Big Island Calendar of Events

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February

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

February 1-5, 2011
DAVID NELSON BAND HAWAII TOUR - PAHOA, HAWI, KEALAKEKUA
They're BACK!..David Nelson, founding member of New Riders of the Purple Sage and longtime musical partner of Jerry Garcia, returns with his band for three Nelson Ohana gatherings on the Big Island. Acclaimed band members Pete Sears, Mookie Siegel, Barry Sless & special guest Grateful Dead drummer Billy Kreutzmann. Akebono Theatre, Pahoa, 2/3 @ 7pm; Kohala Trade Center, Hawi , 2/4, Gates Open 2:30pm; Kona Historical Society, 2/5, Gates Open 2pm, Show pm, Festival Seating. Tickets available at Conscious Riddims, Soundwave in Kailua-Kona, CD Wizard in Hilo. For information call 707-841-7665, email talkingfox@pacific.net or visit www.nelsonband.com

February 3, 2012
"STARTING AN ORGANIC GARDEN - YES YOU CAN!" - KUAIWI FARM, CAPTAIN COOK
Master Gardener Una Greenaway will open her farm for a hands-on learn-by-doing day where a new garden plot will be started. Soil, plant, and growing practices for a successful food garden will be demonstrated, step-by-step. 9am-3pm, bring your own lunch and wear protective, sturdy garden clothing. Proceeds will fund scholarships for youth programs at the One Island Sustainable Living Center and its new Same Canoe Community Gardens Project. RSVP for directions. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-2452, email info@one-island.org or visit www.one-island.org/hawaii

February 3, 2012
ASIAN FEST - QUEENS' MARKETPLACE, WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Welcome the Year of the Dragon at the new "Asian Fest" at Queens' MarketPlace in Waikoloa Beach Resort, from 4:30-6:30pm at Queens' MarketPlace Coronation Pavilion. Celebrate with the vibrant Lion Dancers and driving rhythms of drums from around the world. Make sure you have your "laisee" ready to feed the Lion and ensure good health and fortune in 2012. More than Chinese New Year, Asian Fest features the fun and fascinating Far East traditions that came to Hawai'i and still inspire residents and visitors from everywhere. Free food samples from Queens' MarketPlace restaurants! Emcee Eddie O will be on hand to entertain and inform you about Hawaii's diverse cultures. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-886-8822, email spelfrey@waikoloaland.com or visit www.queensmarketplace.net

February 3, 2012
"HAU'OLI LA HANAU BRUDDAH SMITTY" BENEFIT - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA
To help defer Smitty's medical expenses. Featuring Darlene Ahuna, Nino Ka'ai, Keoki Kahumoku, Eddie Kamae & Mark Yamanaka. At 6:30pm. Tickets $100, $45, $35. Call 885-6868 for more info.

February 4, 2012
ANNUAL WAIMEA CHERRY BLOSSOM HERITAGE FESTIVAL - WAIMEA
This year, the Festival marks its annual celebration with the planting of cherry tree seedlings gifted from the Embassy of Japan. The two varieties of seedlings to be planted in Hawai'i were specially chosen for Waimea's clime by Dr. Tetsuo Koyama, a Honolulu-based botanist formerly of The New York Botanical Garden. the festival showcases the 60 year old cherry trees planted at Church Row Park and the Japanese tradition of viewing themÑhanami. This year the event remembers three Paniolo Hall of Fame members who each offered different skills to the islandÕs ranching industry: Jamie Dowsett and Charles T. Kimura of Waimea, and Charles T. Onaka of Honaunau. The festival includes a variety of activities from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at venues throughout Waimea - look for pink banners identifying site locations from the Parker Ranch Historic Homes on Mamalahoa Hwy. 190 to the Hawaiian Homestead FarmerÕs Market on Hwy. 19. Enjoy an all day lineup of Japanese and multi-cultural performing arts, plus hands-on demonstrations of bonsai, origami, traditional tea ceremony, and mochi pounding. There will be a host of colorful craft fairs, as well. This year, there will also be a Festival of Quilts display, featuring the handiwork of all six local quilt clubs. Enjoy free shuttle transportation among most venues. For more info, please call 808-961-8706.

February 7, 2012
RAW FOOD RECIPE EXCHANGE, POTLUCK & FILM - HONAUNAU
Locally grown food and delicious raw foods offer a way to get more of those healthy ingredients into our system. Come share in a raw food potluck and discover some new recipes that help you build raw menu options into your monthly food choices. There will also be a short video about a group of people who went on a retreat to beat diabetes using a raw food diet. Time: 5:30-8pm at One Island Sustainable Living Center, Honaunau. Free to the public; bring a dish to share. For information call 808/328-2452 or email info@one-island.org

February 9, 2012
POETRY SLAM AND POTLUCK - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Spoken Word Poet, Sharon Marie Olson, will host a poetry slam night at the Mill. Potluck from 6-- 7pm; Slam begins promptly at 7pm! Poets are to bring two written or memorized poems of their own composition. Each participant will be called on to perform their piece randomly. Poets will be judged on overall performance. Admission is free....just bring poems and pupus to share! Program will go till 9pm. For more information, call 808-322-3362, email donkeymill@gmail.com or visit http://www.donkeymillartcenter.org/events.php

February 11, 2012
BUTTERFLY AND HONEY BEE BUZZ BREAKFAST - HONAUNAU
Discover the six colorful butterflies naturalized in lower Kona and get to know your important pollinators, Kona's honey bees. Breakfast has pancake options (wheat and gluten free) with scrambled eggs or tofu served with Kona coffee from local farms - both cold and hot brew - or tea. $15 donation. Fundraiser for Summer Youth Programs. Time: 8am-noon at One Island Sustainable Living Center, Painted Church Rd. For more information, call 808-328-2452 or email info@one-island.org

February 11, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its book sale from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Funds from sales help support the needs of Kona libraries, with funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. For more information, call 328-1666 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

February 11, 2012
ROTARY CLUB OF KONA MAUKA'S VALENTINE WINE TASTING
Join the Rotary Club of Kona Mauka for a wonderful evening at its upcoming "Valentine Wine Tasting" fundraiser on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 4 to 8 pm. It will take place at a beautiful private residence in Kailua-Kona. The event will feature fine wines, delicious food, live music and a silent auction. Time: 4-8pm. Tickets are $65 per person. Proceeds will go towards scholarships for local students and other projects. Sponsorships are welcome. For tickets and more information, contact Sandee Crisp at 808-987-0184 or email her at sandee-crisp@hawaii.rr.com.

February 11, 2012
10th ANNUAL HILO CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL
The 10th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival celebrates the Year of the Dragon, roaring into downtown Hilo with Lion Dancers parading through town beginning at 9 a.m. The lions open the free Festival at 10 a.m. at Kalakaua Park, which will be filled with arts, crafts, Hawaiian and Asian gifts, international food booths, and cultural information. Performances, calligraphy, I Ching and martial arts demonstrations, along with a free food tasting and free kids activities, will turn the park into a mini-Chinatown for the day. For more information, call 935-8850, email georgiadia@gmail.com or visit www.downtownhilo.com

February 11, 2012
MAKAHA SONS VALENTINE'S DAY CONCERT - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Tickets $25 advance/$30 door; on sale at Box Office 10am-3pm weekdays, or by calling 934-7010.

February 11, 2012
8th ANNUAL "LOVE THE ARTS" FUNDRAISER - VOLCANO
This year's theme: "Carnivale di Venezia: Under a Hawaiian Moon". To be held at Volcano Art CenterÕs Niaulani Campus, 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd. in Volcano Village. Cost: $50/$60 door. VAC's annual gala and fundraising event includes tables of delectable catered foods, wine and champagne, live and silent auctions and special surprises all evening long. Enter the mask contest, bid on local artists' donated work or on the numerous offerings from businesses around the state, tickle your palate with gourmet goodies and party down for a good fun cause, perpetuating arts & culture on Hawai'i, the Big Island. To reserve tickets, call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

February 12, 2012
'Q'UISINE OF HEARTS BRUNCH BENEFIT - HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
Celebrate Valentine's Day with your special someone at the 17th annual 'Q'uisine of Hearts, a lovely brunch that annually benefits 2000 Kona-Kohala keiki through American Culinary Federation (ACF) Chef and Child nutrition awareness programs. Time is 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. While innovative and mouth-watering desserts are definitely the draw at ÔQÕuisine, the culinary repast whets the sweet tooth with a sprawling bruschetta buffet stocked with breads, meats, cheeses and carefully crafted condiments arranged by West Hawaii community college culinary students. Also on tap are omelet and eggs benedict stations, wine, champagne and ales, plus piping hot coffee and tropical teas. Serenading the scrumptious '"eats" will be romantic piano music by Loren Wilken, including some of your favorite love songs. During the silent auction, bid for "sweetheart" floral arrangements and private catered dinners by top Big Isle chefs. Tickets, priced at $45 for adults and $20 for children aged 5-10 are for sale at Gourmet ChefÕs Supply, Kailua Candy Company and Kona Wine Market in Kona or at Tropical Dreams Ice Cream in Waimea. Charge by phone at 808-329-2522. For more information, contact 808-333-5442.

February 17, 2012
'UKULELE AND SLACK KEY GUITAR INSTITUTE MASTERS CONCERT - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA 8pm. Part of the annual `Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Institute, this culminating concert will feature Mike Ka'awa, Jeff Peterson, Nathan Aweau and more. Call 885-6868 for tickets or information. For a list of Institute free events, see Konaweb's Hawaiian Music Events page.

February 17 & 18, 2012
INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS - UNIV. OF HILO
This annual show features performances from around the world and is a favorite event among students, the community, and visitors. Among the many cultures to be represented are Hawai'i, Samoa, the Philippines, Micronesia, Korea, New Zealand, Palau, Ireland, and the USA. Friday evening's show will feature a special performance by a visiting group from Indonesia. The group will perform excerpts from a Randai play featuring dance, music, songs and martial arts. Tickets may be purchased with cash or checks at the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center Box Office from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Tuesday through Friday, or at the door. Credit or debit card orders by phone or at the Box Office are not available. Advance purchase is recommended. Time: 7:30 PM at University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center, Hilo. Cost: $10 General Admission, $5 students, children & seniors. For information call: 808-974-7313 or email mellon@hawaii.edu

February 17-19, 2012
TAHITIAN DANCE COMPETITION AND MAHALO FUN DAY & CONCERT
Te 'E'a O Te Turama and Fun to Jump Kona present Heiva i Hawai'i Tahitian Dance Competition and Mahalo Fun Day & Concert, featuring Mr & Miss Heiva i Hawai'i contest, drumming, 'aparima, 'ote'a & 'ahuroa workshops, crafts, vendors, inflatables, and free concert. Time: Friday 6-9pm, Sat 9am-8pm, Sun 9am-8pm at Kekuaokalani Gym in Kailua-Kona, and Shops at Mauna Lani. Cost varies. For information call: 808-450-9664 or email teeaoteturama@gmail.com or visit https://sites.google.com/site/teeaoteturama/competition

February 18, 2012
6th ANNUAL HAWAI'I AVOCADO FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
This free to the public, zero waste event will be held from 10 am to 4 pm at Keauhou Beach Resort. Fun and informative festivities will include demonstrations on avocado grafting and growing, an avocado recipe contest, free guacamole sampling, farmer's market, arts and crafts, healing arts, eco fashion show, and a full lineup of performing arts. Original festival art and t-shirts will be on display and for sale. The 2012 Hawai'i Avocado Festival is sponsored by Sanctuary of Mana Ke'a Gardens, Hawai'i Tropical Fruit Growers-West Hawai'i, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Keauhou Beach Resort, Hawai'i Health Guide, Farm to Fork, recyclehawaii.org, Divine Goods and Island Naturals. For more information, contact Randyl Rupar at 334-3340 or visit www.avocadofestival.org

February 18, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring Halau Na Pua Ha`aheo O Kona with kumu hula Roy Palacat, from 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

February 18, 2012
LAUPAHOEHOE MUSIC FESTIVAL
A fun all day event featuring some of the best of Hawaii's live music and hula. This family friendly fundraiser provides college scholarships for area students and supports community projects. Held at beautiful Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park each February, this year's lineup includes Mark Yamanaka, Times 5, Lorna Lim and Polinahe with Sonny Lim, Darlene Ahuna, Kanakapila, Kunoa, the Laupahoehoe High School 'Ukulele Band and the Honoka'a High School Jazz Band. Hula by Halau O Mailelaulani and Halau O Ke Anuenue. Festival food vendors will offer a wide variety of tastes and vegetarian grinds. Local crafts for sale too! This is a drug and alcohol free event. No coolers please. Time: 9am to 4 pm. Presale tickets $10; Gate tickets $15; age 10 and under free. Tickets on sale at 50's Highway Fountain, Laupahoehoe; Sakado Store, Laupahoehoe; Hilo Guitars and 'Ukulele, Hilo; Taro Patch, Honoka'a; Mr. Ed's Bakery, Honomu; Music Exchange, Hilo; Music Exchange, Waimea; Music Exchange, Kona. For more information, call 962-6350, email bunzeyj001@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.laupahoehoemusicfestival.com

February 18, 2012
ISLAND FEVER CLASSIC CAR SHOW - WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
Waikoloa Lions Club sponsoring Car show in Waikoloa Village. Time: 11:00 to 3pm at Waikoloa Village School, Paniolo Rd. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-883-1501 or email donraye@prodigy.net

February 18 & 19, 2012
QUILT & FIBER ARTS SHOW - SKEA, HONAUNAU
"Fire and Ice", a quilt and fiber arts show, features the work of Big Island artists and craftspeople. If you wish to enter your work, contact Catherine at cmwynne@hawaii.rr.com by January 15, 2012. Time: 9:00-5:00 Saturday 9:00-3:00 Sunday at SKEA (Society for Kona's Education & Art), in Honaunau, between mm 105-106. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-9392, email skea@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.skea.org

February 19, 2012
PORTUGUESE DAY IN THE PARK - HILO
The public is invited to this celebration of all things Portuguese! Chamber members will be making Portuguese bean soup and baking bread in the "fourno", then distributing it free to everyone. Live music, sweet bread, pickled onions, sausage, and malasadas will be available for sale. There will be a booth to look up ancestry and history of the Portuguese in Hawaii. Fun for the whole family. Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gilbert Carvalho Park, Hilo. For more information, call 808-935-0547 or email puuhina@hawaiiantel.net

February 19, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

February 21, 2012
KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona. "What the Dog Saw", by Malcolm Gladwell, will be discussed. Light refreshments will be served. New members are welcome. Time: 11 AM to 1 PM on the Kailua-Kona Library Lanai. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

February 23 (field trip) & 24 (Symposium), 2012
2012 NAHELEHELE DRY FOREST SYMPOSIUM
The 2012 Nahelehele Dry Forest Symposium will highlight dryland forest ecology and restoration efforts in Hawai'i, emphasizing "connections" in Hawaiian dry forests - between the past and the present, people and the forest, uplands and lowlands, and between the forest and the animals that inhabit them. An optional field trip on the geology, botany and culture of Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park will precede the symposium from 9:20 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 23. This field trip will include an overview of the geology of Hualalai and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and a hike to the coast to view a variety of lowland indigenous and endemic Hawaiian plants. The hike passes through a native plant restoration project conducted from 2000-2007, a petroglyph field, and over different aged lava fields. Trip leaders Jill Wagner and Mark Solien will explore what this coastal forest looked like thousands of years ago based on pollen samples from a sediment core dating to the time before human habitation. The trip will end with a sack lunch on the beach. Register for the field trip and Symposium by downloading the registration form at http://www.kohalacenter.org/pdf/naheleregistration.pdf and emailing it to Cortney Hoffman at choffman@kohalacenter.org, faxing it to 808-885-6707, or by calling Cortney at 808-443-2757. For more information, call 808-443-2757 or visit www.drylandforest.org/events

February 25, 2012
GROW HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL - AMY B.H. GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN
Weavers, hula dancers, kapa makers, storytellers and other practitioners of traditional Hawaiian culture will meet with biologists, conservationists, and horticulturists to explore their common passion for the native and Polynesian-introduced plants of Hawaii. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to meet, talk, and learn with some of the foremost practioners of Hawaiian arts, with many opportunities for making cultural items to take home with them. This free event will take place at the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook, 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona on Hwy 11, just south of mile marker 110, from 9am to 2:30pm. Activities will be available for young and old, and plate lunches will be for sale. There will be an informal lei contest (everyone is encouraged to enter - call for category details). Volunteers needed. For more info, please call 323-3318 or email agg@bishopmuseum.org

February 25, 2012
ARTS & FINE CRAFTS FAIR - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
High quality, locally made arts & fine crafts by some of the Big Island's most talented artisans. Traditional to contemporary works in wood, quilting, painting, jewelry design, ceramic, glass & more! Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa's Convention Center, Kona. Free to the public. For more information, call 326-4152

February 25, 2012
15th ANNUAL HAWAII HEART WALK & HEALTH FAIR - EAST HI. DIVISION
A great cause to reduce heart disease and stroke and educate the public about exercising healthy habits. Sign up at hiloheartwalk.org. Call the American Heart Assn. at (808) 961-2825 for more info.

February 25, 2012
SWING INTO SPRING DINNER GALA - KAILUA-KONA
Annual fundraiser featuring a sumptuous dinner buffet, live cabaret, silent & live auctions, and dancing in the newly renovated ballroom of the King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. This is a much anticipated, one-of-a-kind event that is historically a sellout, in support of the Kona Festivale Chorale. Time: 5:30-9:30pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. Price TBA. For more information, call 331-1115, email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

March

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

March 3, 2012
GREAT WAIKOLOA 'UKULELE FESTIVAL - QUEENS' MARKETPLACE, WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Time: 2 to 6 p.m. Music performances by popular 'ukulele masters and groups. Admission: Free. Visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com for more info.

