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July
July 4, 2024
60th ANNUAL JULY 4th PARKER RANCH RODEO AND HORSE RACES - WAIMEA
Gates open at 7:30am. Rodeo takes place from 9am-1pm at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea. Limited seating, on a first come, first served basis, so get there early to ger a good spot! Tickets are on sale at Kamuela Hardwoods, Paniolo Preservation Society and Waimea Butcher Shop, or purchase online at this page. Children 12 and under are free,
July 4, 2024
NA'ALEHU INDEPEDENCE DAY PARADE - NA'ALEHU PARK, KA'U
11am. After the Parade, enjoy pizza, shave ice, watermelon, a water slide, a bouncy house, Senior Bingo/Luncheon. There will also be vendors at the regular Farmers Market site in town. For more info, contact OKK at 808-929-9872 or visit www. okaukakou.org.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS - KAILUA-KONA
Parade at 6pm; Fireworks over Kailua Bay at 8pm.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS - HILO
At 8 p.m., the Hilo Bay Blast fireworks exhibition will begin with professional pyrotechnics set off from a barge moored in Hilo Bay. The Hawai'i County Band will present a live accompaniment to the fireworks with a performance that begins at 7 p.m. at the Mo'oheau Park bandstand. For those not near the bandstand, the fireworks display will be synchronized to patriotic music aired on KWXX.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY EVENTS (INCLUDING ANNUAL RUBBER DUCKIE RACE) - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Schedule of Events: 11am, A-Bay's Island Grill Watermelon-Eating Contest; 12 noon, Original Big Island Shave Ice Co.'s Shave Ice-Eating Contest; 1-3pm, Live Performances; 3pm Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race at Lakeside; 3:30pm, Duck Waddling & Duck Calling Contests; 4:30pm, Duck Hunt Winners; 5pm, Awards Ceremony.
July 12-28, 2024
47th ANNUAL SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK FESTIVAL - HILO
The Hilo Community Players are proud to present “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)," and the keiki-friendly “Shakespeare Shorts.” The hilarious and fast-paced “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” will be presented - free to the public - from July 23-28th on the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center Lawn.This critically acclaimed play condenses all of Shakespeare’s plays into a "whirlwind of comedic delight.” Performances are scheduled for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, and Sundays at 2:30pm.”Shakespeare Shorts” offers a delightful introduction to Shakespeare’s works to children, and will be presented from July 13-28 on the Performing Center’s Lawn on Saturdays at 4pm and Sundays at 5pm, and features a cast in incredible youth, teen, and adult performers. Donations are welcome. Bring your own mats, blankets or chairs. Visit hiloplayers.org for more info,
July 13, 2024
DAIFUKUJI SOTO MISSION BON DANCE - HONALO
“Celebrating Community and Honoring Ancestors,” this Japanese cultural event will take place outdoors at Daifukuji Soto Mission (next to Teshima’s Restaurant) from 3-6:30pm. Free to the public. Enjoy the dancing, taiko drumming, Zumba, and fellowship. Free Bon Dance practice sessions taught by sensei Winnie Kimura in the Social Hall will be offered on July 2, 4, 9 and 11; beginners are welcome. For more info, visit www.daifukuji.org or call 808-322-3524.
July 13, 2024
BIG ISLAND JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL - MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL
Oceanfront performances, from 5-9pm, with Grammy Award winners, Grammy-nominated artists, Music Hall of Fame members and jazz and blues legends. Gates open at 4:30PM. Visit www.Bigislandjazzandbluesfestival.com for more details.
July 13, 2024
HILO BREWFEST
From 2-5pm on the oceanside grounds of the Hilo Yacht Club. Sample craft beers from around the country, and taste food from local restaurants on the Big Island. Ticket sales, sponsorships and donations will benefit charites supported by the Rotary Club of Hilo. Visit hilobrewfest.com for more info.
July 13-14, 2024
15th ANNUAL FilAm CHARITY TOURNAMENT - KEAUHOU, KONA
This tennis and pickleball tournament will take place at Holua Resort, and will raise scholarship funds for eligible college bound Hawaii graduating high school students. For more information about this event, please visit www.FilAmHawaii.com.
