You can support local farmers and help develop a sustainable Hawaii by joining the third annual “Eat Local Challenge” sponsored by Kanu Hawaii. The challenge runs for a month this year instead of a week, and kicks off tomorrow (Wednesday, August 31) with an event at the Blaisdell Concert Hall Lawn from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Billed as “Ag in the City: Stepping Up to the Plate,” you’ll be able to enjoy dishes prepared by local chefs from the state’s own fresh farm products. This event is presented by the Mayor’s office and the Hawaii Farm Bureau and includes live music and a visit by Mayor Pater Carlisle.

Other events scheduled during the month:

• Saturday, Sept. 3, 9 a.m. – Ala Moana Farmers Market Grand Opening. The first 100 people who sign up for this year’s Eat Local challenge at this free event receive a free shopping bag.
• Thursday, Sept. 8, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Schools of the Future conference at the Sheraton Waikiki Resort, Hawaii Ballroom, open to educators, parents and students.
• Tuesday, Sept. 20, 6-8 p.m. – Forum “Making Local Food Affordable,” Kapiolani Community College.
• Friday, Sept. 30, details to come – Eat the Street – the food truck rally eats local!
• Whole Foods and Down to Earth will be holding cooking demos throughout the month.

For more information, Kanu’s website has an entire list of events on all islands.

Related: “Growth Potential,” an article on Kanu Hawaii’s formation. Originally appeared in our May 2008 issue.