This past April 20 and 21, the 21st annual ‘Iolani Fair transported us across continents with the theme Global Getaway. The air was filled with laughter, music, and the smell of everything delicious. There were games for every age, rides that spun and swooped, craft tables, face painting, a general store, a silent auction, and performances that had everyone tapping along.
Dean of Lower School Gerald Teramae captured it best:
“Once again I am swept away by the One Team effort. I love the look of awe and delight on the Lower School faces and am impressed by the cooperation of students, parents and alumni. It really shows ‘Iolani at its best.”
A Feast for the Senses
Food booths were a journey in themselves. From Greek plates and veggie wraps to Cuban sandwiches, pasta Bolognese, sushi, and ochazuke, the flavors spanned the globe. Hawaiian plates, malasadas, shave ice, waffle hot dogs, red velvet cupcakes, and fresh crepes added local delight. The li hing malasadas quickly became the talk of the Fair—sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.
Art teacher Dave “Jungle Bob” Roberts put it perfectly:
“Working and coming to the ‘Iolani Fair is like biting into a Pā‘ina Dog: big, delicious, and spicy. You have not seen all of ‘Iolani until you have seen the Fair. It’s one of the happiest, tastiest things we do. And its impact on the school is huge!”
One Team, Many Hands
Nearly 35,000 visitors passed through the Fair, with 3,700 volunteers ensuring everything ran smoothly. From students to alumni, parents to teachers, everyone contributed—manning booths, baking, chopping, and performing countless tasks. It was a living example of the One Team spirit in action.
Fair coordinator Carissa Leonida, along with staffers Kevin Tomisato and Bonny Moniz, shared:
“Every year, volunteers generously give of their time and talent to put on this fun-filled two-day community event. It is through their selfless efforts that the Fair continues to be a successful annual event.”
Members of the Class of ’04 also pitched in, demonstrating the enduring legacy of alumni support: Andrew Inouye, Cori-Ann Hirai, Devan Kawakami Wong, Trisha Watanabe, Ian Nagata, Emily Moore, Tyler Street, Justin You, Jayson Quon, and Nate Akamu.
Memories That Last a Lifetime
Student Fair chairs Jaime Lee ’13, Jarret Lin ’13, Trey Takara ’13, Erin Masatsugu ’13, and Loxley Keala ’13 reflected on the meaning of the event:
“For the five of us, the Fair epitomizes ‘Ohana. Although the unforgettable journey of Global Getaway has come to a close, we will always cherish the lifelong friendships and lasting memories.”
Fair co-chairs James Lee ’74 and Cheryl Wong added:
“We are deeply appreciative and inspired by the dedication of all the volunteers, school personnel, and community participants who contributed to the unprecedented success of the Fair this year. Mahalo to all who shared in this exciting and memorable One Team experience!”
Next year’s Fair is already on the calendar: April 19 and 20. The tradition continues, promising another weekend of laughter, flavors, and memories.