March 3, 2012
SPRING HEALTH FAIR & CELEBRATION - NANILOA HOTEL, HILO
The theme of Hawaii College of Oriental Medicine (formerly TCMCH)'s Spring Health Fair & Celebration is "Healthy Aging". Free admission to the Health Fair. There will be health education classes for the public, continuing education for LAc/ND/DC and LMTs, authentic Asian music, local businesses offering services, free services including; qigung, Chinese & Japanese acupuncture, tuina sessions, acupuncture facelifts, and free gifts. Tickets for the Celebration Party are $50, and include a sake Intro & tasting, keynote speaker presentations, alumni awards, pupus, music, and lots of fun! Fair: Noon to 4.30pm; Celebration: 5-7:30pm. Tickets for the Celebration are available online at www.tcmch.edu. For more information, call 981-2790 or email ce@tcmch.edu

March 9, 2012
KONA BREWERS FEST GOLF OPEN BENEFIT - BIG ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB
The annual Kona Brewers Fest Golf Open tees off with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. at Big Island Country Club. Golfers of all levels are welcome to play at this four-person scramble using the Peoria scoring system, a popular format for one-day friendly tournaments because it evens the competition. The event benefits Hawaii Montessori School at Kona. Ticket price includes 18 holes of golf, greens fees and cart, welcome bag, continental breakfast, box lunch and awards ceremony with pupus. golf cart, welcome bag, continental breakfast, box lunch and awards ceremony with pupus. Preregister by downloading a registration form from the festival website, www.KonaBrewersFestival.com. Event will benefit http://www.hawaiimontessori.org/

March 9, 2012
"ALOHA FRIDAY" BOAT DAY FUNDRAISER - HILO
Experience the nostalgia and aloha of Hawai'i's old-time boat days, replete with colorful flower lei, graceful hula 'auana, and lively Hawaiian music. The public is invited to attend the Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park's "Aloha Friday" Boat Day Fundraiser on board Holland America Line's m.s. Rotterdam, which docks in the Hilo Harbor.The benefit luncheon will take place in the ship's elegant La Fontaine Dining Room. The m.s. Rotterdam's decor of fine woods and priceless antiques and art collections reflects the theme of Dutch seafaring exploration, and attendees will have an opportunity - either before or after the luncheon - to take a self-guided tour of the ship. Served with wine, the benefit luncheon will feature a delicious four-course meal of appetizer, soup or salad, choice of lunch entree, and dessert. Vegetarian options will be available. Entertainment features the Kuahiwis, who for over ten years have been perpetuating the spirit and sound of Hawaiian music. Dancers from kumu hula Ab Valencia's Halau Hula Kalehuaki'eki'eika'iu will present hula 'auana. Fundraiser tickets are $65 and benefit the non-profit Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Group rates are available for tables of 5 or more. For tickets, please call 985-7373 or visit www.fhvnp.org. Due to TSA security regulations, tickets are not transferable, photo identification is required to board the ship, and RSVPs must be made by March 5th.

March 10, 2012
17th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL - KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL LU'AU GROUNDS
The annual Kona Brewers Festival indulges craft beer aficionados on Hawaii's Big Island, tapping up 70 types of ales and lagers served alongside a cornucopia of island-style cuisine from 30 Hawaii chefs. The sell-out event features craft beer, gourmet food, live music and entertainment. Time: 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Cost: $60 and includes a commemorative event mug, eight four-ounce brew tasting coupons, unlimited samplings of gourmet cuisine and an afternoon of entertainment. For more information, call 334-1133, email info@konabrewersfestival.com or visit www.konabrewersfestival.com

March 10, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale on from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Take advantage of great prices while supporting your public libraries. Funds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are desperately needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

March 10, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring Halau O Po'ohala with kumu hula Hulali Covington, 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

March TBA, 2012
ANNUAL LIONS CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFAST - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
Pancakes, sausages and beverages will be served from 6:30-11am. Live entertainment will accompany the breakfast. Proceeds of this fundraiser will help support the Lions Club's preschool vision testing program, scholarships, and other community projects. Used eyeglasses will be collected on benefit day for distribution to developing countries. Ticket price $8. Tickets available from Lions Club members and at the door. Children under 6 eat free.

March TBA, 2012
MONTHLY BOOK CLUB MEETING - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY, KAILUA-KONA
Light refreshments will be served. New members are welcome. Cost: Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

March TBA, 2012
SPRING ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL - KONA INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE
Celebrate Spring with local musicians, ono food, the offerings of many local artists and market merchants. Door prizes and other surprises! Interested vendors can contact The Blue Sea Artisans @ 329-8000. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Kona International Market, Kailua-Kona. For more information, call 329-6262 or email sandi@luhia.com or visit www.konainternationalmarket.com

March 17, 2012
12th ANNUAL FREE CONCERT CELEBRATING THE BIRTHDAY OF KAMEHAMEHA III - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT, KONA
A fun, outdoor concert featuring wonderful Hawaiian music and hula, from 5-10pm on the lawn of the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort. Free concert trolley between Keauhou Beach Resort, Keauhou Shopping Center, and Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort between 4:30 and 10:30pm. Mats and beach chairs welcome. No coolers, please.

March 17, 2012
26th ANNUAL MAGIC SPECTACULAR - ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
To benefit Society for Kona's Education and Art in Honaunau (SKEA). Big Island Magic Club books a "headliner superstar" in addition to talented local magicians. There will be two shows at the Aloha Theatre - a matinee at 2:30 pm and an evening performance at 7:00 pm. Members of the Big Island Magic Club will also be mesmerizing the audience. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors. For more information, call 323-9707, SKEA at 328-9392, or email alohamagic@aol.com

March 18, 2012
1st ANNUAL SAM CHOY'S POKE CONTEST - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT, KONA
Poke (po-KEH) is the Hawaiian word for "slice". This local-style pupu (appetizer) consists of marinated slices of fresh local fish that's raw, seared or cooked. Spearheaded by celebrity chef Sam Choy, the contest celebrates locally sourced seafood with competition in four divisions. Culinary creativeness encourages the use of seaweed, seeds, herbs, spices, nuts, marinades, tofu, fruit, vegetables and seasoning. Entry deadline is February 28 and contest details are conveniently posted online on Facebook at "Sam ChoyÕs Keauhou Poke Contest". Contest-related activities start 10 a.m., and include a Hawai'i Island Marketplace with fresh fish sales, guest cooking demo and a presentation on sustainable aquaculture by Guy Toyama of Friends of NELHA. Poke contest judging starts at 10 a.m. with an awards ceremony. A tasting open to the public will take place at 11:30 a.m. Admission to all activities is $3 at the door (keiki 12-and-under are free) and proceeds benefit the future culinary instruction facilities at HawaiÔi Community College-Palamanui. Sam ChoyÕs Keauhou Poke Contest is part of Keauhou ResortÕs annual Kamehameha III celebration March 16-18 that commemorates the Keauhou-born king, Lani Kauikeaouli. Visit keauhouresort.com for more details.

March 18, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Hawai'i County Band on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

March 18, 2012
15th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND INTERNATIONAL MARATHON - HILO
26.2 Mile Marathon, 10.8 Mile Run & 3.1 Mile Fitness Run/Walk. Run the coast of old Hawaii along the Pacific Ocean, through tropical rainforests, past exotic waterfalls, and along black lava beaches to finish at historic Hilo Bay Front. Run with elite runners in a small running field. Start to mile 10 is a net downhill of 500 ft. with some hills in the first 8 miles and then fairly flat after that. Hilo is located in one of the cooler lush areas of Hawaii, which translates into good running conditions. Enthusiastic volunteers cheer on the runners at well-stocked aid stations and at the finish line celebration. Time: 6am. 10.8 mile runners run the first 10.8 miles with the marathoners. The 3.1 Mile Fitness Run/Walk is from Hilo Bay around Queen Lili'uokalani Gardens. Info: Wayne Joseph 808/969-7400 or visit www.hilomarathon.org

March 24, 2012
"FIRE 'EM UP WITH NO ICE" CAR AND BIKESHOW FUNDRAISER - KAILUA-KONA
Sober Riders Motorcycle Club, Big Island Chapter presents the free to the public Second Annual "Fire 'em Up With No Ice" Car and Bikeshow. The event is a fundraiser and community awareness event for the Hawaii Meth Project. Registration for show participants is $10 for each car or bike to offset costs of multiple class people's choice judged trophies! Drive up registration starts at 9:00am with voting from 10am-12:30pm. Awards at 1pm. Live music, food, raffles, silent auction, and vendors. Sponsored by Lowes, Kona. For more information, call 808/895-4310 or email paidinfull4u@msn.com

March 24, 2012
ANNUAL "HAPPY DAY AT HULIHE'E" SPRING FUNDRAISER - HULIHE'E PALACE, KAILUA-KONA
An 8:30 a.m. traditional Hawaiian blessing kicks off the 9 a.m.-4 p.m. event, which is hosted by Palace caretakers, the Daughters of Hawai'i and the Calabash Cousins. Debuting at the fundraiser this year is the new cookbook, "Just Like Tutu Made With Love", which features recipes from Palace volunteers and supporters. The handy resource contains instructions for main dishes, salads, pupu, tropical beverages and desserts. It also has helpful everyday hints "for living happily' sprinkled among the pages. It will be available for $9.38 including tax. Browse among arts & crafts booth tents, a tempting bake sale featuring Aunty Nona's scrumptious peach cake, and the ever-popular "Classy Tutu's Attic". Choose a fresh flower lei made on site by Palace volunteers. The Kuakini Hawaiian Civic Club will offer ono food, and local hula halau will provide cultural entertainment. Prize drawings will take place throughout the day. For more info, contact the Palace at 329-1877, the Palace office at 329-9555, or visit www.daughtersofhawaii.org

March 24, 2012
"KULAI'A; LIVING LIFE FULLY THROUGH ART" - KONA INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE
Full Life, a Hawai'i Island non-profit supporting individuals with developmental disabilities announces its first annual Kulai'a festival showcasing the work and talent of Big Island artists of all abilities. Dance to the lively rhythms of "Casablanca", be inspired by the work of artists of all abilities, enjoy a silent auction and learn more about Full Life and the people they support. The event will take place from 10am to 2pm at the Kona International Marketplace, which is on Luhia Street across from the Kona Target. If you are an artist who would like to participate, a community member with silent auction items to donate, or a business owner that would like to sponsor this event, please call 808-322-9333, email admindir@fulllifehawa or visit www.fulllifehawaii.org

March 24, 2012
SINGSPIRATION CONCERT - KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
SingSpiration, presented annually at Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in the state of Hawaii, is a concert of inspirational sacred music and featured artists. This unique one of a kind event is presented to the public, free of charge, as the Chorale's way of saying thank you for the continued support and patronage of the public throughout our Festivale Chorale season. Time: 7:00 PM. For more information call 331-1115 or email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

March 31-April 1, 2012
TAHITIAN COMPETITION & MULTI-CULTURAL FESTIVAL - OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK, KAILUA-KONA
Two fun-filled days of music, dance & food. Time: 8am-6pm Saturday, March 31st (9am-6pm Sunday April 1st), at Maka'eo Pavillion, Old Airport Beach Park. For more information, call (808) 652-1775, email tcarolcasil@gmail.com or visit www.temanarose.com

April

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

thru April 1, 2012
TAHITIAN COMPETITION & MULTI-CULTURAL FESTIVAL - OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK, KAILUA-KONA
Two fun-filled days of music, dance & food. Time: (8am-6pm Saturday) 9am-6pm Sunday April 1st, at Maka'eo Pavillion, Old Airport Beach Park. For more information, call (808) 652-1775, email tcarolcasil@gmail.com or visit www.temanarose.com

April 1, 2012
LAVAMAN WAIKOLOA TRIATHLON FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
The 2nd Annual Lavaman 5K Sunset Fun Run will take place on Friday. Registration will be at Bike Works Beach 'n Sports at Queens' MarketPlace at 3pm; race will start at 5pm; music concert to follow race. On Saturday, the Lava Kids Aquathon (swim and run) takes place for kids under 7 thru age 16, along with a Health & Fitness Expo. Free to the public. The Annual Lavaman Triathlon will be held Sunday at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. This Olympic distance triathlon starts at 7:30am with a 1.5k swim in Anaeho'omalu Bay, continues with a 40k bike on the Queen K Highway and then a 10k run through the resort's hotel grounds and lava fields, finishing on the beach. (First finishers will reach Anaeho'omalu Bay at 9am.) The event is a major fundraiser for Team in Training as well as local area non-profit organizations. For more information about the races, call 329-9718 or visit www.lavamantriathlon.com for more info.

April 8-14, 2012
THE 47th ANNUAL MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL - HILO
A week-long festival of cultural events including Hawaii's most prestigious hula competition at Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. The festival begins with a Ho'olaule'a at the auditorium behind the Stadium on Easter Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lots of music, food and fun. Don't miss the crafts fair that takes place beginnning Wednesday, with incredible fresh lei and the cream of the crop Hawaiian crafts in the building adjacent to the Stadium. On Wednesday there is also a free hula exhibition night at the Stadium that begins at 6:30 pm; Thursday is the solo Miss Aloha Hula competition; Friday & Saturday are the group Kahiko (ancient) and 'Auana (modern) hula competitions. A grand parade winds through Hilo-town on Saturday morning. Visit www.merriemonarch.com for more info. View the competitions online here: K5TV

April TBA, 2012
SPRING ART MARKET - VOLCANO VILLAGE
This free fine arts market features original works of photography, painting, jewelry, and sculpture available for sale directly from the artists. Ongoing art demonstrations, a guided family nature walk, creative keiki activities, food booths and more!The Art Market is an event designed to introduce new Hawai'i Island talent to the community, with the potential for future inclusion in the very selective Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

April TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

April TBA, 2012
TORCH RUN FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS - KAILUA-KONA
The Hawaii Police Department and volunteers will carry the "Flame of Hope" through the streets of Kailua-Kona in an effort to raise awareness and funds for the athletes of Special Olympics West Hawaii. This event, known as the "Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics" is a tradition in the law enforcement community around the world. The event begins at 8 a.m. at First Hawaiian Bank, Lanihau Center. The "Flame of Hope" will be carried along Aii drive and to Hale Halewai and end at The Club in Kona, where the Special Olympics West Hawaii Powerlifting Tournament will be held after the run, at 10am, and its scores will be used to determine seeding at the State Summer Special Olympic Games on O'ahu in late May. For more information, call 345-1344 or email sowhdave@yahoo.com

April TBA, 2012
KONA DAIFUKUJI ORCHID CLUB ANNUAL SPRING MEMBERSHIP OPEN HOUSE AND PLANT SALE - HONALO
From 7-10pm at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall. Attendees will be introduced to the hobby of growing orchids at interactive and educational stations staffed by friendly club members. Learn about cattleya, dendrobium, cymbidium and epidendrum varieties. Free handouts on orchid culture will be available and plants grown by members will be sold. Attendees will also be able to enjoy a beautiful display of blooming plants presented by members; the ever-changing display is part of every meeting. The Kona Daifukuji Orchid Club is West Hawai'i's oldest orchidaceae organization, and it has a mission to learn about and foster orchid culture and promote fellowship among orchid collectors. The club meets the second Wednesday of every month at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall, located next to TeshimaÕs on Hwy. 11. For more information, contact club president Cheeta Wilson at 896-3900.

April TBA, 2012
PROJECT ART 2012 - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
The Holualoa Foundation for Arts & Culture will use the Donkey Mill Art Center to share simple acts of creativity with the community. With over 50 volunteers to guide attendees through every new experience, "Project Art 2011" will offer an array of hands-on workshops taught by Donkey Mill instructors and visiting artists. Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Cost TBA. For more information, call 322-3362, email hfac.dmac@hawaiiantel.net, or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

April TBA, 2012
KONA FAMILY FUN & HEALTH DAY
Kona Family Fun & Health Day is an event that bring families together for an enjoyable weekend where everything is free (food, entertainment, rides, activities/games, etc.). There will be many free health screenings, as well as community non-profit agencies providing information about available services. Time: 10 AM to 1 PM at Kealakehe High School Gymnasium. For more info, contact Linda Jeffrey, Kealakehe Parent-Community Center, at 327-4300, x. 2432, or email khparentcenter@yahoo.com

April TBA, 2012
THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY CATTLE BARON'S BALL - FOUR SEASONS RESORT
Put on your cowboy boots & your best western wear and get ready to lasso up a really good time! Eat, play, dance & enjoy an auction for a great cause. Time: 5:30-10:00 PM at Four Seasons Resort's Hoku Ampitheater. Cost: TBA. For more information, call 334-0010, email maile.carvalho@cancer.org or visit www.cattlebaronshawaii.org

April 15, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs Men's Glee Club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

April TBA, 2012
ANNUAL TSUNAMI TALK STORY DAY - HILO
Survivors share their stories. For more info, call (808) 935-0926 or visit www.tsunami.org

April 21, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring Halau Hula Ka Noeau with kumu hula Michael Pang, 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

April TBA, 2012
BOOK CLUB MEETING - KAILUA KONA LIBRARY
Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Public Library. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email Folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

April 21, 2012
EARTH AND OCEAN FESTIVAL/FREE CONCERT - KEAUHOU, KONA
The Earth & Ocean Festival at Keauhou is designed to showcase and emphasize the unique treasures of Hawaii Island through active participation in educational booths and activities on coral reef, ocean stewardship and conservation practices in Hawaii. Traditional Hawaiian cultural practices will be shared, and environmental presentations will be viewed in the Reef & Sustainable Island Theater. Enjoy locally made and sourced food including award winning Chef Paul Heerlein and students from the University of Hawaii Food Service ProgramMusical entertainment by Darlene Ahuna. Ride your bike to the event! Special parking for bikes. Time: 10:00am to 4pm at Keauhou Beach Resort's Luau Grounds. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-7585, email kirk@jacksdivinglocker.com, or visit http://www.kona-kohala.com/2010-Events/2010-earth-day-fair-at-keauhou.html

April TBA, 2012
WAIMEA COMMUNITY EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE
6am-7am at the Waimea Nature Park Ulu La'au. All are welcome to come to this community ecumenical "Son Rise" service held at the Waimea Nature Park Ulu La'au, located to the rear of the Canada France Telescope Office building in Waimea. Parking is permitted in the Canada France parking lot. Seating is on the grassy slope in the amphitheater-like setting fronting the stream. Please bring something to sit on that will keep you warm as you enjoy the music and presentation. For more information, call 885-1895, or email hoelike@aol.com

April 21 & 22, 2012
POPS MENAGERIE CONCERTS - KAILUA-KONA
A sometimes zany, often nostalgic, always fun-filled trip down memory lane, "Pops Menagerie" is a potpourri kind of event filled with unforgettable Broadway medleys, show tunes, popular period music, both past and present, a little classical and more. This event showcases the Gloryland & Celebration Singers, Kona Festivale Chorale, studio actors and musicians. Time: 7:00 PM April 21, and 3pm on April 22, at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. For information, call 331-1115 or email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

April TBA, 2012
ANNUAL KONA COMMUNITY EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE - OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
All are welcome to come to this community ecumenical "Son Rise" service held at the Old Airport Beach Park, Kailua-Kona at 6am. Brought to you by Kona Ministers' Fellowship.

May

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

May 1, 2012
LEI DAY CELEBRATION, "HE MO'OLELO O KA LEI" - HILO
"May, the Month of the Lei" celebration in Hilo's old Town Square, Kalakaua Park begins with Hawaiian music, hula, lei-making demonstrations, the heritage, history and culture of the lei. Time: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Kalakaua Park, Hilo, Cost:Free to the public. For more information, call 961-5711 or visit www.LeiDay.net

May 1, 2012
"MAY DAY IS LEI DAY IN HAWAII" CELEBRATION - VOLCANO
Annual "May Day is Lei Day Festival", 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. A family event for all ages - residents and visitors alike. Join in the creative and cultural sharing of lei-making demonstrations, lei contest and display, hula and Ôukulele performances, talk-story sessions, guided tours of the native forest and more. Lei contest is open to all ages, and cash prizes are awarded for outstanding entries. Lei entries become part of a silent auction fundraiser for VAC. Contest rules and criteria available on-line. Sponsored in part by Volcano Art CenterÕs Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village, 19-4074 Old Volcano Road. Free; donations appreciated. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

May 11, 2012
"IT'S A KAUKAU AFFAIR!" BENEFIT- HILO
Haili Christian School celebrates May Day with a special tasting of foods and desserts from 20 popular Big Island restaurants. Some of the Big Island's best chefs will offer unique food recipes to sample. This evening event follows the school's annual May Day program in the historic Haili School Gym. Aloha attire requested. Proceeds will benefit the Haili Christian School scholarship fund. Time: 5-8 pm at historic Haili Gym, Hilo. Cost: $25 per adult. For more information, call 961-5026, email coachkimo@hailischool.org or visit HailiSchool.org

May TBA, 2012
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY'S ORCHID SHOW & PLANT SALE - OLD AIRPORT PAVILION
The Show will open at 9 am on Friday; 8 am on Saturday; and will close at 6 pm. There will be many orchid plant vendors from all over the Big Island. Kona coffee, ceramics, cement pots, and crafts. Free to the public. For more information, call Linda at 329-1913.

