The inaugural Wailuku Film Festival represented a major milestone for the Maui Film Office and the County of Maui, establishing a new annual event that brought together film, culture, education, community, and industry.  Held June 17–21, 2026, the inaugural Wailuku Film Festival welcomed more than 5,300 attendees across three Wailuku venues: the historic ʻĪao Theater, MAPA’s Naylor Theatre, and the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. More than 100 films were presented, including 55 films by Hawaiʻi filmmakers, 30 student productions, and works representing 15 countries and Indigenous nations.
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The festival advanced Maui County’s goals of strengthening the creative economy, supporting Hawaiʻi filmmakers, increasing cultural tourism, and elevating Native Hawaiian and Indigenous storytelling.
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Unlike traditional film festivals focused primarily on exhibition, the inaugural Wailuku Film Festival was designed as a broader creative industry platform connecting filmmakers, students, educators, cultural practitioners, audiences, and industry professionals through five distinct programming categories: Hawaiʻi, Indigenous Voices, Student, Animation, and Watersports.
Multiple screenings at the historic ʻĪao Theater sold out, demonstrating strong community interest and demand for film programming. The festival increased activity in Wailuku Town, supporting local businesses while activating the area as a cultural and creative destination.