still lead the parade that goes through the fully lit main street of Waimea Town. Even if you miss the parade don't forget to drive through town at this time of year to enjoy the Christmas lights.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Parade 6:00 pm.

Entertainment to follow

At Hofgaard Park.

Light Refreshments provided by

Area Merchants & Businesses.

Parade route along Kaumualii Hwy

from Waimea Canyon Drive to Ala Wai Rd next to the bridge.

Parade ends on Waimea Road at Hofgaard Park.

Parade review stands at Waimea Public Library

And at the Stage next to First Hawaiian Bank

For more information www.wkbpa.org or