May TBA, 2012
7th ANNUAL MOTHER'S DAY HULA AND CONCERT CELEBRATION
Location TBA. Halau Kala'akeakauikawekiu presents their annual "Mama, My Mama, I Love You" Mother's Day hula and concert celebration. Guests will enjoy entertainment by the halau, and music by top Hawaiian musicians. The event includes a silent auction, and food & beverages will be available for purchase during the evening. For more information, call 322-6141, 989-4616, or email flowerswaloha@aol.com

May TBA, 2012
A CONCERT CELEBRATING MOTHER'S DAY - WAIKOLOA BOWL, QUEENS' GARDENS
Details TBA. An evening of music and dance under the stars. Tickets available at the door, Queens' MarketPlace Office, Peaberry & Galette in Keauhou Shopping Center, and the Huaka'i Office at Keauhou Beach Resort. No coolers or alcohol, please. For more info, call Queens' MarketPlace at 886-8822, Na Wai Iwi Ola at 322-3372 or visit www.nawaiiwiola.org.

May TBA, 2012
7th ANNUAL AUGIE T. MOTHERS DAY WEEKEND SHOW - KAILUA-KONA
One of Hawaii's favorite stand up comics headlines his sixth annual Mothers Day Weekend affair guaranteed to tickle mom pink with an evening of local-style laughs. Time: 8 pm at King Kamahemeha's Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua Kona. Cost: $15 Advance/$20 Door. For more information, call 329-4368, email kmfpro@gte.net or visit www.bigislandcomedy.com

May TBA, 2012
ANNUAL "SINGSPIRATION" CONCERT - KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
Annual free concert at historic Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive with one of Kona's finest choral groups. For more event information, please call the Kona Festivale Chorale Office at 331-1115, email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

May TBA, 2012
"MAY DAY MELE" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Live music & hula on stage, hosted by Leilehua Yuen, with Bob Alder on the mighty pipe organ. Bring Mom & the whole family to this great community event. Time: 2:00 p.m; doors open at 1:30pm at The Palace Theater, 38 Haili Street, Hilo. Free to the public. For more information, call 934-7010 or email judy.bailey@hilopalace.com or visit hilopalace.com

May TBA, 2012
KONA TOWN MEETING - OLD AIRPORT STATE PARK, MAKAE'O PAVILION
The Kona Town Meeting will start at 6 PM and conclude at 8 PM at Maka'eo Events Pavilion which is located at the old Kona Airport Park. Free to the public. For more information, call 331-8602, email Fred@kieleokona.com or visit www.konatownmeeting.org

May TBA, 2012
BIG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL - MAUNA LANI RESORT AND THE FAIRMONT ORCHID
This "Talk Story" film festival celebrates independent, narrative, Hawaiian and international filmmakers and their films. There will be social food & beverage events and entertainment as well as the film presentations, and an award brunch. Kama'aina discounts for tickets every night. There will be some great celebrity guests. The "Best of the Fest" event will present the audience-voted best feature and best short film of this year's festival at 5:30pm, with a concert featuring a popular Hawaiian musician. Best of the Fest tickets are available beginning April 1st. For more information, call 808/557-5200, 808/883-0394 office or email bigislandff@aol.com. For complete schedule information and tickets, visit BigIslandFilmFestival.com

May TBA, 2012
ANNUAL VISITOR INDUSTRY CHARITY WALK - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Registration for the 3 mile Charity Walk will be at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel from 6-7am. Run starts at 6:45am; Walk at 7am (For safety reasons, walkers should not be on the route prior to the runners). Those under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult and walkers under the age of 18 must have their application signed by a parent or guardian. A minimum donation of $35 adult/$25 under 18, including infants, is required to participate, and includes a T-shirt and the Beach Party. The Beach Party following the Walk will include a brunch, games and top-notch live entertainment. Registration forms can be requested at http://www.charitywalkhawaii.org/registration.html. For more information, call the Hawaii Hotel & Lodging Assn. at (808) 923-0407 or visit www.charitywalkhawaii.org

May TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale on Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. The next Sale will be June 18, 2011. This is a special date due to the Kamehameha Day holiday falling on the usual Saturday of the Book Sale. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

May TBA, 2012
HOSPICE OF HILO'S ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Come celebrate life through art, education and music. This free family event includes a 5k pledge walk and the "Walk of Remembrance", a walk in memory of loved ones, while helping raise funds to help support the hospice program of compassionate support for those who are dying and the families who love and care for them. At sunset, share remembrance at "Lights of Remembrance", the launch of lanterns on the Wailoa River. Luminaries are $20 each, available in advance, or at the event. Live music and food will be available. Registration at 3pm; Walk at 4-7pm, at Wailoa State Park. Walk registration form available at www.hospiceofhilo.org. Time: 4-7 PM at Wailoa State Park, Hilo. For more information, call 808/969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org

May TBA, 2012
KA'U COFFEE FESTIVAL - PAHALA
On Saturday, enjoy non-stop entertainment, broke 'da mouth food, local craft booths and informative farm tours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Meet Bull Kailiawa, whose Ka'u coffee took home a Coffee of the Year award in the 2011 Specialty Coffee Association of America's annual international cupping competition. Talk story with a host of Ka'u coffee growers who have been racking up awards for five years and counting. Get the lowdown on how to appreciate a good cup of joe 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. during guided coffee tastings by a team of industry experts, including Hawai'i's Pete Licata, the newly named top U.S. Barista Champion. Find out who's vying in the recipe contest and sample entries after the 1 p.m. judging. New to this year's festival is a Ka'u Coffee reverse trade mission where specialty coffee guru George Howell and other coffee notables will teach first-hand about the attributes of the award-winning brew. On Sunday, the public is invited to the 9 a.m. Ka'u Coffee College where participants can attend classes led by coffee processors, marketers and tasting experts. Farm tours will again be available. The Pahala Community Center is just off Hwy. 11; look for the Pahala sign between PunaluÔu Black Sand Beach and HawaiÔi Volcanoes National Park. Most events are free. For more info, call (808) 929-9550 or visit www.kaucoffeefestival.com

May TBA, 2012
DAIFUKUJI SOTO MISSION BAZAAR - HONALO
The anxiously awaited annual bazaar will take place from 9:00am-1:00pm. Food, preserves, fresh produce, orchids, plants, crafts and clothes will be on display and for sale, in addition to a rummage and a "white elephant" sale - and more! Entertainment by Daifukuji Taiko Drummers. The Mission is just north of Teshima's restaurant in Honalo.

May TBA, 2012
KAILUA KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
New members are welcome. Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kailua-Kona Public Library Lana. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

May 19, 2012
THE ART & TRADITIONS OF HULA AT KILAUEA - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
This Volcano Arts Center program features a Hula Kahiko "informance" with kumu Leilehua Yuen and Manu Josiah. A 45-minute narrated demonstration of the preparation, protocol and offering of traditional hula and chant will be presented at the hula platform in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, followed by 45 minute lessons in lei making at 12 pm and 'ukulele playing at 1:30 pm (bring your 'ukulele if you have one) at VAC. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

May 20, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

May TBA, 2012
ARTISTS IN ACTION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
Join members of the Volcano Village Artists Hui for a day of free demonstrations and hands-on activities. Activities will include demonstrations of glass blowing, pottery making, metal tooling, jewelry making, Japanese paste paper and relief printmaking. Come enjoy a day of free fun, learn how local artists create their unique works, and try your hand at a variety of creative projects. A delicious gourmet lunch will be available for purchase. Time: 11am to 3pm at Volcano Garden Arts, 19-3834 Old Volcano Hwy, Volcano Village. Free to the public. For more information, call 808/987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com

May TBA, 2012
MAMo NATIVE HAWAIIANS ARTS & CULTURAL FESTIVAL - OUTRIGGER KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT, KONA
This special native Hawaiian Arts Market and Cultural Festival will feature more than 25 native Hawaiian visual artists, cultural demonstrations and performing artists. A rare opportunity to meet the artists - plus keiki art tent, handcrafted items and fine contemporary art work. Keauhou Beach Resort. For more info, call (808) 324-2553 or visit www.maoliartsmonth.org

May 26, 2012
HULA ARTS AT KILAUEA: A "HULA INFORMANCE" - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
This VAC program features kumu Leilehua Yuen and Manu Josiah, in a 50-minute narrated demonstration of the preparation, protocol and offering of traditional hula and chant, from 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near VAC Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mat and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there is a hands-on cultural demonstration from 9:30AM to 1:30AM at VAC Gallery porch. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

May 26-27, 2012
HAWAII AIRSHOW INVITATIONAL 2012 - KONA
Aviation AirShow featuring local and world known military and civilian flyers. Gates open at 9:am close at 4 pm. Cost: Advance web tickets $ 15.00 General Admission. For more information, call 808/326-1680, email Hawaiiairshow@Hawaii.rr.com or visit www.hawaiiairshow.com

May 26-28, 2012
ANNUAL HILO INTER-TRIBAL POWWOW & NATIVE HERITAGE DAYS
9am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday; 9am-4pm, Monday. Three days of non-competitive sharing, classes, a craft fair featuring the work of traditional artisans, and other educational, cultural, and fun events culminating in an honoring of veterans. Lots of drumming and dancing! Everyone is invited to experience the sights, sounds, flavors and spirit of Native America through music, dance, storytelling, food, arts and crafts. This is a drug and alcohol free event. The Powwow is hosted by the Federation of American Natives. For more information, call 808-747-2903 or e-mail hilopowwow@yahoo.com

May TBA, 2012
ANNUAL BONSAI EXHIBITION - WAIMEA
Waimea's Bonyu Bonsai club will present a showing of plants and trees, from 9 am-4 pm at the Weaimea Community Center. Free to the public. Call 887-0862 for more info.

June

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

June TBA, 2012
KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL'S ANNUAL "LADIES NIGHT OUT"
Details TBA. All women are invited to attend this free community event, spending an evening taking care of themselves in a fun and social way. The event will feature complimentary services and information such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, glucose screening, heart disease information, cancer awareness, and more. Volunteer services of haircuts, manicures, massage, skin care, and make-up consultations will be available. There will also be live entertainment, games, and door prizes. Direct health-related organizations and local businesses are encouraged to have an informational booth or be a sponsor. Volunteers for complimentary services such as massage, haircuts, and manicures are welcome as well. For information, call 322-6960 or email ebryant@hhsc.org

June 10, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and the Hawai'i County Band on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

June 11, 2012
NORTH KOHALA KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION
8:00am Lei Draping at the statue of King Kamehameha in Kapa'au; 9:00am Floral Parade from Downtown Hawi thru Kapa'au; 10:00am-4:00pm, Ho'olaule'a (crafts fair) at Kamehameha Park. For more info, call 808-557-6042 or visit www.kamehamehadaycelebration.org

June 11, 2012
KAMEHAMEHA FESTIVAL - HILO
This festival features features a ho'olaule'a with top Hawaii recording artists, hula halau, and various cultural presentations. 10 a.m. Ð 5 p.m. at Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo. Free. A drug, alcohol and smoke-free event. For more information contact Pua at (808) 989-4844 or e-mail pua@mamalahoa.org

June 12, 2011
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION PARADE - KAILUA-KONA
To take place on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, the annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade. The parade begins at 9 a.m. near Royal Kona Resort at Walua Road, passing through town to the Kailua Pier and up Palani Road to Kuakini Hwy., ending near the West Hawaii Today building. A ho'olaulea will be held after the parade at Swing Zone near the Old Airport beginning at 10:30 a.m. Cultural workshops, exhibits, hula and live performances will be featured. For more information, call 322-9944 or email 123karen@earthlink.net

June TBA, 2012
ANNUAL VOLCANO POTTERY SALE
The Annual Volcano Pottery Sale will feature newly created work by potters living and working on the Big Island. This is a great opportunity to meet the artists and to view their unique pottery styles all at one venue. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 pm at Hale Ho'omana, located on the Niaulani Campus of the Volcano Art Center, Volcano Village. Free to the public. For more information, call 985-8530, email ron@ryhpottery.com or visit www.ryhpottery.com/volcano_pottery_sale

June 16, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring Kahula 'O Nawahine Noho Pu'ukapu with kumu hula Ana Nawahine Kahoopi'i, 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply. For more info, call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

June TBA, 2012
KA'U FAMILY FUN FEST - NA'ALEHU
Details TBA. Contact Raylene at (808) 265-8251, email: kaufamilyfunfest@gmail.com, Website: http://okaukakou.com/

June 16, 2012
"RUN FORREST RUN" KEIKI FUN RUNS - KAILUA-KONA
A family event to be held at Kona Commons, sponsored by Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and the Kona Marathon. A day of fun for the whole family. Children ages 1-14 can participate in age specific runs/walks. All entrants receive t-shirt, finisher ribbon, and goodie bag. Register at Bubba Gump's in Kailua-Kona, or print out application at www.konamarathon.com and mail it in. Time: 8:00 AM -Noon. For more information, call 808-967-8240, email Raceinfo@konamarathon.com or visit https://www.konamarathon.com/keikirun.html

June TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale on Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. This is a special date due to the Kamehameha Day holiday falling on the usual Saturday of the Book Sale. This sale will feature a large selection of Hawaiiana as well as many children's books. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

June TBA, 2012
KAILUA-KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
The Kailua Kona Library Book Club will meet on the library lanai. Light refreshments will be served. New members are welcome. Time: 11;00 AM to 1:00 PM. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-0203 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

June TBA, 2012
PU'UHONUA O HONAUNAU NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
The Cultural Festival takes visitors back to the old Hawai'i of the 1800's. Practitioners in traditional dress will provide visitors with a uniquely Hawaiian experience, honoring the culture and traditions of the Hawaiian people. This will be a time and place for local residents and the community to gather, learn and share. There will be a ho'okupu (offering) opening and closing ceremony, hula performances, canoe rides, food tasting, weaving, hukilau, musical implements and lei making, medicinal plants, archaeological hikes and much more. To get to Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, go south on Highway 11 to mile marker 104, turn right on Hwy. 160 (Ke Ala o Keawe Road), for three miles. Parking is limited. Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-2326, x1212, email Rae_Godden@nps.gov or visit www.nps.gov/puho

June TBA, 2012
JAPANESE FESTIVAL - KONAWAENA HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA, KONA
The Kona Japanese Civic Association, which has been in existence for more than 50 years, will be holding its annual meeting and festival from 9:30am-2pm June 26 at the Konawaena H.S. Cafeteria. There will be a large sampling of Japanese food, make-and-take crafts, games, displays and entertainment. Tickets are $10 adults; $5 children younger than 10. For more info or to purchase tickets, call Walter Kunitake at 938-3624 or Marsha Boyle at 936-5414.

June 24, 2012
KONA MARATHON & FAMILY FUN RUNS
These 1/2 Marathon, 10K and 5K courses run along the spectacular scenic shoreline of the Pacific Ocean, offering beautiful views of crashing waves and lush rain forests, and extending into the unique black lava volcanic landscape of the Big Island. Get a taste of the Ironman running course, and experience the true aloha of Hawaii in this smaller family-friendly event. Time: 5:30 AM - 2:30 PM at Keauhou Beach Resort, Kona. Entry fees. For more information, call 808/967-8240, email raceinfo@konamarathon.com or visit www.konamarathon.com

June 24, 2012
ROAD CLOSURES FOR KONA MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON
Southbound Alii Dr. from Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort to Palani Rd., from 5am-12:30pm
Southbound Kuakini Hwy. from Makala Blvd. to Palani Rd., from 5:45-10:45am
Southbound Makala Blvd. from Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy. to Kuakini Hwy., from 6-10:30am
OTEC Rd. - both directions, from 7-9:30am
Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy will remain open during the race, however the makai (west) shoulder will be coned off to separate runners from traffic. Motorists are advised to use caution. For more info, please call 325-0287

July

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

July 4, 2012
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE & CELEBRATION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
The parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Volcano Post Office and proceed for one half mile along Old Volcano Road to Cooper Community Center, featuring the Hawaii County Band, floats, antique cars, fire engines, bicycles, horses, and animals in costumes! Music, games, food booths, dunking pond, craft fair and prizes to follow. Call Betsy Mitchell for more info at (808) 967-7209.

July 4, 2012
4th of JULY SILENT AUCTION BENEFIT - VOLCANO VILLAGE
This annual fundraiser is a much anticipated part of Volcano's popular 4th of July parade and festival, which attracts hundreds of residents and visitors each year. The auction is held at the Cooper Center on Wright Road in Volcano Village, from 9 to 11:30am. Auction items for 2010 include air, sea, and land adventures; overnight stays; massage, reiki, and acupuncture sessions; admissions to area attractions; and restaurant and retail gift certificates. There is something for everyone at this fun and popular silent auction! Jewelry, fine arts, gift baskets, crafts, clothing, books, DVDs, computer software, printer ink, and more make up the diverse array of goods and services up for bid. Proceeds benefit Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (tax deductible donations welcome through July 3). For more info, callÊ985-7373, email admin@fhvnp.org, or visit www.fhvnp.org

July 4, 2012
KAILUA-KONA JULY 4th PARADE
A wonderful community event. The parade goes from Kona Pool/Gym to Walua Road past Coconut Grove. Announcing stations at West Hawaii Today, Remixx at King Kamehameha Mall, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, Boston Basil's, Pancho & Lefty's, Kimo's (with magic before), Waterfront Row, Lava Java, Humpy's at Coconut Grove. Time: 5:30 p.m. start, pau by 7:00 p.m. Sign up or volunteer online at www.paradesinkona.com. For more information, call 990-4785 or email stoneinkona@gmail.com

July 4, 2012
GREAT WAIKOLOA RUBBER DUCKIE RACE
Benefit for United Cerebral Palsy Assn. of Hawaii. Duckie Race at 3pm. Free entertainment all day, from 10 am to 8:30 pm at the Coronation Pavilion; Fireworks and laser light show at 8:30 pm. Forms for "Duckie adoption" available at all Kings' Shops merchants, Waikoloa Beach Resort.