July 20, 2024
40th ANNUAL VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK CULTURAL FESTIVAL - KAHUKU
Enjoy live Hawaiian music and hula, and may hands-on activities and games for the whole family, from 10am to 3pm at Kahuku portion of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Entrance is free to the cultural festival. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase - or pack a picnic! Conservation organizations will share knowledge and educational materials. The official 2024 Festival t-shirt will be for sale, as well as merchandise from the Parks store. A free shuttle will be provided by KopohoKine Adventures between the Festival grounds and the parking area on the former air strip. Kahuku is located on the mauka side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5 in Ka’u, a 50 minute drive south of the Park’s main entrance.
July 26-28, 2024
HILO ORCHID SOCIETY SALE - EDITH KANAKA'OLE STADIUM
Each year the Hilo Orchid Society stages the largest and most comprehensive orchid show and sale in the state of Hawai`i. The show takes place at the Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium in Hilo. Friday hours 9am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-1:30pm. For more info, visit https://www.hiloorchidsociety.org/
July 27, 2024
”VIBRANT HAWAI’I/ARTS FOR EVERYBODY” ALL DAY ISLAND-WIDE EVENT
Eleven artists from Vibrant Hawai''s year-long arts fellowship will present visual arts, natural fiber weavings, devised theater, music performances and workshops in kapa, community-created quilting, writing, and more. Showcase locations include Waimea, Kapa'au, Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, Kainaliui, Kaʻawaloa, Hilo, Pahoa, Mountain View, and Volcano. Vibrant Hawai'i is part of a larger national campaign called Arts for EveryBody. Across the country, on this day in 17 other big cities and rural counties, thousands will gather for larg-scale participatory art projects to spotlight that arts participation, in all its brilliant forms, is good for the health of individuals and communities. For more details, visit https://www.artsforeverybody.org/hawaii-island or email beckybrett.live@gmail.com.
August
August 2-4, 2024
47th ANNUAL SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK FESTIVAL PRESENTATION - HONOKA'A
The Hilo Community Players are proud to present “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged).” This hilarious and fast-paced piece will be presented - free to the public - at the Honoka’a Sports Complex. This critically acclaimed play condenses all of Shakespeare’s plays into a "whirlwind of comedic delight.” Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm, and Sunday at 2:30pm. Bring your own seating as needed (mats, chairs, blankets) for outdoor performances. Donations are welcome. Visit hiloplayers.org for more info.
August 4, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE GREAT AMERICAN OUTDOORS ACT
No entry fees to our national parks!
August TBA, 2024
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION - HILO AND KONA
For more info, visit HawaiiZeroWaste.org, or call (808) 961-8554.
August 10 and 11, 2024
ANNUAL HANA NO'EAU HAWAIIAN ARTS FESTIVAL - HILO
Na Makua presents this free event to be held at Edith Kanaka'ole Tennis Stadium. The event is dedicated to the perpetuation of the Hawaiian culture and arts by offering a venue where Hawai’i's master artists and producers can share their talent and mana'o. Hana No'eau is often translated as “art," but it can also describe a wide array of creativity which includes visual arts, literary arts and performing arts that link the past, present and future. This event will be featuring some of Hawai'i's finest artisans and producers of Hawaiian arts and crafts, as well as cultural demonstrations, Hawaiian entertainment and 'ono mea'ai. Please visit namakua.com for more info about the event.
August 17 and 18, 2024
ANNUAL HAWAIIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL PU'UKOHOLA HEIAU NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, KAWAIHAE
Festivities will commence on Saturday at 6:00 a.m. with a hoʻokupu (gift giving) ceremony, followed by various workshops and demonstrations showcasing traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts, such as ulana lauhala (lauhala weaving), holo waʻa (canoe rides), kuiki (quilting), Hawaiian games, lei haku ame lei wili (different lei making styles), ulana niu (coconut frond weaving), kapa making, ʻohe hano ihu (bamboo nose flute), and live Hawaiian music. The event will continue on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and both days will conclude at 3:00 p.m. The event is free to attend and will be held at Pelekane Bay, below Puʻukoholā Heiau in Kawaihae. To find parking, follow the signs along the roadway near the park. The weather in Kawaihae is typically dry and humid, so it is recommended that attendees use sunscreen, wear comfortable clothing, and bring their own water, refreshments, and lunch if planning on staying all day. This free public event is sponsored by the National Park Service, Hawai'i Pacific Parks Association, and Nā Aikane o Puʻukoholā Heiau. For more information, please call 808-882-7218 ext. 1101 or visit www.nps.gov/puhe.
