Our Story

  • Dream it.

    The concept of a North Shore arts organization lingered in the minds of several local arts advocates and artists for many years. In 1997, a group of interested and dedicated individuals got together, discussed the topic, and decided to organize into a formal entity.

  • Build it.

    An application for Non-Profit Status was submitted in November 1998, with IRS determination approved in November 1999. Professional, amateur, student artists, and keiki (children) have participated in all Hale’iwa Arts Festival Events since our first annual summer event in 1998.

  • Grow it.

    For almost 25 years, program offerings have included visual and performing arts, chalk art events, children’s petroglyph art displays, and workshops in support of arts education programs in the North Shore community.

  • Today.

    The Hale'iwa Arts Festival is all about bringing art and culture to our community. We promote education and awareness, with a focus on getting everyone involved. We work closely with local artists and encourage everyone to join in. It's our way of making our community better through creativity and connection.

News & Awards

Chamber of Commerce Community Award & Certificate Of Recognition from the Hawaii State Legislature | 2008

The North Shore Chamber of Commerce, on December 4, 2008, bestowed their North Shore Kama'aina of the Year award to the Hale'iwa Arts Festival.

North Shore Area Schools’ Arts Programs | 2008

December 2008, the Hale'iwa Arts Festival made grants to nine area schools' arts programs in the total amount of $6,900.

The recipients included Hale'iwa Elementary, Ho'ala School in Wahiawa, Kahuku Elementary, Kahuku High and Intermediate, Saint Michael's School in Waialua, Sunset Beach Elementary, Sunset Beach Christian School, Waialua High and Intermediate, and Waialua Elementary were this year's recipients.