Hawai‘i’s vibrant community of makers takes center stage this month as Mana Up celebrates the grand opening of its newest store at Royal Hawaiian Center from January 29 to February 1, 2026, open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
The new space—nestled on the ground floor behind Tiffany & Co.—brings together over 70 Hawai‘i-based brands and introduces Waikīkī’s only rum and chocolate pairing experience, created in partnership with Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum and Mānoa Chocolate. Visitors are invited to explore, taste, and connect with Hawai‘i’s thriving creative community through demos, tastings, and interactive events all weekend long.
A Celebration of Local Taste and Talent
Throughout the four-day celebration, guests can enjoy rotating activations, from exclusive tastings and live product demonstrations to giveaways and meet-the-maker moments.
Participating brands include beloved island favorites such as Daguzan Charcuterie, Hawaiian Soda Co, Island Harvest, Lotus and Lime, Mohala Eyewear, NOHO Home, ʻOhana Nui, Okonokai, Paper Crane Soaps, and Hawai'i 'Ulu Cooperative showcasing everything from food and drink to home décor, beauty and wellness products, fashion and more.
Also, courtesy of Haku Collective, enjoy live music by Artist to Watch winner Keahi (Keahi Delovio), who will perform with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra on February 27, for the HapaSymphony concert featuring the trio Keauhou, performing her original song "21st Century Kanaka" in a special arrangement for the event.
As part of the celebration, attendees can enter daily giveaways featuring prizes such as a Kō Hana distillery tour, a Mānoa Chocolate factory experience, and complimentary rum and chocolate pairing sessions at the new Waikīkī location.
Signature Experiences: Rum & Chocolate, Hawaiian Style
At the heart of the new store is Waikīkī’s first rum and chocolate pairing experience—a guided tasting that highlights locally grown ingredients and handcrafted excellence. Guests can sample agricole-style rum from Kō Hana alongside small-batch chocolate from Mānoa Chocolate, in pairings that celebrate Hawai‘i’s agricultural heritage.
Each session offers seasonal pairings and classic island-inspired cocktails such as the Mai Tai and Daiquiri, matched with artisan chocolates for a sensory journey unlike any other in Hawai‘i. Private group experiences are available by reservation via Kō Hana Rum’s booking page, and walk-ins are welcome throughout the weekend.
Artistry That Greets You at the Door
Anchoring the store’s design is a stunning glass lei installation by North Shore artist Arlie Pemberton of Arlie Glass. The permanent piece features 174 hand-formed glass puakenikeni flowers, radiating light and color while symbolizing aloha, connection, and place. The art wall stands as a visual centerpiece, welcoming visitors with a modern interpretation of a beloved Hawaiian tradition.
About Mana Up
Since launching its first accelerator cohort in 2018, Mana Up has nurtured over 100 Hawai‘i-based companies, providing resources and mentorship to help them grow globally while staying rooted in the islands. Both Kō Hana Rum and Mānoa Chocolate were part of Mana Up’s inaugural cohort—now reuniting for this first-of-its-kind retail and tasting partnership in Waikīkī.
Through initiatives like this new store, Mana Up continues to elevate Hawai‘i’s entrepreneurs, artisans, and innovators—sharing their stories and products with visitors from all around the world.
Discover and Support Hawai‘i’s Makers
The new Mana Up store at Royal Hawaiian Center invites locals and visitors alike to shop local, explore the diverse creativity of Hawai‘i’s makers, and experience the unique tastes and artistry of the islands—all in the heart of Waikīkī.
For more information, visit HouseofManaUp.com.