July 4, 2012
WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT FAMILY 4th OF JULY CELEBRATION EXTRAVAGANZA
Entertainment, cotton candy, popcorn & family fun at Queens' Marketplace. From 6-8pm (Gates open at 5 pm) at the Waikoloa Bowl at Queens' Gardens, there will be a free, live music concert. Beach chairs & mats welcome. No coolers please. This is an Alcohol and Drug Free Event. At 8:00pm, there will be a Fireworks Extravaganza over Waikoloa Bowl. For more information, call 886-8822, email spelfrey@waikoloaland.com or visit waikoloabeachresort.com

July 4, 2012
TURTLE INDEPENDENCE DAY
Three and four year old turtles are released in the ocean after growing up in the Honu Ponds at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, Kohala Coast. The honu will be gathered at 10:30 am from the Honu Ponds and they will be paraded to the beach front for the release. A welcome ceremony will kick off the event, followed by their release into the ocean. This annual celebration honors the honu and helps educate the public about the Hawaiian green sea turtle. There will be live entertainment, a 4th of July BBQ, & an educational display about green sea turtles. For more information, call 808-885-6622, email sbredo@maunalani,.com or visit www.maunalani.com

July 4, 2012
PARKER RANCH 50th ANNUAL JULY 4th HORSERACES & RODEO
Big Island Ranchers participate in fast-paced horseraces and rodeo events with Parker Ranch cowboys. Ribbon mugging, ranch mugging, dally team roping, Po'o Wai U and more. Keiki activities including roping practice and pony rides. Lots of food and mementos for sale at the Parker Ranch Store booth. Time: 9 am to 12 noon at Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena, Waimea. Cost: $5 in advance/$6 at the gate; kids 10 & under free. For more information, call 885.2323, email nguilloz@parkerranch.com or visit www.parkerranch.com

July 4, 2012
KA'U 4th OF JULY PARADE AND HO'OLAULEA
Event will take place from 10am-6pm. Parade on Hwy. 11 will begin at 10am, featuring pa'u riders, classic cars. floats and marchers, followed by a ho'olaulea at the ball park from 11am-6pm. Food, crafts, service booths, and a full lineup of entertainment are planned.

July TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale on Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

July TBA, 2012
HAWAII VOLCANOES NAT'L PARK'S ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park's annual cultural festival will feature Hawaiian music, hula, crafts sales and demonstrations by local artists and practitioners from 10am to 3pm. The event is free; Park entrance fees apply. Contact 808/985-6011 or 985-6153 or visit www.fhvnp.org for more info.

July TBA, 2012
BIG ISLAND HAWAIIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL - HILO
Enjoy authentic Hawaiian music, including 'ukulele, slack key and steel guitar & and falsetto singing at this always popular two-day event featuring artists from around Hawai'i. At the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium from noon to 6 p.m. each day. Contact the East Hawai'i Cultura Center at (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org for more information.

July 14 & 15, 2012
RELAY FOR LIFE - KAILUA-KONA
Event begins at 5pm at Old Airport Beach Park, with a cancer survivors reception and dinner. Teams start walking at 6pm, continuing till 6am the next morning. There will be live entertainment, a silent auction, food, family fun and a chance to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Reservations for the dinner and reception should be made at 334-0010. Call the same number to start a team or to volunteer.

July TBA, 2012
ANNUAL "CHRISTMAS IN JULY" - ART, GIFT, COLLECTIBLES, & CRAFT FAIR - KAILUA-KONA
Time: 9:00am to 5:00 pm at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach hotel, Kailua-Kona. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5155 or email dagoose@hawaii.rr.com

July TBA, 2012
6th ANNUAL FIL-AM FRIENDSHIP DOUBLES TENNIS TOURNAMENT - KEAUHOU, KONA
The Kona Visayan Club (KVC) will host the Annual Philippine American Friendship Doubles Tennis Tournament at the Holua Tennis Center at Mauna Loa Village. The event categories of the tournament are recreational, men's, women's and mixed doubles. Trophies and champion T-shirts will be awarded to the winners of each category. Free tournament shirts will be given to the first 50 registered and paid players and free food and drinks will be available to the players. Silent auction; Hit-for-Prizes and more. KVC is a non-profit organization and proceeds from this fund-raising will support scholarship grants to high school graduates in Kona. For details about the event, please visit the website http://www.gonnalove-it.com/tennis, call Lovette Llantos at 217-9671, or email lovette@hawaii.rr.com for more info.

July TBA, 2012
ANNUAL DAIFUKUJI ORCHID SHOW - HONALO
West Hawaii's oldest orchid club offers attendees complimentary refreshments, plus an orchid boutonniere corsage while they last. Time is 8 a.m.-2 p.m. with a rousing 10 a.m. performance by the Daifukuji MissionÕs Taiko drummers. Guests will be treated to an elaborate display of blooming cattleya, cymbidium, dendrobium, phalaenopsis, miltonia, vanda and more, all owned by club members. A center exhibit will showcase miniature orchids atop lush ferns. Veteran club members will staff a Question and Answer Booth where attendees can get expert advice on caring for orchids. The club boasts eight charter members who each have been growing orchids at least 29 years at different Kona elevations. In addition to informative educational displays, the annual event offers an outdoor sale of high quality orchid species and hybrids. The club meets the second Wednesday of every month at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall on Hwy. 11 at mile marker 114, just north of Kainaliu, just south of Teshima's restaurant. For information, contact club president Cheeta Wilson at 808-896-3900.

July 15, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

July TBA, 2012
KAILUA KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kailua-Kona Public Library Lana. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

July 21, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring Kahula Halau Ulumamo O Hiulo Paliku with kumu hula Mamo Brown, 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply. For more info, call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

July TBA, 2012
8th ANNUAL BUILDING & DESIGN EXPO - KEAUHOU, KONA
This free event will be held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort. Over 65 exhibits featuring home design, construction, and remodeling ideas, including home decorating, roofing & decking, flooring & window treatments; kitchens & baths, solar products and more. Hours: Friday, July 22, 5-8pm; Sat., July 23, 9am-5pm; Sun., July 24, 9am-3pm. For more info, call Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce at 329-1758.

July TBA, 2012
HAWAIIAN HEALING GARDEN AND MANGO FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU
10 a.m.-5 p.m at Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. The all-day festival celebrates Hawaii's delicious and diverse mango varieties, with juicy mango recipe and fruit tastings, a mango tree and plant sale, grafting and growing demonstrations, mango-themed activities, plus arts and crafts, live music and hula. There will also be organic agriculture and cultural healing arts displays. Enjoy an Eco Fashion Show, Hawaiian music and hula on the scenic, palm-fringed grounds of the Keauhou Beach Resort's Royal Garden. Exhibitor booths are available for businesses and non-profit organizations. Volunteers are encouraged to help with festival day activities, speaker support and workshops. For more info, phone 334-3340 or visit www.HawaiiHealingGarden.com

August

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in zHilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

Aug TBA, 2012
HAWAII STATE SENIOR SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT - KAILUA-KONA
Senior stoftball teams from all of the Islands meet for the 37th Annual Hawaii State Senior softball tournament. Time: Games begin at 8:00am and run throughout the day at Old Airport Softball and Little League Fields, Kailua-Kona. Free to the public. For more information, call 961-8592 or email parksrecreation@co.hawaii.hi.us

August TBA, 2012
HILO ORCHID SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE
The 60th Annual Hilo Orchid Society Show and Sale. Thousands of orchids in displays created by top notch growers and amateurs will entice audiences in this three day spectacle at Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. Visitors can expect to see exotic species, beautifully grown specimen plants and the latest hybrids, many created by Big Island orchid breeders. Judging of plants will be conducted by certified American Orchid Society judges with dozens of trophies and ribbons awarded. Information about orchids and their cultivation will be offered in free mini-classes conducted by experts. The show will feature a refreshment area with a silent auction, and entertainment each afternoon. Sales areas offer orchid and plant related products plus, of course, magnificent orchids for purchase, including some you won't find in your typical retail garden store or nursery. Purchases may be shipped to the mainland. For more information, call 333-1852 or go to href="http://www.hiloorchidsociety.org">www.hiloorchidsociety.org.

August TBA, 2012
"CREAM OF THE CROP" COFFEE AND DESSERT TASTING - FOUR SEASONS RESORT
From 10am to 2pm, the Kona Coffee Council will be holding its Annual Cream of the Crop coffee and dessert tasting competition at the Hualalai Four Seasons Resort in the Haku Amphitheater. Admission is free. Twenty-one select Kona coffee growers will each have booths in the amphitheater providing sample cups of their brewed coffee along with education about coffee growing and processing in the Kona region of the Big Island of Hawaii. The competition is divided into three categories of coffee growing: Organic, Estate and Open, which allows all growers an opportunity to participate in the event. To complement the delicious coffee there will be live Hawaiian music, & chefs from local restaurants and resorts, as well as amateurs, will be offering desserts made with Kona coffee as one of the ingredients. Visitors to the event will be encouraged to vote for their favorite coffee in the three categories. Local chefs will be voting for their favorite coffees as well, so visitors can see how their votes compare to those of professionals. Finally, the desserts will be judged by a panel, and the results of the voting will be announced before the end of the day. Interspersed with the coffee and dessert booths will be a number of local artists who will be demonstrating, and have for sale, coffee related arts. This event is being sponsored by the Hualalai at Four Seasons Resort, Kamehameha Schools, and the Kona Coffee Council. For more information, call 808/328-1666 or email jimmonk@alum.mit.edu

August TBA, 2012
4th ANNUAL DON THE BEACHCOMBER MAI TAI FESTIVAL
Bartenders from across the country will compete in the 3rd Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival for the coveted $10K cash prize. The day begins at 11am, with the Mai Tai Marketplace and Battle of the BBQ; local artists and vendors will display their work while local chefs compete for the title of World's Best BBQ. Then Henry Kapono will rock the Royal Kona, poolside. The Mix-off and judging of Mai Tai's will take place at Don's Mai Tai Bar, where celebrity judges will pick the winner! All this is free and open to the public. Finally, see a live music concert with a top-name band TBA. Tickets must be purchased for this portion of the Mai Tai Festival at www.groovetickets.com. The Event will take place from 11am-9:30 pm. For more information, call 808-214-8133, email liz@hawaiihotels.com or visit www.royalkonaresort.com

August TBA, 2012
ESTABLISHMENT DAY HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL - KAWAIHAE
The public is invited to join the to participate in the cultural demonstrations and workshop activities in Pelekane (royal courtyard) located near the beach below Pu'ukohola Heiau with only one stipulation: that each visitor learns at least one craft before leaving the area to help preserve a part of the Hawaiian culture. Parking will be on the coral flats south of Kawaihae Harbor. Arts and craft workshops and demonstrations will be available from 11am-3pm. Hawaiian canoe rides and much more. Local musicians will play songs of Hawaii. Bring water and lunch if planning to stay the entire day. It is recommended that comfortable clothing be worn and the use some type of sunscreen. PNHP is located about a mile south of Kawaihae on the Kohala Coast. Call (808) 882-7218 for more info.

August TBA, 2012
"THE FOOD BASKET HAWAII" FOOD DRIVE - ISLANDWIDE
For more information, call 933-6030, email taylin.foodbaskethi@gmail.com or visit www.foodbaskethi.org

August TBA, 2012
3rd ANNUAL WILIWILI FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
To be held from 11am-6pm at Waikoloa Village Golf Course on Melia Street. Explore and enjoy Hawaiian music, hula, food, artisans, crafts, and informational vendor booths, as well as a Keiki Zone and a putting contest hosted by the Waikoloa Village Association. Admission is free. The Festival is hosted by Waikoloa Village Outdoor Circle and Waikoloa Village Association. For more information, to rent booth space, or for corporate sponsorship, contact Julia Alos at 883-1191 or email wiliwilifest2011@gmail.com

August TBA, 2012
VOLCANO ART CENTER RAIN FOREST RUNS
Run at 4,000 feet, in the quaint village of Volcano, outside of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The 5K & 10K participants go through the lush native rain forest. The 1/2 Marathon continues into the upper ranch lands with stunning views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. All three runs are out and back courses. Start/Finish is at Cooper Center on Wright Road. Feel the power of the Big Island of Hawaii while running on one of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea. Time: 7:00 AM - Noon. Meet at Cooper Center Community Center, Volcano. Entry fees. For more information, call 967-8240, email raceinfo@volcanoartcenter.org or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

August TBA, 2012
ANNUAL "TASTE OF LIFE" BENEFIT - KEAUHOU, KONA
This annual fundraiser features dinner, drinks, dancing, & a silent auction to benefit the Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation and the Big Island community. 100% of the funds collected goes toward making programs and services available to people with HIV/AIDS on the Big Island, such as a food pantry, financial & medical assistance, prevention education, counseling, outreach, and rapid testing. For details, call 331-8177, email tina@hihaf.org, or visit www.hihaf.org for more info.

August TBA, 2012
RELAY FOR LIFE - WAIMEA
The 9th Annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Waimea, is set to begin at 5:00pm on Saturday, with the Survivors Dinner. Opening ceremony to begin at 6:00pm followed by the first lap at 6:30pm. The event will go through 6:30am Sunday at Anderson Arena, mile maker 51 on Mamalahoa Hwy heading towards Honokaa. This event celebrates cancer survivors, remembers those who have lost their battle with cancer, honors those who fight back against cancer, and raises vital funds needed to help find a cure for cancer. The night of Relay there will be a Silent Auction and food items for sale, educational information, entertainment - everyone is welcome! For more information, call 895-3168 or email janko423@yahoo.com

August 26, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

August TBA, 2012
"COOL FUSION; THE FESTIVAL OF 1000 BOWLS" BENEFIT - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
This wonderful fundraiser will benefit the ceramics department at Donkey Mill Art Center. Local artists have volunteered their time to make 1000 beautiful handmade ceramic bowls. Guests will choose a handmade ceramic bowl to take home with them after enjoying a lunch of somen noodles accompanied by live music. Time: 12:00pm-3:00 pm. Cost: $20 adults; $10 children, includes handmade bowl and lunch. For more information, call 322-3362, email DonkeyMill@gmail.com or visit donkeymillartcenter.org

August TBA, 2012
LAVAMAN TRIATHLON & SPORTS FESTIVAL
Activities on Saturday include a Family Health, Sports and Fitness Expo, "Health Grinds" Contest & Sampling at Keauhou Shopping Center, and LavaKids Youth Aquathon, Keiki Dash & Picnic at Kahalu'u Beach Park. On Sunday, the first annual Lavaman Keauhou Triathlon will start at 7am. The event is open to elite and age group athletes of all levels, and to relay teams. Entry fee applies. There will be an Awards Banquet & Beach Party at the end of the day. For more information, call 877/532-8468 or visit www.lavamantriathlon.com

August TBA, 2012
NORTH HAWAII HOSPICE FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY - FAIRMONT ORCHID
A meaningful ceremony to honor and remember loved ones that have passed. There will be a sharing of music and hula, Taiko drummers, chanting, and prayers, followed by a lantern release into Pauoa Bay at sunset. Admission is free. Floating lanterns for decorating and inscribing messages will be provided for a suggested donation of $10. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Complimentary self-parking will be provided by The Fairmont Orchid. For more info or to reserve a lantern, call North Hawaii Hospice at 885-7547 or visit www.northhawaiihospice.org

September

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL MS. ALOHA NUI GALA - WAIKOLOA BEACH MARRIOTT
"Giving big, bold, beautiful Big Island women the chance to shine, and share their supersized style and aloha in the spotlight. Contestants are evaluated on their presentation in casual and formal wear, poise, grace and talent." Doors open 5:30 p.m.; pageant begins at 6:30 p.m. Admission charge. For contest information, call Leiola Mitchell, 896-3798. For more info on this and other events, email joinus@waikoloaland.com or visit hawaiiislandfestival.org.

September TBA, 2012
2012 RUN FOR HOPE - FOUR SEASONS RESORT HUALALAI
Run For Hope is a non-competitive 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk event. Proceeds from this event benefit cancer research in Hawaii. Friday: Annual Taste of Hawaii Island; Saturday: Hualalai Golf Scramble and Hualalai Tennis Tournament, and Sunday: Run For Hope 10K Run, 5K Run/Walk. For more information, call the Event Hotline at 808.325.8052. Registration forms are available at http://www.fsrh.net/pr/run_for_hope.pdf. For more info, email monica.balanay@fourseasons.com or visit www.fourseasons.com/hualalai

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL POKE CONTEST - HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE RESORT BALLROOM
Both home cooks and top professional chefs compete against their peers for the championship recipe of this popular Hawaiian dish that is made from the freshest fish or shellfish plus seasonings, and after the judges announce the winners, the audience gets to taste too. Doors open at 11:00 a.m.; program begins at noon. Admission charge. Please call Linda Pokipala, 937-4896 for contest information. For more info on this and other events, call 886-8822, email joinus@waikoloaland.com or visit hawaiiislandfestival.org.

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL KINDY SPROAT FALSETTO & STORYTELLING CONTEST - WAIKOLOA BEACH MARRIOTT
To be held at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott's Naupaka Ballroom from 6-10pm. Celebrating its 20th year, this unique folk music competition features talented male singers of all ages who can not only sing in the unique falsetto style, but can also captivate the audience with the stories behind the songs. Doors open 6:00 p.m.; contest begins 7:00 p.m. $7 admission. For contest information, call Pua Garmon, 345-8575. For more info on this and other events, call 886-8822, email joinus@waikoloaland.com or visit hawaiiislandfestival.org

September TBA, 2012
QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI LONG DISTANCE CANOE RACES
The world's largest long distance canoe race, attended by paddlers from all over the world. Two days of racing, with the first day being the single-hull canoe races, followed by double hull and one-person canoe races on Sunday. Crews from Hawaii, the US mainland, and around the world come to enter this world class event. The fun includes a cultural crafts fair on the Pier, and more. For the race schedule, visit Kai Opua's website.

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL HAWAII SLACK KEY GUITAR FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU, KONA
This annual festival, which features the greats of slack key guitar, will be held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Convention Center from 12-5pm. Food and drink will be available for purchase; no outside food or beverages allowed. Free admission.

September TBA, 2012
4th ANNUAL BIENI KOHLER JOHNSON 3.1 MILE FUN RUN/WALK - WAIMEA
A fun, family event. with a start time of 9am. S;ame day registration begins at 7am; start time 9am. First prize for gathering the most in donations receives a two night stay at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Second place will be awarded a round of golf for four at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Credit cards now accepted on race day for an additional $1 fee; no charge for donations. Leashed, well-behaved dogs allowed for the minimal donation of $5. For more information, call 989-9100, email HPArace@gmail.com or visit www.bienifunrun.org to register online.

September TBA, 2012
UP COUNTRY FAIRE - KEALAKEKUA
Games & prizes, spam carving contest, pony rides, ono grinds, keiki ID, face painting, animals to pet, magic, tupperware, gold fish game, children's puppets and coloring, animal balloons, rummage sale, Sugar Shack, palm reading, massage - just good fun! Time: 9 am to 2 pm at Queen Emma Community Center (indoors and out), Christ Church. Cost: Script to play and or purchase goods. For information call 323-3429 or email bjkoala@pendragonhawaii.com

September TBA, 2012
17th ANNUAL LAUHALA CONFERENCE - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
This four-day event offers lauhala weaving workshops with top Hawai'i instructors in a friendly, sharing format. The conference is offered by Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona, a non-profit organization with the mission to perpetuate, preserve and ensure the growth of the traditional art of lauhala weaving. Aunty Elizabeth Maluihi Lee of Kona, who is known for her signature lauhala hats, is the founder of the event and will again be offering instruction. The workshop offers six different sessions: Beginners, Intermediate I and II, Advanced I and II, and Specialties. Students will make different things in each workshop. The workshop closes on Saturday with a buffet dinner, craft fair and fashion show. To find out if student registration is still available, contact 989-6008. For event details, visit http://sites.google.com/site/kalululauhalaokona/.

September TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale on Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please call 322-0077 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL BAMBOO FESTIVAL - PAPAIKOU
The Hawaii Bamboo Society will present its annual bamboo festival from 8am to 3pm at the Papaikou Hongwanji, located on the makai side of Hwy. 19, between mile markers 7 & 8, north of Hilo on the Onomea Drive scenic loop. there will be bamboo demos, vendors, an art contest, local food favorites, etc. For more info, call 315-9870.

September TBA, 2012
HAWAI'I MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ANNUAL BENEFIT LUAU - WAIMEA
Annual Benefit Lu'au at the Anna Ranch Heritage Center benefiting Hawai'i Montessori Schools - Kamuela Campus. For more info about the Lu'au or to find out more about the school's programs please visit www.hawaii montessori.org or call Hawai'i Montessori Schools Kamuela at 885-7683 or Hawai'i Montessori Schools Kona at 329-0700.

September TBA, 2012
KONA TOWN MEETING - OLD AIRPORT PARK EVENTS PAVILION, KONA
The meeting will go from 6-8pm at Maka'eo Events Pavilion at the Old Airport Park. Kona Town Meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. Free to the public. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, go to www.konatownmeeting.org or contact Fred Housel at 331-8602; email Fred@kieleokona.com

September TBA, 2012
KUPUNA HULA FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU
Some of the most experienced and talented kupuna (elders) hula dancers will perform at this very popular annual event. Doors open at 5pm; performances start at 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa. There will also be a Hawaiian crafts fair from 8am-4pm during the festival in the Keauhou III and IV Ballrooms and the foyer of the hotel. For more information, call Kelley at (808) 322-1812 or visit hawaiiislandfestival.org.

September TBA, 2012
MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION! - KAILUA-KONA
West Hawaii's growing community, which includes many individuals of Mexican ancestry, will celebrate with festive costumes, traditional music & dances, as well as the delicious foods of Mexico, by presenting a "Mexican Independence Day Fiesta" at the KMART parking lot from 2-8pm. Free to the public. Door prizes. Bring your families and celebrate! Please bring your own chairs for comfort. For more information or detailed historical information, contact Kawika Marquez at (808) 987-9101, email igdsblues@hawaii.rr.com

September TBA, 2012
WAIMEA PANIOLO PARADE AND HO'OLAULE'A
The 10 am Paniolo Parade will start at "Church Row" and proceed to Waimea Park, featuring princesses on horseback with attendees (complete with "Pooper Scooper" brigades!) decorated with the flowers of their respective islands. The Parade is followed by one of the best crafts show of the year, featuring island foods, games, arts & crafts, Hawaiian products and live entertainment in Waimea Ball Park, from 11 am to 4 pm. Free. Truly a great local family event! Note: 1 hour road closure. Ph: 936-4376. For more information on this and other 30 Days of Aloha events, visit hawaiiislandfestival.org

September TBA, 2012
ART MARKET WEEKEND; A FALL FESTIVAL - VOLCANO VILLAGE
From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A family Fall celebration of the visual and performing arts - a fine arts market featuring original works of photography, painting, jewelry and sculpture available for sale directly from the artists. Activities include live art demonstrations, creative keiki activities, a guided family nature walk, and food booths. Volcano Art Center's Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village, 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd. Free. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

September TBA, 2012
ANNUAL UNITED NATIONS' INTERNATIONAL PEACE DAY CELEBRATION - HONOKA'A
The town of Honoka'a on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island joins the world in observing the United Nations' International Peace Day. This fun, free event for the whole family celebrates peace, compassion and awareness of global interdependence with a colorful parade down Mamane Street at 11am. It will be a "moving stage" with marching bands, Taiko drums, rock & roll, street performers and more. Concurrently, a Peace Day Festival will be taking place at the Honoka'a Sports Complex from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with great local and ethnic foods, artists & crafters, live entertainment and a large community Bon Dance for everyone to join in. For more information, call 808-883-0669, email info@peacedayparade.org or visit www.peacedayparade.org

September 16, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs Men's Glee Club and the Hawai'i County Band, on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

September TBA, 2012
KAILUA KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kailua-Kona Public Library Lanai. Free to the public. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

September TBA, 2012
HOEA (HAWAIIAN 'OHANA FOR EDUCATION IN THE ARTS) MARKET - WAIMEA
Celebrating native Hawaiian fine arts and artists, students of HOEA and other Native Hawaiian artists will exhibit and sell their artwork. Live musical entertainment and hula featuring some of Hawaii's best musicians and halau. Free to the public; 9am-5pm at Kahilu Town Hall behind Parker Ranch Center. For more info, visit www.khf-hoea.org

September TBA, 2012
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR NAMASTE, THE WHITE BENGAL TIGER - HILO
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo will celebrate Namaste's 15th birthday with his traditional "ice cake", featuring 15 bone candles this year. The cake will be presented at 9:30am. At 10:00am, he will receive a birthday present of a huge pillow mouse, stuffed with "Meowie Wowie" catnip. Free cake and ice cream to be served at noon as long as supplies last. A special turkey dinner will be given to Namaste at 3:30pm, winding up the day's festivities. There will be live music all day; Keiki ID's 10am-2pm, keiki games, crafts, a petting zoo from 1:30-2:30pm, face painting and more, offered during the day. Funds raised will be used by Friends of the Zoo for the acquisition and care of zoo animals and for zoo improvements. The Panaewa Zoo's hours are 9am-4pm daily. Free. For more info and to confirm times, call 959-9233 or visit www.hilozoo.com

September TBA, 2012
BREADFRUIT FESTIVAL - AMY B.H. GREENWELL GARDEN, CAPTAIN COOK
Hawaii Homegrown Food Network, the Breadfruit Institute of the National Tropical Botanical Garden and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, are presenting a Breadfruit Festival from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. The Garden will also be holding a dedication for its new visitor center at 12:00 noon on the Festival day. Both events are free and open to the public. The Breadfruit Festival celebrates the rich culture of breadfruit ('ulu) in Hawai'i and the Pacific, raises awareness about the importance of breadfruit for food security, and teaches about the many delicious ways to prepare breadfruit. A highlight of the day will be cooking demonstrations by local celebrity chefs, food booths featuring breadfruit and other local favorites prepared by Hawai'i Island's finest chefs, and the "I Love Breadfruit" Cook-Off Contest where anyone may enter their favorite breadfruit dish to compete for prizes. The Festival will also feature Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultural activities including 'Ulumaika (breadfruit bowling), talks on the culture and history of breadfruit, woodworking, quilting demonstrations, tapa making, 'ulu poi making, and more. Workshops on breadfruit propagation, tree care and maintenance, economic opportunities, the Hunger Initiative and other topics will be given by experts Dr. Diane Ragone and Ian Cole of the Breadfruit Institute of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. An art exhibit will feature the finalists in a fine art contest which will focus on the beauty of breadfruit, and a youth poster contest. Breadfruit trees will be available for sale on festival day, but supplies are limited, and advance purchase for pick up at the festival is encouraged by contacting hooulu@hawaiihomegrown.net. For more information, call 808-960-3727 or email andrea@andreadean.com or visit www.breadfruit.info

September TBA, 2012
LIONS CLUB OF KONA, LIONS FEAST 2012 - OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
The Lions Feast will feature local steak and fresh Keahole lobster, lots of pupu, fresh fruits and desserts, incuding a chocolate fountain. Live entertainment. Details TBA. Contact Don Sasaki 987-1029, Bob Lovin 969-7966, Glenn Uchimura 895-8564, or your favorite Lions Club of Kona member for information. Time: 5:30-9:00 pm at Maka'eo Pavilion at Old Airport Beach Park. For more information, call 987-6249, email jbmkona@gmail.com or visit

September 29, 2012
KA'U COUNTRY FAIR
A one day event, with food, crafts, information and entertainment. Great Silent auction! Time: 9:00 a.m. t o 4:30 p.m. at Kahuku Park, Ocean View. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-939-8700 or email halewood@bigisland.com or visit www.kaufair.webs.com

September TBA, 2012
"TASTE OF THE HAWAIIAN RANGE" AND AGRICULTURE FESTIVAL - HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
The annual event that showcases the isleÕs grass-fed beef industry while bringing together local ranchers, farmers, restaurateurs and eager eaters to celebrate a bounty of locally produced food. While tasting, festival goers can meet Hawai'i's food producers at gaily decorated vendor booths and talk story with the people who make a living growing and producing our food. The event also affords local food producers the opportunity to hookup with isle chefs, wholesale buyers and consumers. Tickets are sold online at http://www.TasteOfTheHawaiianRange.com. For more information, phone 987-3432.

October

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

Thru October 28, 2011
BIG ISLAND WOODWORKERS & ARTISTS INVITATIONAL EXHIBIT - HILO
There will be an opening reception with the artists on October 1st, from 5-7pm. See beautiful creations made with exotic hardwoods from Big Island forests. Furniture, sculpture, ceramics, and some stone sculpture and abstract paintings will also be on display. At the Wailoa Center, weekdays only, 8:30am-4;30pm (Weds., noon-4:30pm). Call 933-0416 for more info.

October 1, 2011
KOHALA COUNTRY FAIR - HAWI
Fun for the whole family. A day filled with art & craft vendors, local entertainment throughout the day, ono food and drinks, and lots of keiki activities. Come and experience the greener, sustainable Kohala Fair. Location TBA. Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call 333-4843, email info@kohalacountryfair.com or visit www.kohalacountryfair.com

October 1, 2011
KONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL - KEALAKEKUA
Celebrate the Portuguese contributions to Hawaii's ranching heritage, with a day of fun activities including live music, saddlemaking demos, paniolo artisans, local food, fresh malasadas, stone oven baked sweetbread, and a petting zoo. Free tours of the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum from 2-3:30pm.

October 1, 2011
GREEN LIVING CELEBRATION AND SOLAR TOUR - HONAUNAU
One Island's Sustainable Living Center and the American Solar Energy Society invite you to come explore and celebrate solar technologies and great green living tools and practices. There will be solar tours and demonstrations, aquaponics and local foods, green building materials & designs, body care and well-being, innovative technologies, music and art, keiki fun tent, plant and green product sale. Registration, exhibits, presentations, music and art will be featured at One Island's organic farm and demonstration center in Honaunau, 9am-4pm. Festival is free! Self-guided, ala carte tours to local nearby Honaunau showcase sites from 10am-4pm include solar powered electric - grid-ties and off-grid, solar hot water - roof and ground mount, solar refrigeration, solar water pumping, aquaponics, bamboo building, bio-fuels, solar land and marine transportation. Tours are a $10 donation per person for as many sites as you want to visit. Learn more and register at www.one-island.org/hawaii or by calling 808-212-3547. To RSVP, email hawaii@one-island.org

October 1, 2011
OPENING RECEPTION FOR "FACES OF HAWAII" - VOLCANO
Hawaii Art Magazine, idspace and Volcano Art Center present a photography exhibition portraying HawaiiÕs faces. Entries selected by Craig F. Walker, staff photographer for The Denver Post & 2010 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Photography, to be compiled into a book, Faces of Hawaii, Vol. IV. Along with the entries selected for the book, an expanded selection of works will be exhibited along with the book debut at Volcano Art CenterÕs Niaulani Campus, 19-4074 Old Volcano rd. in Volcano Village. The exhibit will run thru Oct. 22 from 4-6pm. Free to the public. Call (808) 967-8222 for more information.

October 1, 2011
2nd ANNUAL WORLD PEACE FESTIVAL - HILO
Live entertainment, craft & food vendors, laughter and aloha. Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Moku Ola (Coconut Island). Free to the public. Presented by the Office of the Mayor, produced by the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association, and sponsored in part by Soko Gakkai International. For more information, call 935-8850 or email askalice@downtownhilo.com

October 3, 2011
"HEALTHY PLEASURES; THE NEW SCIENCE OF HAPPINESS" PRESENTATION - KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Guest speaker, David Sobel, MD, MPH, will present this free, educational seminar from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Kona Community Hospital's Conference Room 2. Dr. Sobel is Medical Director of Regional Health Education for Kaiser Permanente Northern California, a primary care physician, and author of eight books including "Healthy Pleasures and The Healthy Mind" and "Healthy Body Handbook". He will lead a lively, humorous and enlightening presentation revolving around the question, "During the past month, have you been a happy person?" Your answer could predict your future health. At this free event, learn how to apply the new science of happiness to measurably improve your life satisfaction and health. A light dinner will be provided. Limited seating is available, so please RSVP by calling 322-6960 or email ebryant@hhsc.org. Visit www.kch.hhsc.org for more info.

October 3-7, 2011
SKEA FALL ART CAMP - HONAUNAU
A dynamic fun filled week in visual arts, theatre, and music for children ages 6-11. Early Bird Special Registration by September 23rd. Time: 8:30am-2:00pm at Society for Kona's Education and Art, Honaunau. Cost: $95/wk. For more information, call 328-9392, email skea@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.skea.org

October 7-9, 2011
HILO WAYFINDING FESTIVAL - IMILOA ASTRONOMY CENTER
Celebrating the feats of Pacific navigators, this event also reinforces ongoing efforts to revive and expand skills and interest in long-distance canoe voyaging. Free talks, workshops, demonstrations and opportunities to learn about wayfinding and the legacy of the Hokulea voyaging canoe. For more info, call 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org

October 7-9, 2011
1st ANNUAL MOKU O KEAWE KAPA FESTIVAL - CAPTAIN COOK
Free, at Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanic Garden. There will be no Garden admission fee during the festival. Many experts in the art of kapa making will demonstrate their skills, including tool and dye making, and bamboo stamp creation. Vendors with hand crafted items, including kapa implements and materials related to kapa making and Hawaiian culture, will be in attendance, selling their wares. Friday: 9am-3pm; Sat. & Sunday: 9am-4pm. On Saturday, the day will begin with a chant and hula done by Halau Kipu'upu'u of Waimea, under the direction of kumu hula Michah Kaohaoli'i, with other music and hula performances scheduled throughout the day. On Sunday, Kahekina's Nahenahe 'Ohana, a group of about 20 'ukulele performers, will play from 11am-noon.

October 7-9, 2011
KALAKAUA BASKETBALL CLINIC - HONOKA'A
Coach Dennis Agena of Kalakaua Basketball and his staff will conduct a 3-day youth basketball clinic Oct. 7-9 at the Honoka'a County Gym. Children ages 6-18 may participate. Players need to bring a basketball, water, and proper playing attire. Registration forms are available at Parks & Recreation offices, Ali'i Sports (FKA Sports Zone) in Waimea, Ted's Garage in Honoka'a, Fig's Mixed Plate in No. Kohala, and Sports Line in Hilo. Time: Friday 6pm-9pm; Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 9am-4pm at Honoka'a County Gym. Cost: $40 for children 11 & under; $60, children 12 & over. For more information, call 960-3545 or email haasports@hawaii.rr.com

October 8, 2011
IRONMAN TRIATHLON - KAILUA-KONA
This ultimate endurance event - a 2.4 mile swim, 112-mile bike and a 26.2 mile run - attracts thousands of the world's best athletes, and thousands of volunteers from the Big Island help make it happen! Watch West Hawaii Today newspaper for updates on the event.

October 8, 2011
AN EVENING WITH CYRIL PAHINUI AND PETER MOON - VOLCANO
Cyril Pahinui, son of music legend, Gabby Pahinui, is one of Hawai'i's most gifted guitarists and singers. Cyril has twice played at Carnegie Hall, has contributed to three Grammy Award-winning albums, received several Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, and recorded on more than 35 Hawaiian musical releases. As a slack key guitarist, CyrilÕs technical virtuosity, rhythmic adaptations, and instrumental harmonics impart the soul of Hawaiian music, and his beautiful, emotive, and well-recognized voice renders an intimate picture of his Pacific island home. He will be performing with another Hawaiian music legend, Peter Moon, who is perhaps best known for the incredibly popular and influential "Sunday Manoa" recordings. Kilauea Theater in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Tickets $30 on sale August 1 to VAC Members, August 20 to general public. No reserved seating. To order, call David at (808) 967-8222, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or email concerts@volcanoartcenter.org

October 9, 2011
HAWAII ISLAND WRITERS ASSOCIATION 'OHANA DAY; A CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
This event will be free to the public, for the purpose of promoting "Community Empowerment through the Arts". There will be a concert, art, music, writing and craft vendors, food, educational booths and a writing & art contest for keiki. Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm. Anyone interested in performing or having a vendor booth should contact duke@twotonproductions.com. Free to the public. For more, information call 430-0038, email duke@twotonproductions.com or visit www.hawaiiislandwriters.org

October 9, 2011
HONUAPO PARK CELEBRATION - KA'U
Ka 'Ohana O Honuapo, a non-profit, tax exempt organization in Na'alehu, celebrates another year of stewardship of Honuapo Park, with Hawaiian music and food from 1-4pm at Whittington Beach Park. Everyone is encouraged to bring their acoustic musical instruments to this free, family event and join Keoki Kahumoku in an acoustic music jam afternoon. Ka 'Ohana will be offering $5 chili and rice bowls, drinks and baked goods to raise funds for improvement at the park. Ka 'Ohana board members will be on hand to discuss new plans for restoring native bird habitat in Honuapo's wetlands.

October 13, 2011
"STRINGS AND SWEETS" BAROQUE MUSIC CONCERT - KEALAKEKUA
Ensemble Mirable, one of America's leading baroque ensembles, will play 17th century Italian baroque music in an intimate setting with time to to talk story with the musicians about their music and instruments over dessert & 100% Kona coffee. Baroque violin, baroque guitar, viola da gamba and harpsichord. Time: 7 PM at Christ Church Episcopal's Queen Emma Community Center on Konawaena Road just below Konawaena High School. Cost: $35.00. For more information, call 960-3650, email info@earlymusichawaii.com or visit www.earlymusichawaii.com

October 14, 2011
RENEGADE SILKSCREEN WORKSHOP - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Shez Arvedon takes traditional printing methods into her own hands! This workshop will introduce basic screen printing techniques and move into experimenting with a variety of mediums. Students will learn how to stretch their own screens, transform and combine methods, textures and images to create unique and spontaneous works of art on fabric. Bring new and used clothing, towels, pillow cases and any clean fabric items to use as your canvas. You can even print the T-shirt off your own back if you wish. Please come with a sketchbook of images, patterns and ideas you want to work with. Time: 10:00am - 4pm. Cost: $95; Supply Fee: $25. For more information, call 322-3362, email donkeymill@gmail.com or visit http://www.donkeymillartcenter.org/

October 15, 2011
KONA OKTOBERFEST - HONOKOHAU HARBOR
Kona Oktoberfest, hosted by the Rotary Club of Kona Mauka, will feature beer & brats, polka demonstrations, live music by the Dave Lawrence Band, beer provided by the Kona Brewing Co. and much, much more! All monies will go to local scholarships. Enjoy this German tradition! Time: 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Honokohau Harbor, Kona. $20 advance tickets, $25 at the door. For more info, or to purchase tickets, contact Darlene at 324-0069.

October 15, 2011
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next Book Sale from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or call 322-0077.

