LAHAINA Lahaina is an historic town that was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom. With its natural harbor it quickly became an important port and by the mid-1800s dozens of ships berthed at any one time. Whaling took hold, missionaries arrived, and soon a classic confrontation between the whalers and puritanical missionaries occurred. With passionate commitment the missionaries set about building Lahainaluna, the first high school west of the Rocky Mountains. They installed Hawaii‘s first printing press, developed the Hawaiian language in written form, and forced the Hawaiian women to change their way of dressing by introducing the mu'umu'u. Lahaina today reflects its colorful past with over 50 acres of the town set aside as historic districts containing sites designated as National Historical Landmarks. Walking maps marking the historic sites are readily available. Sites include Lahaina Prison, the Baldwin Mission House, Seamen's Hospital, and more. What has changed from the early days is the shopping. Gone are the ship's outfitters and drinking holes that once lined Front Street, replaced today by boutiques, gift shops and the ubiquitous art galleries. Every Friday night is "Art Night in Lahaina" when visitors and locals wander from gallery to gallery viewing art, meeting artists, listening to music, and sampling pupus. The harbor – once home to whaling ships – is now home to a fleet of pleasure boats ready to take visitors on sunset and dinner cruises, snorkel trips, and (in season) whale watching excursions. Often moored out in the channel is one of the regular cruise ships that now traverse the Hawaiian waters. The old Pioneer Inn still holds pride of place at harbor side. Here visitors can find nautical memorabilia, good lodging, food and drink. If you prefer more contemporary eating there are many outstanding restaurants along the stretch that is Front Street. Specializing in a blend of Hawaii and Asian regional cuisine, these eateries are often found in meticulously restored historic buildings. Rest in the shade of the giant banyan tree near the Pioneer Inn. Or take in ‘Ulalena' at the Maui Theater. This spectacular theatrical experience with music and dance depicts Hawaiian history with a modern twist. Lahaina is also host to many significant annual events including, the International Festival of Canoes, the Taste of Lahaina food festival, and more. But perhaps the best-known event in Lahaina is the Mardi Gras of the Pacific. It takes place every Halloween when the streets of Lahaina are filled with tens of thousands of costumed revelers. If you're on Maui for Halloween, this is a must activity. In the late afternoon there is a wonderful keiki (children's) parade. And, as night falls, the assorted ghouls, ghosts and aliens bring an adult flavor to the proceedings – all in good fun.