August 23 and 24, 2024
KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK SALE
August 23, from 11am-3pm, and August 24, from 9am-12pm. The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) End-of-Summer book sale is usually FOLK's largest book sale of the year. There will be a variety of books to choose from including fiction, non-fiction, children's and young adult books, cookbooks, Hawaiiana, and other specialty books. All sales directly benefit both the Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona libraries. Bring cash or your checkbook (no credit cards). For more information, visit folkhawaii.com.
September
September TBA, 2024
ANNUAL QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI OUTRIGGER LONG-DISTANCE CANOE RACE - KONA
The event's signature Queen's Race 18-mile long-distance race is scheduled for 7:30 a.m on Sept. 2., departing from Kailua Bay. The race will also be broadcast via livestream on Facebook. Follow @QueenLiliuokalaniCanoeRace for all the action. For the event's five days, additional ocean races and events open to the public will take place; for a full list of these events, please visit qlcanoerace.com
September 7, 2024
QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION - LILI'UOKALANI GARDENS, HILO
From 10am-3pm at Lili'uokalani Gardens, enjoy a thrilling "Mass Hula" with many local halau participating togethe. There will also be a helicopter "flower drop"; Hawaiian games and demos; food trucks, children's games; tea ceremony; and more free family fun. Entertainment will include many favorite local Hawaiian musicians.
September TBA, 2024
KONA PRIDE FESTIVAL
To be held at Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua-Kona. There will be events related to Kona Pride Festival happening all weekend.
September 21, 2024
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY'S FALL SHOW & SALE - MAKAEO COUNTY PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
The Kona Orchid Society's Fall Show & Sale will take place inside and out of the Makaeo County Pavilion at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, from 9am to 2pm. The nominal admission fee includes a host of educational offerings. The fun includes a display of blooming orchids by club members and a sale presenting a wide selection of healthy plants from Hawai'i Island growers. In addition to numerous orchid varieties, choose from cactus, succulents, air plants, bonsai, protea, fruit trees, exotic tropicals, water plants, herbs, vegetable starts and bedding plants. Jams, jellies, arts and crafts and high-fire functional stoneware will also be sold. Food vendors will be on site offering tasty local favorites and free boxes will be available while supplies last to carry purchases. Attendees are invited to talk story with growers and on-site master gardeners for tried-and-true growing tips.
September 21, 2024
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE CELEBRATION - HONOKA'A
Peace Day, September 21, is the United Nations International Day of Peace, celebrated annually with concerts, cultural gatherings, religious services, dance and art happenings worldwide.
September 28, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY
No entry fees to our national parks!
October
October 12, 2024
HAMAKUA SUGAR DAYS PARADE AND FESTIVAL - HONOKA'A
Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the final harvest of Hamakua Sugar, and honoring the hard work of the "sugar people" throughout Hawai'i island, a parade will take place on Mamane St., Honoka'a at 10am. All sugar workers are invited to talk story about the plantation days. There will be other events during the week; details to be announced. Contact 808-437-1947 or email hamakuasugardays@gmail.com if you, or someone you know, would like to come and talk story.
October TBA, 2024
ASTRODAY AT KONA COMMONS SHOPPING CENTER
Learners of all ages are invited to Kona Commons Shopping Center in Kailua Kona on Saturday for an entertainment-filled day of astronomy, robotics, and natural sciences. Sponsored by the Maunakea Observatories, this free, open-air event is an opportunity for the community to meet with scientists and educators and learn how Hawai`i contributes to new and amazing discoveries in astronomy. The Maunakea Observatories and other science-based and community organizations will offer fun and informative science demonstrations and activities. There will be free giveaways while supplies last and the UH Institute for Astronomy will have a solar telescope on site to safely view the surface of the sun. Special grand prizes will include two NASA-themed skateboards. No purchase is necessary, but you do need to be present to win.