October 15, 2011
METROPOLITAN OPERA HD LIVE BROADCAST - KONA
The first of 11 live performances beamed via satellite from The Met in New York to Kona at 1:00 pm on Saturdays from October 2011 until April 2012 at Hollywood's Makalapua Stadium Cinemas. The first performance will be "Anna Bolena" by Donizetti. It is the story of Anne Boleyn who is driven insane by her philandering husband, King Henry VIII. The opera will be sung in Italian, with English subtitles. Admission: $24; $22 for seniors; $20 for students. For more information, call 329-7133, email sscadden@hawaii.rr.com or visit Metropolitan Opera HD Live.

October 15, 2011
KONA CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Evening gala from 6-10pm. Silent auction, chocolate competition, live music featuring Salsa Latinos and Cyril Pahinui. Tickets $35 advance/$40 door; Aloha Circle reserved seats, $100 advance. Tickets available at Kailua Candy Co., Kona Wine Mkt, Kona Stories Bookstore, CD Wizard, Without Boundaries, and Keoki's Coffee & Donkey Balls. Online tickets and info: www.konachocolatefestival.com or call (808) 987-8722.

October TBA, 2012
24th ANNUAL TALK STORY FESTIVAL & 'OHANA STYLE POTLUCK - HOLUALOA
The Donkey Mill Art Center is proud to present a Talk Story Festival and 'Ohana Style Potluck Storytellers will enchant the audience with modern fairy tales, morality tales, peace stories, historical characterizations and personal tall tales. For more info, email donkeymill@gmail.com or visit http://www.donkeymillartcenter.org/

October TBA, 2012
ANNUAL TASTE OF HILO
Featuring range fed beef from Hawaii Beef, prepared by Beth Ann Nishijima of Nori's, and more than 35 participating restaurants, chefs, pastry chefs, bakers, and beverage suppliers. Time: 1-3pm at Sangha Hall, Hilo. Sponsored by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii. Tickets may be ordered by calling the Chamber at 934-0177 or by emailing jccih@jccih.org. For more information, call 987-8328 or email miyahira@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.jccih.org

October TBA, 2012
KAILUA KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Free to the public. Join in a lively discussion, give your input for the club's upcoming reading list, and share light refreshments. New members are welcome. For more information, contact Barbara Sosna at 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

October TBA, 2012
ANNUAL SPOOKTACULAR - PAHOA
The HAAS Theater Arts Program and the Arts & Science Center (ASC) proudly present the Annual Spooktacular. This is a drug and alcohol free event featuring haunted houses (age restrictions apply) and a Keiki Walk, in addition to games, food and entertainment. This event is open to the public as a fun, safe Halloween alternative. Time: 6 to 9:30 p.m. at 15-1397 Homestead Road Pahoa (off the Pahoa bypass). Free entry/$6 per attraction; $1 off w/canned food item. For more information, call 965-3730 or 756-3004, or email macb347@aol.com

October TBA, 2012
KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL'S 7TH ANNUAL HOPE EVENT - KEALAKEKUA
Kona Community Hospital's annual Hope Event will take place from 1 to 4 pm at Kona Community Hospital's Radiation Oncology Clinic. This event is in honor of all cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and their families, to promote cancer awareness. There will be live music, food and drinks, volunteer services such as haircuts, massage and nails, informational booths, acceptance of hair donations and lots more. It is a free community event and everyone is welcome to attend. Please contact 322-6960 for more information. Free to the public. For more information, call 322-6960, email ebryant@hhsc.org or visit www.kch.hhsc.org

October TBA, 2012
LA 'IKE DAY CELEBRATION AT KAHALU'U BEACH PARK, KONA
La 'Ike Day celebration of culture is presented by The Kohala Center and sponsored by the Hawai'i Tourism Authority. The Kahalu'u ReefTeach team will share why coral reefs are important to the island way of life and update participants on current stewardship projects at the bay. Learn lei making, and join in games for both adults and children and win fun prizes, and enjoy ono food and Hawaiian music too! Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kahalu'u Beach Park main pavilion. Free to the public. For more information, call (808) 895-1010 or email cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org. or visit http://www.kohalacenter.org

October TBA, 2012
KOHALA MTN. FARM PUMPKIN PATCH AND FUNDRAISER - KOHALA
The Kohala Mountain Pumpkin Patch will be open for picking ONE weekend ONLY, from 9am to 5pm. Pumpkin picking, games, face painting, cotton candy, keiki activities and music. Bring a blanket and a picnic for a day of family fun. A costume contest and raffle with fabulous prizes for young and old will be held at 2pm. Sunday, pumpkin picking from 9am-5pm or until sold out. (Get there early, as pumpkins will sell out.) Location: Kohala Mtn. Road between mile markers 12 & 13, makai side. For more information, call 345-6323 or email stacyhasegawa808@gmail.com or lmdhawaii@yahoo.com

October TBA, 2012
21st ANNUAL PUMPKIN PATCH - WAIMEA
This fun-filled family event features a giant pumpkin patch with over 500 pumpkins to choose from, thrilling live entertainment, an amazing silent auction, delicious food booths, a mouth-watering chili cook-off, exciting activities, games, and prizes. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Hawaii Preparatory Academy's Upper Campus. For more information, call 315-0591 or email smacy926@hotmail.com or visit www.hpapumpkinpatch.com

October TBA, 2012
HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY'S ANNUAL HALLOWEEN PET WALK - HILO
Pet Walk encourages pet owners to exercise themselves & their pets during this fun, family-friendly free Halloween weekend event that includes contests and prizes. Walkers with or without pets are urged to raise pledges to support Hawaii Island Humane Society. Registration is free and begins at 8:00 a.m.; Walk begins at 9:00 a.m. at Queen Lili'uokalani Park, Hilo. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-8002, email exec.dir@hihs.org or visit www.FirstGiving.com/HIHSPetWalk

October TBA, 2012
WAIMEA TOWN MARKET'S ANNUAL HALLOWEEN HOUNDS PARADE
The public is invited to bring its doggy friends in costume to the popular farmers market at Parker School, where the costumed pets will compete for ribbons and treats. Market vendors will also decorate their booths and themselves in honor of the day. The Market is open 8am till 1pm. For more info, call 938-4540.

October 21, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i, on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

October TBA, 2012
WAIKOLOA VILLAGE OUTDOOR CIRCLE'S ANNUAL PLANT SALE
The sale, which will include herbs, flowering plants, palms, bamboo, ferns, ground covers, fruit and flowering trees, white pineapple, banana, succulents, orchids, and more, will take place from 8am-10pm at the Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School complex. Call 895-4679 for more info.

October TBA, 2012
"CHICKEN SKIN TALK STORY" AT PANIOLO HERITAGE CENTER - WAIMEA
The sharing of Halloween-themed paniolo and Hawaii stories. Attendees should wear warm clothing. Soft drinks, hot cocoa and crackers will be available. This free event is family oriented. Donations are welcome. For more info, visit paniolopreservation.org's website.

October TBA, 2012
HAWAII ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY'S ANNUAL HALLOWEEN PET WALK - KONA
Registration is free and begins at 8:00 a.m., Walk begins at 9:00 a.m. at Hale Halawai. HIHS Pet Walks encourage pet owners to exercise themselves and their pets during these fun, family-friendly Halloween weekend events. Contests and prizes add to the day's planned festivities. Walkers with or without pets are urged to raise pledges and support Hawaii Island Humane Society. Raise $50 or more in pledges & get a free tee shirt! Visit www.FirstGiving.com/HIHSPetWalk to create your own or team fundraising page. For more info, call the Kona Shelter at 329-1175. Contests & prizes.

November

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

November TBA, 2012
7th ANNUAL MOKU O KEAWE HULA FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Halau from Hawai'i, Japan, and the U.S. mainland shine on the big stage at Queen's Bowl at Waikoloa Beach Resort to compete for top honors in ancient hula kahiko and modern hula 'auana forms. During the day will be opportunities to join in-depth cultural workshops in dance, crafting of music implements, ti leaf skirts and more, and an excursion to an historic cultural site. A made-in-Hawai'i Marketplace will feature lei of various styles, hula implements, aloha wear & jewelry, fine arts, woodworks, and woven crafts from 8am-5pm Friday and Saturday.

November TBA, 2012
12th ANNUAL BLACK & WHITE NIGHT - HILO
Dress up or Dress down, but dress in black & white! Treasure Hunt Game; Costume Contest with cash prizes; Live Music; Face Painting; Great Prizes & Giveaways! Free parking! Free Music and Dancing in the lobby of the historic Palace Theater from 6pm-Midnight! The event takes place in Downtown Hilo, from Bayfront to Kapiolani Street and from Ponahawai Street to Wailuku Drive. Time: 5-10pm. Produced by the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association. Call (808) 935-8850, email askalice@downtownhilo.com or visit www.downtownhilo.com for more information, or to request auxiliary aid. For more info, call 345-9364 or visit http://www.mokif.com

November TBA, 2012
KONA COFFEE CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Hawaii's oldest food fest features over 30 events, kicking off with the International Lantern Parade. There will be a variety of events thruout the festival, including art exhibits, tastings, a cupping competition, a coffee picking competition, coffee recipe cooking contest, farm tours, sporting events and more. For more info, call 808/326-7820 or visit http://www.konacoffeefest.com

November TBA, 2012
HOLUALOA VILLAGE COFFEE TASTING AND ART STROLL - KONA
The Coffee Stroll is an annual event of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Nearly two dozen farms' coffee will be featured at Holualoa's unique art galleries and shops. Gifts, a keiki art contest, live music and more. Free parking at Holualoa School and the Catholic church.

November TBA, 2012
ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION/PLANT GIVEAWAY - AMY B.H. GREENWELL GARDEN, CAPT. COOK
Free trees while supplies last (limit 2 per family), demonstrations, expert planting advice, and more. The garden is 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona. For more info, call 323-3318.

November TBA, 2012
WEST HAWAI'I SEED EXCHANGE - AMY GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN, CAPT. COOK
The annual seed exchange coincides with the garden's annual Arbor Day Plant Give-Away. Farmers and gardeners are invited to bring saved seed, cuttings, huli, and corms of food crops that grow well in home gardens and on farms. Please bring envelopes to gather seed, and be sure to name the known varieties that you bring. The goal of this yearly gathering is to network seed among home gardeners and local farmers. Coming together to share our knowledge and seed varieties encourages home production and food security for West Hawai'i. If you have not yet started a home garden, please come and meet experienced gardeners, and talk story about locally adapted varieties of plants you can grow to feed your family. Free to the public. For more information, call Diana Duff at 887-6411 or email hokudi@aol.com

November TBA, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
This outdoor presentation of traditional hula and chant featuring a local halau, will take place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Audience is encouraged to bring sitting mat and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30Am to 1:30PM on the gallery porch. Free; park entrance fees apply. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

November TBA, 2012
WINE, CHEESE, CHOCOLATE & MORE! BENEFIT - HILO
Hilo Medical Center Foundation's 10th Annual Wine, Cheese, Chocolates & More Fundraiser will feature delectable chocolates; superior cheeses; fine wines with distinct properties, aromas & flavors; and a magnificent array of delicious pupus and appetizers. The event will also host a live auction, a wine and cheese auction. Tickets are available at the Hilo Medical Center Foundation office, Grapes, and Kadota's Liquor. For more information, call 935-2957, email dengevold@hhsc.org, or visit www.hilomedicalcenterfoundation.org

November TBA, 2012
KAHUMOKU 'OHANA HAWAIIAN MUSIC & LIFESTYLE CAMP FREE CONCERT - PAHALA
Featuring the well-known Hawaiian artists musical staff of the annual camp. Bring mats or lawn chairs. Coolers are welcome, but absolutely NO alcohol will be allowed. This is a drug and alcohol-free event. For more info, contact Keoki Kahumoku at 960-8385 or visit http://www.konaweb.com/special/KahumokuConcert.jpg

November TBA, 2012
42nd ANNUAL KONA COFFEE CULTURAL FESTIVAL PARADE
Starts at 5pm, from Royal Kona Resort to King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Festival goers are invited to historic Kailua Village to watch the colorful floral floats, marching bands, and as the sun goes down, lanterns that light up the parade route as the Festival celebrates Kona's heritage with groups in colorful ethnic costumes. Visit konacoffeefest.com.

November TBA, 2012
42nd ANNUAL MAKAHIKI CONCERT - SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT
Featuring well-known Hawaiian musicians, with hula.

November TBA, 2012
GALA PARTY & GOLF CLASSIC FUNDRAISER - KEALAKEKUA
This will be the 11th Annual Gala Party & Golf Classic at Hokulia, a fundraising benefit for the Kona Hospital Foundation's Buy-A-Bed Project at Kona Community Hospital. The Gala Party includes superb silent & live auctions, musical entertainment and fabulous food station feasts. For more information, call 322-4587, email skinsey@khfhawaii.org or visit www.khfhawaii.org

November TBA, 2012
KAILUA-KONA LIBRARY BOOK CLUB MEETING
Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kailua-Kona Public Library Lanai. Free to the public. This month's selection is "The Lacuna", by Barbara Kingsolver. Join in a lively discussion, give your input for reading in the upcoming year, and share light refreshments. New members are welcome. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

November TBA, 2012
KONA TOWN MEETING - OLD AIRPORT PARK EVENTS PAVILION, KONA
The meeting will take place from 6-8pm at Maka'eo Events Pavilion at the Old Airport Park. Kona Town Meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. Free to the public. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, go to www.konatownmeeting.org or contact Fred Housel at 331-8602; email Fred@kieleokona.com

November 18, 2012
"KOKUA KAILUA" HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT AND VILLAGE STROLL - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music event featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and the Hawai'i County Band on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. For more info about the Village Stroll, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit www.kvbid.org

November TBA, 2012
6th ANNUAL "E MAU ANA KA HULA"; A TRIBUTE TO KING DAVID KALAKAUA - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
With respect to the King who was Hawai'i's "Merrie Monarch" and responsible for the resurgence in popularity of hula, hula traditions as presented by Kumu Hula (hula teachers) and students from Hawai'i, Japan and Europe will be honored and shared. Each school will present their art of style and tradition in either Hula Kahiko (ancient hula) or Hula 'Auana (modern hula), showcasing the integrity and quality of traditional hula steps, expressions, creativity, costume adornments and the stories that support the hula traditions. For more details about the workshops, please visit www.emauanakahula.org. Space is limited - please register by email at administrator@nawaiiwiola.org, or call 640-1384.

November TBA, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its monthly Book Sale from 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Proceeds from these sales help provide funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. Volunteers are needed to assist with the sale and preparations. If you find yourself willing and able, please call 322-0077 or email FOLK@folkhawaii.com

November TBA, 2012
2nd ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
"Makahiki" is a designated period of time following the harvesting season in Hawai'i when wars and battles were ceased, tributes and taxes were paid by each district to the ruling chief, sporting competitions between villages/districts were organized and festive events were held. In that tradition, on the makai lawn of Keauhou Beach Resort's Royal Luau Grounds, there will be a Laka ceremony at 8am and a Lono ceremony at noon. Also, during the day there will be a lomi lomi presentation, la'au lapa'au (a Hawaiian martial art) presentation, agricultural demonstations, food & cooking demonstrations, makahiki games , lauhala weaving, tapa making, nose flute making, poi pounding, awa, ocean and Hawaiian shells education, Kahalu'u Beach/reef education, healing arts, plants, crafts vendors and more.
Come join in!

November TBA, 2012
ARC OF KONA'S 16th ANNUAL BAZAAR AND CUSTOM CAR/BIKE SHOW
All money spent at the annual fundraiser supports people living with disabilities so they may successfully participate in their own communities. Arts and crafts vendors, silent auction, ono food, entertainment all day, Trash & Treasure booth, custom cars and motorcycles. Family fun. Free to the public. Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm at Konawaena School Road, Kealakekua. For more information, call 323-2626 or email gretchen@arcofkona.org or visit www.arcofkona.org

November TBA, 2012
SHERATON KEAUHOU BAY RESORT HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR - KONA
Holiday shopping for those special loved ones. Strictly juried, & free from imports & mass produced, commercial products. Locally made treasures such as fine art paintings, prints, hand carved slate engravings, jewelry - both traditional & contemporary, formal to casual - ornaments, tropical wood bowls, blown glass, hairsticks, hurricane lamps, greeting cards, handmade quilts, pillows, & dolls. Entertainment too. Time: 9 AM to 7 PM in the Sheraton Convention Center. Free to the public. For more information, call 326-4152.

November TBA, 2012
KEA'AU SEED EXCHANGE
Bring your own pre-cleaned, pest-free, non-GMO and non-invasive seeds or just come and check out our seed stock! Representatives from Ant Lab, Public Seed Initiative and master gardeners will be available. Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Kea'au Youth Business Center. Free to the public. For more information, call 966-6354, email kybc808@gmail.com or visit www.kybc808.com

November TBA 2012 thru January TBA, 2013
INVITATIONAL WREATH EXHIBIT - VOLCANO ART CENTER
Volcano Art Center Gallery at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will feature wreaths by Gallery artists, in a wide variety of media, materials, and techniques. Highly creative concepts - a unique collection of one-of-a-kind wreaths, from the whimsical to the traditional. 9am-5pm. Information: 808/967-7565, or at www.volcanoartcenter.org

November TBA, 2012
MEET & EAT THANKSGIVING DINNER - KAILUA-KONA
The Kona Task Force on Feeding the Hungry's "Meet & Eat" program, a Thanksgiving Dinner with all-the-trimmings, will take place at 5:30PM at the Kealakehe Intermediate School cafeteria. The free meal is open to the public, and there will be live music performances. The Kona Task Force on Feeding the Hungry is a community-based volunteer organization and all funds are directed to supplies and the food that make up the meals they serve. Through generous donations, they are able to serve the community. For more information, please contact Margo Takata at 960-1392 or email mdtakata@hawaii.rr.com

November TBA, 2012
30th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREASURES ART, GIFT, COLLECTIBLES & CRAFT FAIR - KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL, KAILUA-KONA
Friday from 9am to 6pm; Saturday from 9am to 5pm in the hotel ballrooms. Local vendors and vendors from all over the state, silent auction, validated parking, drawing for prizes. For more information call 808/325-5155 or email Dagoose@hawaii.rr.com

November TBA, 2012
10th ANNUAL HILO CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
Featuring arts, crafts, and holiday gifts made By local Hawaii Island residents. Where: Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium - 350 Kalanikoa St, Hilo, HI 96720. Time: from 9am-3pm; $1 Admission Fee to support the Waiakea Lions Club. Hawaii Island Food Basket will also be accepting donations and canned goods. Hosted by Hilo Ben Franklin Crafts. For more information, call 935-0005, email info@benfranklinhawaii.com or visit http://www.bfcraftclub.com/events/9th-annual-hilo-bfc-christmas-craft-fair

November TBA - December TBA, 2012
ANNUAL "LIGHT UP A LIFE" EVENT - HILO
You are invited to visit one of the Trees of Remembrance located at the two inside entrances at Macy's Prince Kuhio Plaza during mall hours to hang an ornament bearing the name of a friend or family member who has died. Anyone may place a commemorative ornament on a Hospice Tree of Remembrance. Ornaments are available at the information tables adjacent to the trees. A donation of $10 is suggested, although none is required. Donations will be used to directly benefit hospice patients and their families, helping to provide compassionate care for our community. For more information, call 969-1733, email hospice@hospiceofhilo.org or visit www.hospiceofhilo.org

November TBA, 2012
VOLCANO VILLAGE ARTISTS HUI ANNUAL ART STUDIO TOUR & SALE
Over Thanksgiving weekend, members of the Volcano Village Artists Hui will host their 24th annual Art Studio Tour & Sale. Visitors are invited to meet the artists in their studios and see artworks in a variety of media. Pottery, hand blown art glass, sculpture and fiber art, as well as photographs, paintings, and block prints will be on display and available for purchase. Maps to the artists' studios will be available at local businesses & galleries in Volcano Village and at www.VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at eight Artists' Studios in Volcano Village. For more information, call 987-3472, email eherb@hawaii.rr.com or visit or visit www.VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com

November TBA, 2012
DONKEY MILL ART CENTER'S 6th ANNUAL ART AUCTION
The Donkey Mill Art Center in Holualoa will proudly celebrate its 16th Anniversary with a benefit art auction. Island residents and visitors are invited to join local artists for an evening of art, spirits and epicurean delights. A limited number of tickets are available. The Donkey Mill Art Center is located at 78-6670 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa. For more information, call 322-3362, email donkeymill@gmail.com or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

November TBA, 2012
NA LIMA HANA HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR - HILTON WAIKOLOA GRAND BALLROOM
Artists and crafters from around the island will be featured at Hilton Na Lima Hana's annual Crafts & Collectibles Fair. For more information, call 886-2885 or 886-2884, or email nalima.hana@hilton.com.

