Crowds streamed through Leeward Community College’s Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center (WVAPDC) on November 15, as Taste the Town Wahiawā transformed the facility into a bustling hub of local food, culture and community.
It was a welcome sign of support for value-added food innovation and locally sourced products.
“Everyone really wants to support local and see small brands succeed,” said Berklee Welsh, owner of coconut peanut butter brand Shaka Butter and a regular user of the WVAPDC kitchens. “Meeting customers at farmers’ markets, sharing my product with neighbors, and being part of Taste the Town; those are the moments that remind me of how much support I have behind me.”
The event was presented in partnership with the City and County of Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) and Wahiawā Fresh.
It featured an expanded version of the center’s monthly market, with more than 40 vendors offering a range of products from baked goods and pickled vegetables to locally brewed ginger beverages and specialty spreads—many of which were developed using the WVAPDC’s commercial kitchen and processing facilities.
Strengthening the community
“Our monthly market has always focused on uplifting local food producers by creating new sales opportunities and greater exposure—ultimately building a more resilient food economy,” said Chris Bailey, manager of the WVAPDC. “We’re honored to work with OER and Wahiawā Fresh to expand that vision through Taste the Town.”
Performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band, Ryugen Taiko, school groups and local musicians kept the crowds engaged. Another major draw was the cooking demonstrations by culinary innovators such as Chef Alan Wong, a Wahiawā native, whose return to his hometown brought out former classmates and family members.
Free docent-led trolley rides also introduced visitors to Wahiawā’s historic neighborhoods and nearby small businesses.
“Taste the Town was a blend of nostalgic and new, shining a light on Wahiawā’s unique history, food culture, and the innovative products emerging from our community,” said Wahiawā Fresh President Darin Uesugi.
OER Executive Director Amy Asselbaye added, “When we gather to support local producers and enjoy entertainment in the heart of Wahiawā, we are strengthening the social and economic fabric of our community.”
Taste the Town Wahiawā was sponsored by Hawaiian Electric, Beall Corporation, and Yaris Ohana, and supported by the Office of Councilmember Matt Weyer, Office of Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Oʻahu Visitors Bureau, Wahiawā Town Center, Wahiawā Hongwanji Mission and Wahiawā Lions Club.