October TBA, 2024
TASTE OF HILO 2024
The Japanese Chamber of Commerce will present the annual "A Taste of Hilo" at Sangha Hall in Hilo. Enjoy 'ono grinds at East Hawai'i's premier culinary event, which showcases more than 30 of the island's tastemakers and beverage purveyors. Attendees enjoy sweet and savory delights created by chefs, restaurants and patisseries, and sample locally crafted beer, wine and sake. The event is a great way to taste flavors and ingredients unique to the islands. Each year, a different local ingredient is featured. Other local products featured at A Taste of Hilo have included Big Island abalone, sturgeon, pasture-raised beef, kampachi and blue fin tuna. Proceeds support Hawai'i Community College. Tickets are now on sale ($75) at tasteofhilo.org.
October TBA, 20243
PLANT PEOPLE ROAD SHOW - KAILUA-KONA
Find out from Big Island growers what plant varieties thrive best in your location at the Plant People Road Show, to be held from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Makaeo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport State Park. The popular Road Show returns after a nearly three-year hiatus due to COVID-19. Admission is free. During the sale, talk story with growers from the island's different regions. In addition, growers will offer plant selections geared for fall planting, and blooming plants for gift giving. Available will be bedding plants, veggie starts, herbs, roses, air plants, warm-tolerant varieties of cymbidium orchids, select and hard-to-find orchid varieties, assorted cactus and succulents, palms, fruit trees, bamboo and heliconia. In its eighth year, the Plant People Road Show offers two sales annually, around Valentine's Day and Halloween. For more info, phone 808-987-3231.
October TBA, 2024
VASH HAWAI'I ISLAND FUNDRAISER - MAUNA LANI GOLF, SOUTH COURSE
Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai'i, Hawai'i Island, (VASH, a 501(c)(3) organization), serves as a temporary lifeline to provide initial assistance to visitors who have been victims of a crime or other adversities while on the island. VASH assistance is designed to help visitors cope with and recover from a variety of unfortunate situations, i.e. lost documents, crime, medical emergencies, or death of a loved one. VASH receives referrals from the Hawaiʻi County Police Department, local hospitals, airport security and others. Each situation is assessed individually and appropriate support services are offered. Volunteers are the heart of VASH. The services to visitors are made possible through the generous contribution of time and talents from a diverse group of trained and compassionate volunteers. With their help and aloha, VASH assists in hundreds of visitors each year. This Golf Tournament fundraiser will feature a four-person scramble on the famous Mauna Lani Golf, South Course. There will be lunch and Door/Team prizes following. For more info, call Rachel at 808-960-2338, email admin@VASHBigIslalnd.org or visit VASHBigIsland.org.
October TBA, 2024
RUN FOR THE DRY FOREST: 10K RUN, 5K RUN/WALK OR 1/4-MILE KEIKI RUN - PU'UWA'AWA'A FOREST RESERVE
The race will take place from 6:45am till noon at 71-1646 Hawai'i Belt Rd. The 10K run starts at 7:45am and is an "extreme trail running experience" featuring a 1200 ft. elevation gain in the first 3 miles. The 5K starts at 8:00am and is suitable for most people and jogging strollers. The keiki run starts at 8:30am and is perfect for little legs as well as parents. Pu’uwa’awa'a is home to several species of endangered birds and many endangered plants, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Proceeds from the race events contribute to conservation of these species. Registration is required. To reduce waste this year, the event will be cup-less; a collapsible, reusable race cup will be included in each registration packet. PLEASE NOTE: No pets are allowed, as there are endangered nene geese in the area. Cost: $40 per entrant. Sign up early, as prices will increase as race day approaches, and there will be no same day registration. For more information visit the Akaka Foundation for Tropical Forests website at akakaforests.org.
October TBA, 2024
HAWAII ARTIST COLLABORATION 2024 CHARITY ART AUCTION - KAILUA-KONA
The Hawaii Artist Collaboration Charity Art Auction is a must-attend event for art enthusiasts and collectors. Discover unique and breathtaking artworks created by participating artists at one of Hawai'i Island's most anticipated annual events.More than 35 artists from throughout Hawai'i and around the world come together to create unique pieces of art in just four days during the week. The artwork produced will be offered for sale at a silent and live auction. Proceeds from the auction and ticket sales help fund art supplies for Hawai'i Island art teachers, and support future events. Don't miss this opportunity to support the local art community and take home a masterpiece of your own! Visit hawaiiartistcollaboration.org for more info.
