Pacific Whale Foundation celebrates 45 years with World Whale Day week, Feb. 9–15

Pacific Whale Foundation will mark its 45th anniversary with a full week of community, cultural and conservation events on Maui from Feb. 9–15, 2026, including film screenings, volunteer stewardship days and a World Whale Day parade.

Pacific Whale Foundation will mark its 45th anniversary with a week of events on Maui from Feb. 9 to Feb. 15, 2026. The schedule coincides with the return of World Whale Day. The nonprofit was founded in 1980 by marine pioneer Greg Kaufman and focuses on protecting whales and the broader ocean through science, education and advocacy. The anniversary week will honor that history and bring together community, culture and conservation. Planned events: - Opening Ceremony (Feb. 9, Mākena Golf & Beach Club): a traditional Hawaiian blessing, opening remarks and a community gathering. - 9th Annual World Whale Film Festival (Feb. 11, ʻĪao Theater): short films on ocean conservation, Indigenous wisdom, climate change and stewardship. - Taste & Tunes (Feb. 12, OCEAN Organic Farm & Distillery): open-air food, craft drinks and live music featuring Tavana and the John Cruz Trio. - Big Blue Soirée (Feb. 13, Mākai Glass): the signature fundraising dinner marking 45 years of conservation and research. - Community Day – Mālama I Nā Koholā (Feb. 14, Māʻalaea Harbor Shops): family activities, marine science stations, keiki crafts and Hawaiian cultural programs. - Week activities: Mālama Pono service projects and coastal cleanups on Feb. 9, 10 and 12, plus VIP whale-watch sails and Sounds of the Ocean VIP sails on Feb. 10–11. Summary: The week highlights Pacific Whale Foundation's long history of combining science, cultural respect and place-based conservation. Organizers thanked the County of Maui Office of Economic Development, Southwest, OCEAN Organic Farm & Distillery, Pacific Media Group, The Montage at Kapalua Bay, Makai Glass, Maui Film Office and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Events run Feb. 9–15, 2026, and tickets and sponsorships are reported to be available through Pacific Whale Foundation's website.