December

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

December TBA, 2012
5th ANNUAL CHARITY FUR BALL - HAPUNA BEACH PRINCE HOTEL, SOUTH KOHALA
Benefit for Kohala Animal Relocation and Education Service (KARES), which embraces the "no kill" philosophy. Proceeds will fund spay and neuter programs, as well as pay to rescue and rehabilitate homeless dogs and cats in our community. Fur Ball proceeds will also be used to purchase pet food and provide veterinary care for those in desperate need. Dance the night away to favorite music from the 60's and early 70's (DeeJay J.E.Orozco, host of KBIG FM "Saturday Morning Class Reunion Show"), cash bar, 60's food and ice cream sundaes for purchase, Cruze through the silent auction. Dress to kill (or "no kill") and wear your favorite 60's outfit if you wish. From 7:00 to 11:00 pm at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel's Grand Ballroom. Advance tickets are $45 per person ($50 at the door). For ticket purchases, donations or special room rates at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, call the Fur Ball Hotline at (808) 333-6299. Tickets can also be purchased at www.kohalaanimal.org

December 8, 2012
CHRISTMAS AT THE FAIRMONT ORCHID; DINING WITH THE CHEFS
Presented by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Kona Kohala Chefs Assn., the festive gala benefits local culinary education. The annual event provides scholarship assistance to local student culinarians and is also raising money to equip the instruction kitchens at the future Hawai'i Community College at Palamanui. Over 20 top Hawai'i chefs and confectioners use primarily locally sourced ingredients to prepare tantalizing cuisine - all accompanied by handcrafted ales, wines and 100 percent Kona coffee. Attendees can enjoy live jazz under the stars and an exciting live auction of exclusive, private dinner parties and receptions professionally hosted by local chefs. Also available by auction are specially crafted gingerbread houses that are perfect for holiday decorating. Designed by West Hawaii Community College students under the supervision of pastry chef instructor Fernand Guiot, the standout gingerbread creations have included Polynesian-themed hale and Hawaii landmarks like Hulihe'e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church. Ticket prices remain $75. Details on ticket sales locations and an event rate at The Fairmont TBA. For updates, visit "Christmas at The Fairmont-Dining with the Chefs" on facebook. For more info, visit http://www.fairmont.com/orc/ChristmasatTheFairmont

December TBA, 2012
ANNUAL NA MAKUA INVITATIONAL CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR - HILO
Big Island designers, Nelson and Kainoa Makua, will be relocating their annual Na Makua Invitational Christmas Gift Fair to the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium. Time: Friday 5-9 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM. Free to the public. The new location will offer twice the amount of vendors along with 'ono food concessions, entertainment and prize drawings throughout the event. Nelson Makua, who is also the director for the Merrie Monarch Invitational Hawaiian Arts Fair, brings the same high quality and standards to his Christmas Fair in selecting the finest art and crafts by Hawaii's best artists that make great Christmas gifts, with special consideration given to the uniqueness, quality and craftsmanship of the product. All of the applicants' products are screened and must be made in Hawaii. For more information, or if you are interested in becoming a vendor, contact Nelson or Kainoa Makua at (808) 966-4647 or (808) 969-7985, email puna@namakua.com, or you can download the application online at www.namakua.com

December TBA, 2012
"MYSTERY OF THE CHRISTMAS STAR" PROGRAM - IMILOA ASTRONOMY CENTER, HILO
Annual holiday planetarium show, featuring questions and events that may have prompted the vision of the bright star in the skies at Christmas-time; a possible scientific explanation for the star the Wise Men followed to reach the baby Jesus. Tickets available at front desk, or by phone at 969-9703, during regular hours: 9am-5pm, Tuesdays - Sundays. Imiloa Center of Hawaii is located at the Univ. of Hawaii at Hilo Science and Technology Park at 600 Imiloa Place, off Komohana and Nowelo streets. For more info, visit www.imiloahawaii.org.

December TBA, 2012
CHRISTMAS AT HULIHE'E PALACE - KAILUA-KONA
The 3rd Annual Christmas at Hulihe'e Palace, a benefit for Habitat for Humanity and the Daughters of Hawaii. Proceeds from the evening's benefit will help raise important monies to build simple, decent, and affordable homes for low-income West Hawaii families and help with on-going restoration and preservation efforts at Hulihe'e Palace. Tickets are $100 per person. Special reserved tables are also available. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.huliheechristmas.org, call 808-756-8928 or email pr@habitatwesthawaii.org

December TBA, 2012
HAWAII MONTESSORI SCHOOLS WINTERFEST - KEAUHOU SHOPPING CENTER, KONA
Families can kick off the holiday season with a day of craftmaking, games, face painting, music and more at the Annual WinterFest at Keauhou Shopping Center Courtyard. For more information, call 936-1857 or visit www.hawaiimontessori.org

December 16, 2012
"KOKUA KAILUA" HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY PERFORMANCE AND VILLAGE STROLL/FREE CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men's glee club and Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and his Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawai'i on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy outdoor cafe's and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Special kama'aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. For more info about the Village Stroll, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit www.kvbid.org

December TBA, 2012
HOLUALOA MUSIC AND LIGHT FESTIVAL, KONA
From 5:30-8:30pm. Witness the lighting of the town Christmas tree, listen to various musicians perform Christmas music thru the evening at stages around the village, and receive treats from the galleries and shops in this charming little artists' colony in the middle of Kona coffee country. Santa will show up too! For information, call Holualoa Village Assn. at 808/322-8484, or visit www.holualoahawaii.com

December TBA, 2012
TWILIGHT CHRISTMAS PARADE - WAIMEA
From 5:30-6:45pm. Hot foods will be served along the parade route whose sale will benefit the Lokahi Giving Tree. Pre-parade, there will be crafts shows with entertainment during the day at KTA's Waimea Center (10am-4pm) and Parker Ranch Center (8am-4:30pm) and Thelma Parker Gym (10am-4pm).

December TBA, 2012
PARADISE ART STUDIO TOUR - PUNA
The district of Puna's Hawaiian Paradise Park residential area will feature many local artists in studios around the area. Appreciate art in the atmosphere in which it was created. Some unique types of art featured are locally made and braided bracelets, lava pots, native plant dyed fabrics, recycled art, woods and furniture, hand blown glass, jewelry, fashion and clothing, quilting, doll art, 'ukulele, and more. 10% of sales go to support art in local high schools. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Free to the public. For more information call (808) 982-9577 or email paradiseglassworks@gmail.com or visit www.paradisestudiotour.com

December TBA, 2012
KONA POTTERS GUILD ANNUAL HOLIDAY SALE - HONAUNAU
The Guild is located on the lower level of SKEA (Society for Kona's Education and Art), between mile markers 105 and 106 on Mamalahoa Highway south of Captain Cook. The charm of Kona coffee country surrounds their quaint workshop within a building that was once a Japanese schoolhouse. The studio will be open after the sale throughout December. For more info, call 328-9665 or email maukafire@gmail.com

December TBA, 2012
ANNUAL POINSETTIA SALE/BENEFIT - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
6" and 8" pots of poinsettias in a variety of colors, and 2 gallon pots of winter rose and red poinsettias, will be for sale between 9am and 2pm. This is a benefit for the Kona Business and Professional Women's high school scholarship fund and its Grant for Success, which is awarded to someone needing help with reentry into the workforce. There will also be crafts and jams from Kealaokamalamalama Church for sale at the event.

December TBA, 2012
5th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS JUBILEE CRAFT FAIR - KAILUA-KONA
Mokuaikaua Youth Ministry Annual Christmas Jubilee Craft Fair featuring local crafters, steak fry plates, baked goods, fruits and vegetables, plant sale and free activities for the keiki. Vendor applications are still being accepted. On the Mokuaikaua Church Grounds, Ali'i Drive. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-0655.

December TBA, 2012
KAILUA-KONA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE
Kailua-Kona's Christmas Parade will be starting at 5pm (till 7pm). Theme: Na Mele 'O Kalikimaka (The Songs of Christmas). Start: Kona's Kekuaokalani Gym along Kuakini down Palani, along Ali'i to Walua Road just past Coconut Grove Marketplace. Aunty Elaine Watai will be the Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade 2011 Grand Marshal. She has long served the community, establishing the Kealakehe Neighborhood Watch and being instrumental in the Kealakehe Meet and Eat program, offering food to hungry community members. There wil be floats, lights, music and candy! Announcers at West Hawaii Today (Santa from 4:30pm till parade time), ReMixx Bistro (Kuakini), King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, Emma's Square by Boston Basil's (entertainment at 3:45pm), Pancho & Lefty's (holiday trivia at 4:45pm), Uncle Billy's Hotel (Kimo's), Waterfront Row, Island Lava Java, Humpy's Big Island Alehouse at Coconut Grove MarketPlace. For more information, call 990-4785, email stone@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.paradesinkona.com

December TBA, 2012
WAIKOLOA VILLAGE CHRISTMAS PARADE & KEIKI CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Parade starts at 10am, begins at the top of Paniolo Road in Waikoloa Village and ends at the Waikoloa School where there will be free pictures with Santa, free hot dogs for the keiki, many food booths & craft vendors, entertainment including magic show and Zoo Choo train rides, and live music. Interested in entering the Parade? Please call Sue McCord at 989-0215. Food or craft vendor? Please call Lorna at 960-1941.

December TBA, 2012
KEA'AU CHRISTMAS PARADE
Begins at 5:30pm. There will be crafts, food booths, and entertainment thruout the day. Call Kea'au Village Market for more info at 896-1236.

December TBA, 2012
HOLIDAY LIGHTS CELEBRATION - VOLCANO VILLAGE
A family event sure to delight youngsters and those young at heart, this colorful Christmas tree and light display will feature a children's tree ornament contest, plus entertainment. Children are invited to create a unique handmade ornament to be displayed outdoors on the Volcano community Christmas tree throughout the holiday season. Other festivities include an 'ohi'a yule log hunt, caroling, marshmallow roasting, entertainment by community youth, light refreshments, and a visit by Santa Claus at Volcano Art Center's Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Road [19-4074 Old Volcano Rd.]). Free (calabash donations welcome) Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more info.

December TBA, 2012
CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS IN MUSIC - THE KONA FESTIVALE CHORALE
The Chorale will present its annual Christmas concert, featuring both traditional and contemporary holiday music. The popular concerts will be staged at the festively decorated King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel ballroom. Saturday at 7:30pm; Matinee' Sunday at 3pm. For tickets and more event information, please call the Kona Festivale Chorale Office at 331-1115, email kfchoral@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.konafestivalechorale.org

December TBA, 2012
HAWAII ARTS, CRAFTS, GIFTS & FOOD CHRISTMAS FAIR
Waimea's 21st Annual Hawaii Arts, Crafts, Gifts & Food Christmas Fair will be held at the Thelma Parker Gym in Waimea. Door prizes throughout the event. Unique Christmas Gifts and crafts directly from the vendors. For more information, call (808) 981-0518 or email hawaiiartsandcrafts@yahoo.com

December TBA, 2012
NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE - HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Featuring a local halau, from 10:30-11:30AM. This outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near Volcano Art Center Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. On the same day, there are hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the VAC Gallery porch. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply.

December TBA, 2012
HANDEL'S "MESSIAH" COMMUNITY CONCERT - SHERATON KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
The Kona Music Society's Adult Chorus & Orchestra. Visit www.konamusicsociety.org for more info.

December TBA, 2012
KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
The Book Club will meet from 11am to 1pm on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. For more information, call 325-5445, email FOLK@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

December 24, 2012
MOKUAIKAUA CHURCH'S CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE - KAILUA-KONA
Hawaii's first Christian church (established in 1820) will hold its Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, featuring the annual "Silent Night" hula during the candlelight portion of the service. All are welcome to this beautiful celebration of Jesus' birthday. For more information, call 329-0655 or visit http://www.mokuaikaua.org/#/upcoming-events/christmas-program

December TBA, 2012
MOCHI POUNDING AND KADOMATSU MAKING - DONKEY MILL ART CENTER, HOLUALOA
Come and learn a Japanese tradition of preparing for the New Year. Kadomatsu, made of bamboo and pine branches, is placed at the entrance to homes to greet the New Year. Mochi, a rice cake delicacy served on New Year's Day, symbolizes the many blessings that the family will receive in the new year. Guests will make a Kadomatsu for their home and taste the delicate cakes while talking story with new and old friends. Children are welcome to help in the creative process. Please RSVP. For more information, call 322-3362, email hfac.dmac@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org

December TBA, 2012
15th ANNUAL WAILEA VILLAGE ANNUAL MOCHI POUNDING - HAMAKUA
Join in what has now become a tradition for many locals & visitors alike at the quiet little plantation village of Wailea, Hakalau. Make traditional rice cakes the "old-fashioned" way. Everyone takes their turn at pounding the glutinous sticky rice for good luck. Fire building starts at 6 a.m. to steam the rice. Hearty local style lunch available for $5. New years crafts & calligraphy, floral arrangements, plantation stories, Okinawan Taiko drumming, Hawaiian entertainment & more. Event will go till approx. 1pm. Akiko's Buddhist Bed and Breakfast is at the 15-mile marker; Hwy. 19 on the Hamakua Coast, in Hakalau. Call Miss Akiko at (808) 963-6422 or e-mail msakiko@hawaii.rr.com for more info.

January

Wednesday mornings
"HAWAI'IANA LIVE!" - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Join Leilehua Yuen in this local's-eye-view of Hawai'i Island each Wednesday in Hilo's historic Palace Theater. Through traditional chant and storytelling, music, hula, and video featurettes, Leilehua explores different facets of Hawai'i Island. Topics and films change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar, and surprise guests and musicians often appear. A few of the past guests are Mary Ann Lim, Keoki Kahumoku, Leina'ala Lassiter, Diana Aki, and Stan Kaina. Sometimes there is hula! The show also features Bob Alder on the theater's historic pipe organ, playing some of Hawai'i's most beloved melodies. Wednesday mornings, 11:00 to 11:45am, except Christmas and New Year weeks. Admission: $5; kids free. Palace Theater, 38 Haili St. Hilo. Call 934-7010 for more information.

January 2 on (Mondays), 2012
HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
Kumu Keala Ching, founder of Na Wai Iwi Ola, a non-profit foundation, will be teaching Hawaiian language classes beginning Monday 1/2/12 at Kealakehe High School, just mauka of the cafeteria. Suggested donation is $15 per class, payable each week. All levels welcome, and you can start anytime. For more info, visit http://www.nawaiiwiola.org/index.html

January 4-8, 2012
WAIMEA OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL - WAIMEA, MAUNA KEA HOTEL, & THE FAIRMONT ORCHID (AT THE FOUR SEASONS JAN. 10-13)
Thirty-six films from local and international filmmakers will focus on a range of topics such as the ocean world and ocean life, human experience and impacts, and island cultures. Attendees will have the opportunity to talk with, and learn directly from, the filmmakers at Breakfast Talks. The Festival will move on to the Four Seasons Resort from Jan. 10-13. Passes start at $35 for a Student Film Pass (K-12), $85 for a Waimea 6-Punch Pass (6 films), and $195 for Waimea or Four Seasons Film Pass. Festival passes are available on the festival website, from the festival office, or the hospitality desk at Kahilu Theatre, which opens at 9 a.m. Jan 4. For more information, contact Christie Cash at christiecash@mac.com or call 808-315-0805. For the complete program, visit www.waimeaoceanfilm.org

January 7, 2012
SKEA COMEDY NIGHT - HONAUNAU
Join internationally acclaimed comedian, Georg Koeniger, and friends for an evening of comedy with pupus and beverages and a "Laugh In" Live Auction.Time: 7-9 PM at Society for Kona's Education & Art, Honaunau between mm 105-106. Cost: $35 for 1/$30 for 2 or more. For more information call 328-9392 or email skea@hawaii.rr.com or visit www.skea.org

January 8, 2012
KENNETH MAKUAKANE IN CONCERT - KILAUEA VISITOR CENTER, HI VOLCANOES NAT'L PARK
Hear this 12 time Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning singer/songwriter from 6:30-8:30pm, playing songs from his latest albums. Free to the public.