October TBA, 2024
27th ANNUAL HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY FESTIVAL - OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT, KEAUHOU
Featuring some of Hawai'i's best slack key players. Admission charge at the door; no pre-sale tickets. Llivestream available at www.facebook.com/slackkeyfesivals; youtube.com/hawaiianslackkeyguitarfestivals.
October TBA, 2024
10th ANNUAL EAST HAWAI'I JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL - HILO
To be held at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, and benefiting the Hawai'i Veterans Memorial Inc. "The program features a lavish Pupu buffet, dessert station, wine and beer tasting, no host bar and non-stop music featuring some of Hawaii's finest jazz and blues musicians along with highly acclaimed artists from the mainland." Visit East Hawai'i Jazz and Blues Festival page for more info.
October 24, 2024
2024 HAWAI'I FESTIVAL OF BIRDS - HILO
This exciting full day event celebrates the diverse bird species found in our Islands. The celebration in Hilo includes a Bird Fair, Manu Hula Hōʻike, and expert guest speakers. Proceeds raised from this festival will support future Hawai'i Island Festival of Birds, plus the conservation work of the Hawai'i Wildlife Center and the Conservation Council for Hawai'i. Visit the festival website for more info: birdfesthawaii.org.
November
November TBA, 2024
KONA COFFEE CULTURAL FESTIVAL
The annual celebration of one of Hawai'i's most famous products. For a list of events, visit Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2024
KONA COFFEE FESTIVAL MADE-IN-HAWAI'I ARTISAN MARKET - HALE HALAWAI, KAILUA-KONA
11am-3pm. Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2024
KONA COFFEE FESTIVAL LANTERN PARADE - KAILUA-KONA
6-7pm, from Kailua Pier to Hale Halawai County Pavilion. Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2024
HOLUALOA COFFEE & ART STROLL
Check out this popular Coffee Festival event in the artists' colony of Holualoa. From 9am-2pm there will be 35+ Hawai'i coffee farm vendors represented, tasty treats and local goods. Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2024
HAWAI'I ISLAND VETERANS DAY PARADE - HILO
10 am start time at Wailoa State Park and Pauahi St., downtown Hilo. For more information, visit www.hivetparade.org.
November TBA, 2024
HOLUALOA COFFEE FESTIVAL HO'OLAULE'A - OLD AIRPORT STATE PARK, KAILUA-KONA
A day of Kona coffee celebration with live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors and trucks, an amazing lei contest, cultural demonstrations, educational/historical displays, Kona Coffee for sampling/purchase and much more, from 9am-3pm at Maka'eo Pavilion. Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2024
3rd ANNUAL HONOKA'A RENAISSANCE FAIRE HONOKA'A
Calling all fair maidens, noble knights, brave bards, and merry minstrels! Explore the villages and marketplaces, discover unique treasures, and feast on exotic flavors from vendors far and wide. Dazzling demonstrations, all-day stage performances, and activities for all ages will be scattered throughout the park and town. Mead and ale will be available, and costumes are encouraged! This event is free and open to the public. For more info, email honokaarenfaire@gmail.com, or follow at @honokaarenfaire.
November TBA, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING OUR MILITARY VETERANS
Veterans Day - no entry fees to our national parks!
November TBA, 2024
22nd ANNUAL 'UKULELE & SLACK KEY GUITAR FESTIVAL - WAIMEA
A festival like no other, musicians will take the stage together to talk story, play music, and share their experiences as award-winning Hawaiian music artists. The Festival includes a Ho'olaulea Night, when each of the participating musicians will take the stage individually as well as invite small groups to join them as they showcase their favorite songs and one-of-a-kind musical collaborations, a Kanikapila Concert Day. when the musicians take the stage in a slightly less formal concert setting. After intermission, audience members with tickets and an instrument will be invited to join the guest artists on stage. (Please note there are limited tickets to play on stage with the artists.) The artists take turns leading each other in both song and story, finding new inspiration in the music they love to share. Visit kahilutheatre.org for more info. The event is available on-demand online or in person.
