The annual Girl Scout cookie sales kick off this weekend, marked by a significant shipment of cookies that arrived at the Kauai Veterans Center. The arrival coincided with February 19, recognized by the National Confectioners Association as National Chocolate Mint Day, a celebration particularly relevant for fans of the beloved Thin Mints cookie.
Marissa Dennis, the Island Manager for the Girl Scouts of Hawaii, confirmed the delivery of 33,642 cartons of cookies, representing an increase of 20 percent compared to the previous year’s shipment. “We have more cookies to sell and more troops to help sell,” Dennis said, highlighting that 18 troops across Kauai, especially in the Hanalei area, are participating in this year’s sales effort.
Volunteers played a crucial role in breaking down the large shipment to facilitate pick-up for the young cookie sellers after school. This year’s allocation will serve the island’s needs for 2026, and once the cookies sell out, fans must wait until next year to get their favorites back.
The Thin Mints cookie is particularly popular, comprising 27 percent of the total shipment. This cookie is so favored that even major brands, like Oreo, sell mint-flavored treats in February. “This is National Cookie Week on Kauai,” Dennis noted. “Our booth sales begin this weekend once the scouts deliver their pre-orders.”
Among the exciting offerings this year is a new flavor called Exploremores, inspired by rocky road ice cream, featuring chocolate, marshmallow, and toasted almond creme. The cookie lineup also includes well-loved classics such as Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-si-dos, and Trefoils.
To help customers locate their nearest cookie booth, the Girl Scouts of Hawaii provide a Cookie Finder tool. Booth sales in Lihue, starting Friday and continuing through the weekend, include locations at the Petco store in the Hokulei Shopping Village and the Safeway store, both open from 16:00 to 21:00. On Saturday, additional sales will occur at Ha Coffee along Rice Street from 09:00 to 12:00 and at Walmart throughout the weekend.
All proceeds from cookie sales remain in Hawaii, benefiting over 196 troops statewide. The funds raised allow Girl Scouts to participate in travel, camps, and service projects, while individual troops decide how to allocate their earnings. Additionally, the local council utilizes proceeds to enhance experiences for the Girl Scouts across the state.
As the cookie season unfolds, supporters are eager to get their hands on these sweet treats while contributing to a long-standing tradition that empowers young girls in their communities.
