Western Week rides into Honokaa Town Monday through May 30 to celebrate the paniolo heritage of Hamakua.
Western Week rides into Honokaa Town Monday through May 30 to celebrate the paniolo heritage of Hamakua.
From a Portuguese Bean Soup cook-off to Stick Horse championships, western movies and more, events lead up to the Paniolo Parade and Block Party on Mamane Street next Friday evening, followed by the 60th annual Hawaii Saddle Club Scholarship Rodeo.
Talent is also sought for the Saloon Girl and Cowboys Got Talent Contests. Men and women are invited to dress up and strut their stuff in a talent and personality competition on the street-side stage. There are no entry fees, winners receive cash prizes. Entry deadline is today. For information and applications, call Michelle Hartman, 775-9777.
Commemorative Honokaa Western Week buttons will be available to purchase as show of support, as well as automatic entry in the “lucky number” drawing during the Block Party. Although buttons are not required for admission, attendees receive fair warning that those without buttons at the Block Party risk being thrown into the hoosegow by roving sheriffs.
Honokaa Western Week is a volunteer-driven project supported by the Honokaa Business Association, The Hamakua Farm Bureau and the Hamakua Lion’s Club, and others.
Info: www.honokaawesternweek.org. ■