A major shopping event in Hawaii not only highlights local businesses but also celebrates the rich culture of the islands. For everyday shoppers, this means an opportunity to support small enterprises while discovering unique products that reflect the beauty and creativity of Hawaii.

What is the Ho’omau Market?

The Ho’omau Market is an annual event that showcases over 100 local businesses from across Hawaii. Now in its fifth year, the market takes place at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, drawing in people looking for local art, food, and crafts. The market occurs over two days: from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 13 and from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 14. This vibrant gathering serves as a great platform for local artisans and vendors to connect with the community, making it possible for shoppers to find one-of-a-kind items that are rooted in Hawaiian culture.

Supporting Local Artisans

Jaclynn Sabado-Eitel, the owner of Paradise Now, is one of the featured artists at the market. She appeared on Hawaii News Now’s Sunrise to discuss what attendees can expect. Her booth, D11, will showcase her unique designs and artwork, which draw inspiration from her upbringing on Maui. Sabado-Eitel’s creations often include motifs of shells, florals, and leis, as well as hand-painted artworks that reflect her island home.

The challenges of running a small business in Hawaii are not lost on her. “Shipping and other factors make it difficult,” Sabado-Eitel noted. However, she emphasizes that local entrepreneurs excel in creativity, finding innovative ways to thrive despite geographical hurdles.

An Artistic Journey

With a childhood filled with artistic encouragement, Sabado-Eitel has been a creator for as long as she can remember. She studied art at Kent State University and returned to Maui to continue honing her craft. Her paintings are characterized by a surreal-impressionist style, translating the island’s natural beauty and her personal experiences into visually stunning pieces. She finds inspiration not just from the landscape but also from friends and family, creating a sense of connection and community in her work.

Paradise Now has expanded beyond one location, offering its pieces at 2958 E. Manoa Road on Oahu and in downtown Wailuku on Maui. This growth reflects both her success and her commitment to showcasing Hawaiian culture through art.

The Bigger Picture

Events like the Ho’omau Market are essential for supporting local economies. They provide a platform for small businesses to flourish and for shoppers to engage with their culture. Buying from local artisans strengthens the community while offering a diverse selection of products that tell a story. For visitors and locals alike, these events foster a sense of belonging and appreciation for native talents.

Furthermore, shopping local can lead to a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture and its artistic expressions. As each purchase has the potential to support someone’s dream, attending these markets can feel particularly rewarding.

What this means for you

For those looking to engage with local culture, attending markets like Ho’omau can provide enriching experiences and unique finds. Additionally, if you ever need to review contracts, such as those for local events or partnerships, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate them into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2026/06/14/paradise-now-among-small-businesses-perpetuating-hawaii-art-culture/