Summer Fair 2025 Showcases Sustainable Farming and Local Community Vibes
Mari’s Gardens, the highly regarded family owned farm in Mililani, will be celebrating its Summer Fair on July 19 with top regards to their vendors, offering 50 plus, children’s activities, produce grown just feet from where you pick it, and empowering exploration of agriculture as a whole through a \”learn, do, and grow\” vision that showcases community power, influence, and creativity.
Founded in 2008 by Fred Lau and managed by Mariko Lau (Fred’s daughter), Mari’s Gardens has come a long way from selling their homegrown plants and produce at local farmers’ markets on Oʻahu. Mari’s Gardens is the family’s namesake and product a reflection of sustainability in thought and practice through local and healthy food choices for residents of Oʻahu. Mari’s Gardens reflects this heritage family farm with modern day practices drawing information from this history to create new possibilities.
“We know first-hand how much heart, effort, and dedication it takes for small vendors to show up. This event is our way of giving back to the community and supporting local agriculture,” said Mariko Lau in an interview with Aloha State Daily.
The Summer Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, at 94-415 Makapipipi Street, Mililani. Attendees will enjoy a selection of activities that include:
- A multicultural farmers’ market
- Education booths / information
- Planting workshops
- Pony rides and petting zoos
- Face painting and balloon artist for the kids
The event is free, however they would like guest to RSVP at marisgardens.com so they can assist the organizers and vendors with planning. With limited parking available on-site and in nearby residential areas, attendees are also requested to be considerate of local neighbors.
This year’s fair takes on a deeper purpose, according to Lau. “We’re leaning into our agricultural roots more than ever. From showcasing local produce to interactive farm-themed activities, our goal is to foster a stronger connection between the land and the people.”
The fair is collaborating with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, to provide educational booth about sustainable farming practices to inspire guests and especially kids to think about living more environmentally friendly and growing their own food.
The Future: Mari’s Gardens’ Vision for Expansion
As Mari’s Gardens continues to grow, Lau stresses the necessity of staying true to community values. “In 2025, we anticipate adding workshops, more exploratory educational events in collaboration with other organizations, and making our farm space a more available and profound experience for everyone of every age,” Lau shares.
From establishing new farm-to-table initiatives, to improving the website, to expanding the nursery, the team aims to build a farm source of learning, sustainability and wellness.
“We want Mari’s Gardens to be a place where people come to reconnect with nature, learn where their food comes from, and leave feeling inspired,” said Lau.
Overcoming Challenges in Farming
Running a small-scale farm in Hawaiʻi has its challenges. Rising costs, unreliable weather, limited resources…these are all constant challenges. Lau is hopeful. “We respond to each challenge with resilience. Growth takes time, and we are doing it sustainably and with an intention.”
Advice for New Family Agribusinesses
For new agricultural or farm-to-market businesses, Lau said:
“Start small and stick to your goals. It won’t always be easy, but if you are dedicated to your mission and have a strong support network you will be be fine! Community and consistency are everything!”
The Mari’s Gardens Summer Fair is more than an event – it is a real-time showcase demonstrating how local agriculture, family enterprise, and community can work in symbiosis. For India’s growing community of agri-startups and farm collectives, this is a model to keep an eye on.
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