SAVE OUR MARKETS - Princeville Farmers And Artists

Princeville Farmers and Artists Market

SIGN OUR PETITION
E KOKUA MAI - help save our farmers and artists markets!
Our farmers market is being challenged by certain individuals in the Princeville community, and we need YOUR help to protect this vital venue that brings local farmers, artists, residents, and visitors together each week!

By signing the updated Letter of Support of Bill 2951 encouraging others to do the same to ensure the market remains a thriving hub for local farmers and artisans. Together, we can work to preserve the heart of our community on Kaua'i.
It is important to clarify a misconception regarding this issue; it is not merely a "Princeville" situation. The initial complaint concerning the Princeville Farmers' & Artists' Market has raised broader concerns that may impact many cherished markets integral to our island's culture and community. Passing Bill 2591 will encompass all existing markets under one umbrella. This legislation is crucial for safeguarding these markets while also preventing oversaturation, considering community input, and protecting sacred Hawaiian and historical sites, as well as our state and county parks and beaches. A link to the complete text of Bill 2591 is available at the bottom of the form for your reference.
Additionally, you may reach out to our Councilmembers who can confirm how Bill 2591 will protect existing markets. Should this bill be rejected, many of these markets may face closure.
Fern Holland: fholland@kauai.gov
Arryl Kaneshiro: akaneshiro@kauai.gov

This Letter of Support focuses on these primary goals: Increasing awareness about the importance of existing farmers & artists markets island wide, which strongly supports local farming, arts, and crafts as well as supporting all existing farmers and artists markets.
Strengthening our local economy.
Promoting sustainability.
Further enriching the cultural life of Kaua'i.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR BILL 2951
MARKET UPDATE 03/10/2025
Our market hui has been collaborating with the county council and planning department to draft a bill that would legalize our market operations. On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, we have our final meeting with council members to determine whether the bill will advance to the mayor’s office for its final stage before being passed! STAY TUNED FOR MORE UPDATES!
MARKET UPDATE 01/07/2025
UPDATE: On 01/07/2025, we received official word that the Princeville Farmers Market will be shut down.

Our market hui is now working together to seek out options for our future. The most important thing we can ask for in this time is help with raising awareness of this issue as all 50 small business owners and farmers are being displaced. We believe in the power of our community and the strength that comes from standing together. By sharing our story, you’re helping us amplify the voices of hardworking small business owners and farmers who are at risk of losing not just their livelihoods, but also the heart of our local community.

Browse the SAVE OUR MARKET tab our website to learn more about our efforts, read personal testimonies of those impacted, and find ways you can get involved—whether by sharing, donating, or joining us in advocating for a fair and sustainable solution. Together, we can make a difference and show the world the importance of preserving small businesses and local agriculture.
Mahalo nui loa for your support.
What is Happening
Many members of the Princeville community proudly support our market, appreciating it as a vibrant gathering place to stock up on weekly supplies of fresh fruits and vegetables, support local businesses, and enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Residents from across the island visit weekly to shop local, while visitors browse local goods, finding unique souvenirs and gifts for loved ones back home.

Unfortunately, some individuals have raised concerns, claiming the market improperly uses the Princeville field, creates unnecessary traffic and parking issues, and takes away revenue from businesses in Hanalei town. These individuals have been extremely vocal and persistent in doing whatever it takes to completely shut down our weekly market.

They have attended Princeville board meetings to strongly voice their opinion and have built a force to rise up against our market.

As a result, our market was completely shut down the first week of January 2025 due to these ongoing and persistent complaints. If you’ve visited our market, love what it represents, or simply want to support local farmers, chefs, and vendors, we need your help. Please sign the updated Letter of Support of Bill 2591, leave a comment, and, most importantly, share this message with others. We believe the collective voice of our community can rise above the negativity we’re facing.

asThis market provides a vital space for more than 50 small businesses, families, and farmers to operate for just three hours each week. It has enabled many to thrive and pursue their dreams. Shutting it down has displaced many of the businesses, and some forced to close permanently. Our vendors have recently reported a loss of 25-80% of their income, even after finding a temporary home. Local markets like ours are essential to the community, fostering sustainability and supporting the island’s economy.

E KOKUA MAI — please help us raise awareness and give voice to the small business owners of Kauaʻi. Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to read this and for caring about our locals. ME KE ALOHA LOA.

SIGN THE PETITION
BROWSE LETTERS OF SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY

LETTERS OF SUPPORT - DROP BOX
Testimonials
All the amazing things the valued community members have to say about our market!
Our Change.org Petition