November TBA, 2024
TRIBUTE TO THE "MERRIE MONARCH," KING DAVID KALAKAUA - OUTRIGGER KEAUHOU RESORT
Enjoy hula presentations from across the Hawaiian islands, Japan and Europe, along with local arts and crafts, and food for purchase, from 8am-2pm. Kumu Hula and students from across the Hawaiian Islands, Japan, and Europe will present their art of style and tradition of hula with either hula kahiko (ancient) or hula 'auana (modern) styles of dance. Each school will showcase traditional hula steps, expressions, creativity and adornments, with costumes and stories that support the hula traditions. All the hula presentations are free.
November TBA, 2024
KAILUA VILLAGE KALIKAMAKA TREE LIGHTING
To be held at Emma's Square (located across from Hulihee Palace). The tree lighting and holiday program gets started at 5:15 pm. Special musical performances and keiki hula performances from Halau E Hulali Mai I Ka La will take place. There will be a festive selfie spot with Miss Kona Coffee and Miss Aloha Hawaii as the tree lights up and signals the start of the holiday season.
November TBA, 2024
VOLCANO ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR
Now in its 37th year, the Studio Tour will take place over Thanksgiving weekend. Five studio and gallery locations will open their doors to the public, with a wide range of artwork on display and available for purchase. Included will be original paintings and prints; hand blown art glass; woodwork; vintage silk clothing and bags; quilts; ceramic tiles; jewelry; stained glass; and pottery, all in a variety of styles and price ranges. Please check the Hui website at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com for more information and a map to the studios. For a less crowded, and more relaxed shopping experience, please consider attending on Saturday or Sunday.
November TBA, 2024
THE DOWNTOWN HILO CHRISTMAS LIGHT PARADE
At 6pm, the East Hawai'i Lions Club and Leo Clubs will host the parade - and Santa will be there! They are looking forward to a parade full of floats, marching bands, and community groups representing the community of Hilo, Hawaii. Visit hilolightparade.com for more info.
December
December TBA, 2024
26th ANNUAL MUSIC & LIGHT FESTIVAL - HOLUALOA VILLAGE
Enjoy the lights and music of the holidays, from the historic Kona Hotel to the old Holualoa Library at this charming artists colony in the Kona coffee belt, from 5:30-8:30pm. There will be treats and holiday specials at the galleries and shops. Bring the keiki and camera for a visit with Santa!
December TBA, 2024
33rd CHRISTMAS WITH THE CHEFS FUNDRAISER - KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL
Beginning at 5:30pm, Chefs and local culinary students will delight attendees with plates of expertly prepared savory cuisine and delectable holiday treats, all accompanied by local ales, wines from around the world, handcrafted cocktails, and 100% Kona coffee.This annual fundraiser benefits local culinary students attending Hawai'i Community College - Palamanui and members of the Kona Kohala Chefs wanting to further their education. The Silent Auction is a benefit for the Palamanui culinary program through the ACF Kona Kohala Chefs and Jean Hull Endowment Fund. Over the years, the event's scholarship focus has raised over $900,000. Early Bird tickets are sold online until Oct. 22nd. For more info, visit www.konakohalachefs.org for more info.
December TBA, 2024
WAIMEA CHRISTMAS PARADE
The Parade will start at 5:30pm and follow a different route this year. The Assembly, Starting Point and Check-in Station will be at Waimea Park. The Parade Route is as follows:
Exiting Waimea Park onto Lindsey Road, heading toward the main intersection; Left onto Mamalahoa Highway, Right onto Pukalani Rd., Right onto Ala Ohia and disband at the Waimea District Park. Visit waimeatown.org for more details.
December TBA, 2024
18th ANNUAL PARADISE STUDIO ART TOUR - KEA'AU
In keeping with their mission of bringing artists and patrons together, and supporting, encouraging, and inspiring young artists, The Paradise Studio Tour Artist Collective is hosting their free 17th annual tour Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 2 and 3 from 10am to 4pm in Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kea'au. To date, the collective has donated over $25,000 for art supplies divided between schools in the Puna District: Pahoa High, Keaau High and Hawaii Academy for Arts and Sciences. From the first 2007 2-day tour, artists have donated 10% of their sales. Eight studio locations are open this year, hosting 22 of the collective artists in a variety of media ranging from original fine art paintings, drawings and prints, to jewelry, ceramics, silk fashions, fused and stained glass. All are handcrafted on the Big Island by local artists inspired by the powerful beauty of this amazing place. For more info, and map, visit www.paradisestudiotour.com for more info.