January 8, & 13, 2012
FREE CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERTS - KAILUA-KONA
There will be two free chamber music concerts presented by Univ. of the Nations Symphony of Nations and MasterWorks as part of a two week string music festival thru Jan 15. The concerts are free, and each has a distinct repertoire. They will be held at Hawai'i's first church, Mokuaikaua Church, located at 75-5713 Alii Drive at 7pm, on Sunday, January 8; and Friday January 13. Time: 7 pm. For more information, call 345-5446 or email herrickcolby@gmail.com

January 10, 2012
KONA TOWN MEETING - MAKAEO EVENTS PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
This month's meeting will be a West Hawaii State legislation discussion. The Hawaii State Legislature begins its 2012 session on January 18, 2012. How will the Reapportionment plan and the pending lawsuits possibly change legislative representation next year? What are West Hawaii Legislators planning for the upcoming Legislative session? Present at the meeting will be State Senator Josh Green, State Representative Cindy Evans and State Representative Denny Coffman. from 6-8pm. Light refreshments will be served. Bring your questions to the meeting, or, If you would like the moderator to ask your questions, please e-mail your questions to comments@konatownmeeting.org. Kona Town Meetings are presented by Community Enterprises, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, to provide vital information on community concerns to Kona citizens. For information, call 808-331-8602 or email Fred@kieleokona.com or visit www.konatwonmeeting.org

January 10, 2012
ZERO CURRENCY OPEN MIC NITE AT THE MILL - HOLUALOA
This inaugural event will kick-start the Donkey Mill Art Center's "Occupy Art - Beyond Wall Street" exhibit. Poets, singers, sketch artists, comics, musicians and the like are invited to join. Registration of your 5 min. maximum presentation is first-come, first-served at the door. Time: 6 to 8PM at Donkey Mill Art Center. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-322-3362 or email donkeymill@gmail.com

January 10-March 13, 2012
'UKELELE BUILDING FOR BEGINNERS WITH SAM ROSEN - HOLUALOA
This course intended for beginners, however, the experienced will also enjoy the experience. Time: 5:30 to 9:30PM at Donkey Mill Art Center, Holualoa. Cost: $275, Supply Fee: $90. For more information call: 808-322-3362 or email donkeymill@gmail.com

January 13, 2012
HAWAII ISLAND ECONOMIC SUMMIT 2012 - HAPUNA BEACH PRINCE HOTEL
Theme: "Expanding Our Horizons". The summit's morning panel "conversation" will be comprised of five to six guest thinkers and leaders who will discuss their work, ideas that inspire them and what they see as the future for Hawai'i Island. Confirmed speakers are Dr. Earl Bakken, engineer, businessman and philanthropist; William P. Kenoi, mayor, County of Hawai'i; Robert Pacheco, president and naturalist guide, Hawaii Forest & Trail; Sanjeev Bhagowalia, chief information officer for the newly created Hawai'i State Office of Information Management and Technology; and Michele Saito, president of Farmer's Insurance Hawai'i. Guest moderator for this panel will be Steve Petranick, editor of Hawaii Business magazine. The luncheon keynote speaker, Eric Saperston, is an acclaimed film director and producer, successful author and award-winning speaker and storyteller. Eric is chief creative officer for Live in Wonder Entertainment, a forward thinking lifestyle brand on the cutting edge of communication to ignite, inspire and enliven the world. Afternoon facilitated break-out sessions will be dedicated to drafting ideas and strategies that can expand the island's economic horizons and be developed into implementation plans. Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. Cost: $75. To register for the event, visit www.kona-kohala.com or call the Chamber at 808-329-1758. For more information, email carrie@kona-kohala.com

January 13 and 14, 2012
AYURVEDIC COOKING WORKSHOP - KALOKO INDUSTRIAL AREA, KONA
The workshop includes an Ayurvedic cooking demonstration and a full Ayurvedic dinner. Learn about the principles and health benefits of Ayurveda, the six tastes in your food, and how to prepare a balanced meal. Time: 5-8 pm at lotus cafe, Kaloko, Kona. Cost: $75/day. For information, call 808 895-7032 or email thelotuscafe@gmail.com

January 14, 2012
BOOK SALE - KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold its next book sale rom 9 AM to 1 PM on the lanai of the Kailua-Kona Library. Funds from sales help support the needs of Kona libraries, with funding that includes educational and entertainment programs, community summer reading programs, visiting authors, magazine subscriptions, CD's, DVD's and new book purchases. F.O.L.K. Members receive 20% off Lanai Sales, and as always, volunteers are welcome. If you find yourself willing and able, please email Booksales@folkhawaii.com. For more information, call 329-3440 or visit www.folkhawaii.com

January 14, 2012
MO' BETTAH KIDS "FUNDRAISER DAY!" - KAILUA-KONA
A day for our community to come together and see what we're all up to these days. See unique crafts, ideas, gifts & treasures. Eat & enjoy music from Lindsay Lindsey Jr. and Maka Gallinger, & cheer on our young aspiring entertainers. Judge our auto/ bike show. Play games & win prizes. Rummage for some treasure or find that special gift. Proceeds from vendors and show entrants will go directly to the Konawaena Middle School Nihon Clubs' "Go Japan" fundraiser. They plan to take an educational trip to Japan in June, but this economy is making the decision very difficult for many families. Help make this opportunity happen for all 14 of these students & their teacher. Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Old Airport Soccer Field, Kailua-Kona. Cost: Free to the public. For more information, call 808-333-0437 or email mobettahkids@gmail.com

January 14, 2012
DAMRON TAP DANCERS PRESENTATION- KAILUA KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Reni Damron will present an educational as well as entertaining program on tap dance and its music. There will be a wide variety of music used for different style tap dances, performed by Reni's Tappers". The background and origin of the various pieces of music will be discussed and ample time will be allowed for questions and answers during the presentation. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona, this program is free to the public. Time: 2-3pm. For more information, call 333-5402, email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

January 14, 2012
LIANE CARROLL BENEFIT CONCERT & SILENT AUCTION - FAIRMONT ORCHID
Award-winning English jazz artist Liane Carroll in concert on Saturday, January 14 at 7:30pm, Fairmont Orchid's Salon Ballroom. Evening also features a Silent auction with a variety of travel, restaurant, hospitality and service donations appealing to all budgets. The event benefits HPAF's scholarship program for young artists from Hawai'i to attend the 2012 summer festival in Waimea, July 1-22, 2012. $55/person for concert & auction, or $75 for concert ticket including 2 drinks and light meal. Doors open 6:00pm for auction; 7:30pm for concert. Contact HPAF at www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org or 808-333-7378. Time: 6-9 PM at Fairmont Orchid Salon Ballroom, Kohala Coast. Cost: $55 for concert & auction; $75 for drinks & light meal. For information call: 808-333-7378 or email genette.freeman@msn.com or visit www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org

January 15, 2012
MONTHLY "KOKUA KAILUA" VILLAGE STROLL AND HULIHE'E PALACE MONTHLY EVENT - KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian music featuring the Hawai'i County Band on the Palace's South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. Before and after the Palace performance, stroll thru historic Kailua Village (the Stroll starts at 1pm & goes till 6pm), enjoy oceanside cafes and restaurants, local musicians & artists. For more info about the Palace event, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit historickailuavillage.com

January 16, 2012
FREE KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC CONCERT - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA
Time: 4pm. Concertgoers should arrive no later than 3:15pm, as seating is limited. The concert will feature performances by the winners of the orchestra's first annual concerto competition, followed by Brahms Symphony #1. Dr. Madeline Schatz will conduct. Phone 325-4991 or email alohafidlr@aol.com for more info.

January 20, 2012
"MEDICINE FOR THE PEOPLE" BENEFIT AT THE ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
Medicine for the People and Kona Pacific Public Charter School will partner to present an evening of music & inspiration, beginning at 7pm. Musicians Nahkohe and Hope of Medicine for the People, and Dustin Thomas, will be joined by students from Kona Pacific Public Charter School in the culminating concert of a weeklong workshop. The children will be dancing and singing about simple truths that will stay with them throughout their lives. A portion of the proceeds of this event will support the development of a performing arts amphitheater at Kona Pacific Public Charter School in Kealakekua, whose innovative program is inspired by Waldorf education and rooted firmly in the land and culture of Hawai'i. Performing arts, assemblies, community gatherings & festivals are an integral part of the mission of Kona Pacific, and this event will launch the development of this important facility. Reserved seating $20 advance; $25 door. Tickets are available at www.apachawaii.org. For more information, call (808) 322-4900 or email info@kppcs.org

January 21, 2012
CRUISIN' FOR CHARITIES IN 2012 - KAILUA-KONA
Lanihau Center will launch the first of its 2012 monthly Cruise Nights on Saturday, January 21, from 6-9 p.m. in the main parking lot facing Longs Drugs. The free evening event is open to the public and all owners of classic, antique and American muscle cars, as well as hot rods, Volkswagens, sports cars, trucks and bikes. The featured non-profit charity for the night will be VASH, the Big Island's visitor assistance organization. Along with nearly 100 wildly diverse vehicles on display at the popular Cruise Nights Lanihau Center will also host a different local charity each month. Volunteers from these groups will have information about their programs at the main show tent. Non-profit groups who would like to be considered for future Cruise Nights can contact Margo Takata at lanihaucenterkona@gmail.com. The event will also feature the Big Island of Hawaii's SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) club. Members will be on hand with a display and information about their events. Also on hand will be 2011 SCCA Driver of the Year, Michael Oates, with his track-prepped '90 Mazda Miata. There is no entry fee, but participants and spectators are encouraged to make a donation at the VASH display and get tickets for giveaways that happen every half hour. Prizes are from Lanihau merchants, and Transmission Technology, who also sponsors the bright white show lights that illuminate the parking lot at each Cruise Night. Classic rock music and MC duties for the Saturday night event will be provided by LAVA 105 DJ Eddie O, who will also conduct the giveaways. At 7:30 p.m. all the hot rods, muscle cars, trucks, VWs and other participants are invite to 'light 'em up' and take a slow, escorted cruise around the shopping center parking lots. Open exhausts are permitted, and showing off is what the monthly parades are all about. For more information about Cruise Night schedule, contact Paul Maddox at zoom@kona.net or call (808) 960-1392.

January 21, 2012
LAURIE LEWIS & TOM ROZUM IN CONCERT - ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
Annual benefit concert for ARC of Kona, featuring this great, bluegrass-inspired duo. Voggy Mtn. Ramblers to open. Concert begins at 7pm. Adv. tickets $20; $20 at door. Adv. tickets available online at http://apachawaii.org/ For more info, visit laurielewis.com

January 21, 2012
HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY CENTENNIAL OPEN HOUSE - HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
A free, public open house will be held from 9am-4pm at the observatory in honor of 100 years of volcano monitoring. Many inter-active activities will be offered. For more information about the open house & other Volcano Awareness Month events, call 967-8844 or visit www.hvo.wr.usgs.gov

January 21, 2012
RURAL SOUTH HILO FAMILY FUN DAY
A day of down home community fun. All are welcome! Local musicians, tasty "grindz", 3 on 3 basketball, rummage sale & bake sale, waterslide & bouncer, free Zumba, and more. This event will raise funds for badly needed athletic equipment for the youth of rural South Hilo. Time: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Papa'ikou Gym & Community Center. Free to the public. For more information, call 808-333-2472 or email biroots14@yahoo.com

January 21, 2012
SAKURA ENSEMBLE MUSIC PRESENTATION - KAILUA KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
On Saturday, January 21st from 2-3pm at the Kailua Kona Public Library, the Sakura Ensemble will be presenting "Oshoogatsu; A New Year's Concert". The ensemble focuses on international classical, ethnic and jazz styles, with particular emphasis on French Impressionistic and Japanese traditional repertoire. Musicians are Annu Shionoya (keyboards), Jean Pierre Thomas (flute and saxophone) and Motter Snell (harp). There will also be a Japanese kimono and art display. Sponsored by Friends of the Libraries, Kona, this program is offered free to the public. For more information, contact 896-3856, 333-5402, email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

January 21-22, 2012
"LIVE CULTURE FOODS FOR HEALTH AND HOME" WORKSHOP - HOLUALOA
Sandor Katz, a leading live-culture foods revivalist and author, will be teaching a two-day practical workshop "Live-Culture Foods for Health and Home" on January 21-22, 2012 at the Imin Center in Holualoa. By live-culturing or "fermenting" with wild micro-organisms present in your home environment, you can create delicious and nutritious foods and drinks that help you become more interconnected with the world around you. Live-culturing foods is also a way to preserve them in a low-tech manner, with reduced use of fossil fuel-based resources (such as refrigeration). In short, live-culturing foods is a way to maintain health while increasing home food self-reliance. Participants will learn essential concepts of live-culture and fermentation, including gaining practical experience with legume cultures (miso, tempeh, etc.), vegetable cultures (kimchi, sauerkraut, etc.), beverages (kombucha, kefir, etc.), vinegars, dairy and grain cultures, and more. Sandor Katz has been presenting workshops throughout the U.S. for over a decade, and authored "Wild Fermentation; The Flavor, Nutrition, and Craft of Live-Culture Foods" (2003) and "The Art of Fermentation" (due 2012). Time: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Cost: $100 both days; $60 one day. For more information call 938-5618 or email editor@hawaiihomegrown.net or visit http://hawaiihomegrown.net/events

January 21 - February 25, 2012
ANNUAL HAWAI'I WOOD GUILD EXHIBIT - WAIMEA
Opening reception at 5pm, January 21st. Meet the woodworkers! Exhibit open Tuesdays thru Saturdays, 10am-5pm at Isaacs Art Center, 65-1268 Kawaihawe Rd, Kamuela (Waimea).

January 24, 2012
FOLK ANNUAL MEETING & BOOK CLUB - KAILUA KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Friends of the Library, Kona, will be holding their Annual Meeting at 10am followed by a short reception with refreshments. Current FOLK members are encouraged to attend, as well as those interested in becoming members. Following the reception, the Book Club will meet at approximately 11:30 PM. This meeting date is a change from the usual third Tuesday of the month due to the library closure for Martin Luther King Day. The book for this month is "Happiness Project", by Gretchen Rubin. February's selection will be "What the Dog Saw", by Malcolm Gladwell. For more information, call 325-5445, email folk@folkhawaii.com or visit www.folkhawaii.com

January 25, 2012
HANOHANO `O KONA/HONORING KONA 2012 LECTURE SERIES
"Ka`Olelo Hawai`i/The Hawai'ian Language: Revitalizing the Language Through Our Children" is part of a monthly community lecture series for 2012 that spotlights local and state speakers on a wide variety of cultural and historical subjects. The staff and students of the K-12 Hawai'ian language immersion school, Ke Kula `o `Ehunuikaimalino, will share ha`i olelo (talk) and mele (songs) and "continue to revitalize the Hawai'ian language through children". Also, the members of Unuehu, a branch of the larger hula community of learners of the Hawai`i Community College's Unukupukupu, will be sharing their mele (songs), oli (chants) and hula (dance). Unukupukupu is the name of the rigorous, didactic and experiential hula curricula of Dr. Taupouri Tangaro. Presented by Kona Historical Society, in cooperation with the County of Hawai'i, this lecture series is a gift from the Society to the community that has supported it for so long. Free of charge, it is open to all, residents and visitors alike. Time: 5:30-7PM at West Hawai`i Civic Center, Kealakekua Parkway, Kailua-Kona. For more information, call 808-323-3222, email khs@konahistorical.org or visit www.konahistorical.org

January 26-28, 2012
'IOLANI LUAHINE HULA FESTIVAL - KEAUHOU BEACH RESORT
A festival honoring Aunty 'Iolani Luahine, one of Hawai'is premiere performers and cultural treasures. The Festival will include a visit to 'Iolani's birthplace in Napo'op'o Village, hula workshops and presentations, and an educational "challenge" to Kumu Hula, with a prize for the one who best demonstrates the values of 'Iolani Luahine in regard to education and Hawaiian culture. Fee for hula workshops; evening musical entertainment will be offered to the public for a modest donation, with tickets available at the door. At 4pm on Thursday, Jan. 26th, Keoki Kahumoku will host an 'Ukulele Jam, on Friday, January 27th, at 6:30pm, Aunty Diana Aki, the Songbird of Miloli'i, will perform, and on Saturday at 6:30pm the Ladies of Waiku'i (with Konabob on steel guitar!) will present Hapaiali'i, an authentic Hawaiian Luau Show.. For more information about 'Iolani Luahine and the Festival, visit www.iolaniluahinefestival.org or contact administrator@nawaiiwiola.org

January 27, 2012
ANCIENT HAWAIIAN SUSTAINABILITY LECTURE - CAPTAIN COOK
Learn about the ancient Hawaiian sustainability practices that supported a larger population on the Big Island than live here today. You will learn about the plants, agricultural field system and ahupua'a land management systems that created 100% self reliant living. Guest Presenter: Noa Lincoln. Organized by the One Island Sustainable Living Center and its new Same Canoe Community Gardens Project. Time: 9am-12noon at Amy B Greenwell Garden, Captain Cook. Free to the public. For more information, call 328-2452, email info@one-island.org or visit www.one-island.org/hawaii

January 28, 2012
ASTRONAUT ELLISON ONIZUKA SCIENCE DAY - UNIV. OF HILO
A day of science and space! On-line registration is open to students in grades 4-12, parents, and teachers of any grade level. Time: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at University of Hawaii at Hilo. Free to the public. For more information, call (808) 934-7261, email art@higp.hawaii.edu or visit http://www.spacegrant.hawaii.edu/OnizukaDay/

January 28, 2012
5th ANNUAL COMMUNITYCARES BENEFIT EVENT - KONA INTERNATIONAL MARKET
CommunityCares is an all-volunteer, non-profit group that promotes community awareness of the affects of domestic violence, homeless persons, and cancer and medical hair loss patients. From 10am-2pm, raise awareness and funds at a silent auction, and enjoy great entertainment, delicious food, a "wig-out" table, photo booth, haircuts, massages, manicures and rummage sale. DONATION ITEMS NEEDED: Non-perishable food, single size bed linen/blankets, pillows, towels, new hair brushes, size 4-5 diapers, gas cards, movie passes, monetary gifts, and silent auction items. "To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world." For more information, or to volunteer, please call 808-326-2866 or email TBOSMASA@aol.com.

January 28, 2012
"PAINT OFF" BENEFIT - KAILUA-KONA
Rumley Gallery & Ginger Sandell CPA are sponsoring a "paint off" at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel. 20 local artists will paint original art work to be auctioned off at the Rumley Gallery from 4pm-8pm on Saturday the 28th. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Innovations Public Charter School's art programs. Light pupus and beverages will be provided. Any artists who would like to sign up, please contact Tess Rumley @937-9599. Time: 4-8 pm. For more information, call 960-3153 or email Michelle

January 28, 2012
NATHAN AWEAU "FREE" CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
6pm, at Keauhou Shopping Center. Nathan was a member of the well-known group, HAPA. Admission is two cans of food per person for the Food Basket. For each can over two, attendees will receive an entry to the drawing for a prize from Kona Stories Bookstore or Moo Bettah Frozen Fun.

January 28, 2012
JORMA KAUKONEN & CHRIS SMITHER IN CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
To be held at Royal Kona Resort. Doors open at 6pm; Show at 7pm. TIckets $28; $35; $45 (Gold Circle). Artist info, video & tickets at www.lazarbear.com or phone 808 896-4845. Tickets also available at Sound Wave Music, Kailua-Kona; Music Exchange, Waimea; Music Exchange, Hilo; CD Wizard, Hilo; Royal Kona Resort Front Desk (ticket & room pkgs. available).

January 29, 2012
JORMA KAUKONEN & CHRIS SMITHER IN CONCERT - PALACE THEATER, HILO
Doors open at 6pm; Show at 7pm. TIckets $28; $35; $45 (Gold Circle). Artist info, video & tickets at www.lazarbear.com or phone 808 896-4845. Tickets also available at Sound Wave Music, Kailua-Kona; Music Exchange, Waimea; Music Exchange, Hilo; CD Wizard, Hilo; Palace Theater Box Office.

January 29, 2012
BIG ISLAND GEOCACHERS ANNUAL "MEET & GREET"- KAILUA-KONA
Anyone who is interested in Geocaching or who owns a GPS is encouraged to attend this event at Kona Coast Shopping Center's Food Court. No experience necessary, as volunteers will show you how and where to find a geocache. Time: 10am-12pm. Free to the public. For more information, contact jake39geocacher@gmail.com

January 29, 2012
SKEA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DAY - HONAUNAU
Enjoy an afternoon at the Society for Kona's Education & Art with live music, an art "assemblage" exhibit, silent auction, pupus, kanikapila, and a brief meeting/elections. Time: 2-5 PM at SKEA, in Honaunau, between mm 105-106, Free to the public. For more information, call 328-9392, email skea@hawaii.rr.com