The Discover Moiliili Festival started 12 years ago to highlight the history of the diverse urban neighborhood.

On Saturday, when thousands are expected to fill Old Stadium Park for another annual day of food, crafts and free entertainment, organizers will be asking residents about the future of Mo'ili'ili, too.

"Our neighborhood is confronting a very interesting situation. The near future will bring the possibility of mass transit. At the University of Hawai'i, there is much talk about expanding into Mo'ili'ili," said Grant Kagimoto, president of the Moiliili Community Center board, which puts on the festival. "The community continues to evolve."

Discover Moiliili runs from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and will feature a free trolley tour of the neighborhood, a farmers market, craft fair and food.

Several businesses and nonprofits will also be represented, and at some of those booths, attendees will be asked to share their thoughts about how they want Mo'ili'ili to move into the future, and about preserving its old-fashioned feel.

Rebecca Ryan, executive director of the Moiliili Community Center, said renewed interest in the history of the neighborhood has meant more people are adamant about preserving what's left of old Mo'ili'ili.

They especially fear the loss of small businesses.

This year, the community lost the landmark Varsity theater along with some newer, but well-liked, establishments. Some say Mo'ili'ili is in danger of becoming gentrified, which would also mean less affordable housing.

"There's a lot of middle- and low-income people in our community," Kagimoto said. "We want to make sure as the community grows it doesn't squeeze these people out."

The responses from residents about the future of the community will be informally collected, and could be used to help steer organizations talking about changes in Mo'ili'ili.

The festival attracts between 3,000 and 5,000 people annually. Organizers say they expect a big crowd this year because of special free events for kids, plus diverse entertainment, including belly dancing and harmonica players.

In addition to attracting residents, Discover Moiliili also brings more and more tourists annually, Ryan said. For the past several years, organizers have offered free trolley rides from two points in Waikiki to Old Stadium Park.

Ryan said the event gives tourists a feel for the real O'ahu — and its people — in one of the island's oldest communities.

Reach Mary Vorsino at mvorsino@honoluluadvertiser.com.