Kaua‘i Made Holiday Fair to Boost Local Small Businesses

The County of Kaua‘i Office of Economic Development announced on November 20 that the Kaua‘i Made program will host a Holly Jolly Holiday Fair on Saturday, December 6, at the Grand Hyatt Resort and Spa in Poʻipū. The fair will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and bring together more than 30 Kaua‘i Made vendors offering locally made gifts, crafts, foods and seasonal items, accompanied by live entertainment.

Organizers framed the event as a way to support small, local makers and encourage holiday shopping that benefits Kaua‘i businesses. For many vendors, seasonal markets are a critical revenue source as they balance rising costs and limited access to larger retail networks. The county press release presenting the fair emphasized the economic benefit to local creators and pointed visitors to kauaimade.net for vendor and program information. Contact information for the Kaua‘i Made coordinator was provided in the release, and accessibility accommodations were noted as available upon request.

The fair is likely to draw residents and visitors from across the island, offering a centralized opportunity to purchase goods that keep more money circulating in the local economy. For community members who rely on income from artisan sales, food service and event staffing, markets like this can mean meaningful seasonal support. Increased patronage of small enterprises also supports broader community resilience by sustaining family livelihoods and preserving culturally informed crafts and foods.

From a public health perspective, any gathering that draws crowds requires attention to preventive measures to protect vulnerable community members, workers and older residents. Attendees and organizers should consider standard respiratory illness precautions, and those with health concerns should take personal protective steps appropriate to their circumstances. The county noted accessibility accommodations are available, underscoring attention to inclusive participation.

The event aligns with county efforts to promote locally made products and strengthen small business ecosystems. By spotlighting Kaua‘i makers in a high visibility venue, the fair aims to create market access and build customer relationships that can extend beyond the holiday season. Residents seeking vendor details or assistance with accessibility requests can find more information on kauaimade.net or contact the Kaua‘i Made coordinator as listed in the county release.

As holiday shopping ramps up, the fair represents a practical way for residents to direct spending toward neighbors and local entrepreneurs, supporting economic equity and sustaining the creative fabric of Kaua‘i communities.