The 54th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is set to honor 88-year-old Ray Chickao Kunitake, a long-time coffee farmer and the Grand Marshal for the Lantern Parade. This event kicks off ten days of festivities dedicated to the rich coffee culture of the Big Island. Kunitake's family has been farming coffee since 1926, and he emphasizes the traditional methods still used today. The festival aims to celebrate the history and innovation of coffee farming in Kona, showcasing the stories of immigrant families like the Kunitakes who have shaped the industry.
• Ray Kunitake will lead the Lantern Parade, marking the festival's start.
• The Kunitake family has been a part of Kona's coffee legacy for nearly a century.
• The festival includes various events, such as coffee cupping competitions and cultural workshops.
• Proceeds from the festival support community programs and scholarships.
This festival is significant as it not only promotes Kona's coffee but also strengthens community ties and preserves the heritage of coffee farming. It highlights the hard work of past generations and fosters appreciation for the local culture.
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