The public is cordially invited to the Hilo Orchid Show Gala Preview Party, a "fun"-raiser that kicks off the Annual Orchid Show and Sale in Hilo... and raises funds for peace and agriculture.

Held from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 25 at the Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium, the evening gala features hard and soft beverages, catered food, live music, and orchid viewing and pre-sales. The event is low impact, with recycling and eco-friendly eating utensils.

“Drink, eat, socialize, and get a sneak preview of the lush displays and the first chance to shop for beautiful, unique, and rare orchid plants,” said Ku‘ikahi Executive Director Julie Mitchell.

Each party-goer receives a souvenir wine or beer glass to enjoy the libations and take home after the event. A wide variety of fine wines, beers on tap from Kona Brewing Co. hard beverages from Ola Brew, gourmet fruit juices, and coffees from Hilo Coffee Mill are served. Pupu, dinner, and dessert buffets are compliments of White Guava Café and friends. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

Tickets are $100 (of which $40 is tax deductible) and may be purchased in advance from The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo (256 Kamehameha Ave.) and Ku'ikahi Mediation Center (101 Aupuni St., Suite PH 1014 B-2).

Reserved seating for 4, 6, 8, or 10 people is available at bronze, silver, gold, and platinum sponsorship levels.

To purchase tickets, tables, and sponsorships online, visit https://hawaiimediation.org/event/previewparty2024/. Tickets purchased online will be held at will call. Or contact Shelby (808) 935-7844 ext. 3 or shelby@hawaiimediation.org.

All ticket proceeds benefit the non-profit Ku'ikahi Mediation Center and the cause of "Finding Solutions, Growing Peace." All silent auction proceeds benefit Hilo Orchid Society’s agriculture student scholarship fund.

“We hope the community will come out to enjoy a great party while supporting a good cause at this ‘fun’-raiser,” said Mitchell. “Please join us as a partner for peace and a giver of hope. Your support changes lives.”