Community on Tap: Taste of Hawaii

Community on Tap: Taste of Hawaii

There are some events that remind you exactly why you do what you do. This year’s Taste of Hawaii was one of them.

Hosted by the Kurt Suzuki Family Foundation and co-led by our own VP of Operations, Isaac Bancaco, the evening brought together chefs, brewers, farmers, and community members from across Maui for a single purpose: supporting local families and keiki through meaningful philanthropy.  Proceeds from the event directly benefit youth programs such as the PONO Boys Baseball Club and local initiatives that strengthen families and rebuild communities in need.

We were honored to be part of it.

Showing up for community

Community has always been at the heart of everything we do at Lahaina Brewing Company. Whether it’s supporting local causes, partnering with fellow businesses, or simply creating a welcoming place to gather, we believe beer is just the starting point — connection is the goal.

Taste of Hawaii embodied that spirit perfectly. The event wasn’t just about incredible food and drinks (though there was plenty of that). It was about neighbors showing up for neighbors, and the collective impact that happens when local people care for their community together.

Working alongside Kurt Suzuki and the foundation team was a powerful reminder that meaningful change often starts with people who simply decide to give back.

Part of the larger table

One of the best parts of the night was seeing so many people come together to share what they love doing — cooking, brewing, hosting, and simply showing up for one another.

We were there alongside talented chefs, farmers, and makers– pouring beer, serving food, and being part of the flow of the evening. Our kitchen leaned into local ingredients to give classic comfort foods a little extra kick, with flavors designed to naturally pair with the beers we were pouring.

Guests moved from station to station, trying a little of everything, connecting with the people behind it, and soaking in the energy that happens when a community gathers with purpose.

It felt less like individual booths and more like one big table — everyone contributing in their own way, all in support of something that truly matters.

Grateful to be included

We’re incredibly proud of Isaac for helping bring this year’s event to life, and deeply grateful to the organizers, volunteers, and fellow participants who made the night possible.

Most of all, we’re thankful to the community that continues to show up — for each other and for causes that matter.

Being included in Taste of Hawaii wasn’t just an opportunity to share beer and food. It was a chance to stand alongside people who believe in the same thing we do: that when a community comes together with intention and heart, real impact follows.

We’re already looking forward to the next one. 🍻