December TBA, 2024
KAILUA-KONA CHRISTMAS PARADE
5 pm start. Please visit paradesinkona.com for more information and applications. Any questions please call 808-345-2108.
December TBA, 2024
WAIKOLOA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND KEIKI FEST - WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
This event will take place at the Waikoloa School Plex. There will be games, gifts, food and lots of fun for all ages! For more info, please contact: Keiki Fest and Vendors - Sheryl (808) 345-4956; Parade Entries - Chris (808) 339-7738.
December TBA, 2024
HAWAIIAN HOLIDAY CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
Downtown, on Alii Drive, from 4-5pm, enjoy Napua Grieg, a 5-time Na Hoku Hanohano award winner (Hawaain Grammy). She will sing songs from her albums and holidaty favorites.
December TBA, 2024
LIGHTED BOAT PARADE - KAILUA-KONA
6pm, after the Kailua Village Stroll. View it from the Kailua Pier area.
December TBA, 2024
KAINALIU KALIKIMAKA; A HOLIDAY STROLL
From 5:30-8:30pm enjoy food, live music, crafts, giveaways, kids' activities, and Santa at this little town just south of Kailua-Kona. Fun for the whole 'ohana.
December TBA, 2024
THE NUTCRACKER BALLET - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA
West Hawai'i Dance Theatre presents the holiday classic at 2pm and 6pm. Visit West Hawai'i Dance Theatre's website for more info and tickets.
December TBA, 2024
8th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK - HILO
Lili'uokalani Gardens will be festooned with lights for all to enjoy, from 6-9pm each night.
January
January TBA, 2025
44th ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION - KAILUA-KONA
The Annual Community Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration will take place on Sunday, January 14, from 11:30 AM at Maka`eo Pavilion, at Old Airport in Kailua-Kona. Free lunch will be served for the celebrants at 12:00 PM. The program will start at 1:15PM with music, songs, and dance, and artwork from local school children. This is a free annual celebration that is open to the public to mark the anniversary of Dr. King's birthday and to honor his life, work, and legacy. As the struggle for human and civil rights continue to challenge our nation and the world, this event provides our community the hope and encouragement that is needed during these challenging times. Please join in rededicating ourselves to the vision of Dr. King - racial equality, non-discrimination, and social justice through non-violent means. For more info, please contact Jasmin at jasmink01@aol.com.
January TBA, 2025
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING MARTIN LUTHER KING'S BIRTHDAY
No entry fees to our national parks!
January TBA, 2025
HAWAI'I WOOD GUILD 39th INVITATIONAL MASTERS SHOW - WAIMEA
The cream of Hawaiian woodworkers will be presenting their work at Isaacs Art Center at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy, Mon.-Fri., from 9am-5pm. Free and open to the public. Please visit this page for more details.
January TBA, 2025
KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK SALE
There will be Hawaiiana, paperback trades, non fiction, children's, cookbooks and other speciality books available for sale. As always, proceeds from the sale go to support the libraries in Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona.
February
February TBA, 2025
ANNUAL WAIMEA CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Spend the day experiencing Japanese and multi-cultural performing arts, plus hands-on demonstrations of bonsai, traditional tea ceremony, food preparation by local chefs, and craft vendors. Festivites kick off with a blessing on the main entertainment stage behind Parker Ranch Center. Roberts Hawaii will provide a free transportation shuttle between Church Row Park and Parker Ranch Center, though walking is encouraged. The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival is produced by the Hawai'i County Parks and Recreation's Culture and Education Section. The event is a community-wide effort by a dedicated team of volunteers. For more info, find updates on facebook: WaimeaCherryBlossomHeritageFestival.
February TBA, 2025
CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION - HONOKA'A
Professional Lion Dance by Yau Gong Lion Dancers! Food trucks, pop-up vendors, Chinese New Year selfie wall, paper lantern making, dragon dance every hour on the hour, and more!
February TBA, 2025
PLANT PEOPLE ROAD SHOW - KAILUA-KONA
Location: Maka'eo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area. Time: 8am-1pm. Free to the public. Nine friendly mom and pop nurseries from the island's different regions share their secrets for "happy plants" at the Plant People Road Show. In addition, these plant-growing experts sell selections geared for spring planting, plus blooming specimens and cut flower stems ready for Valentine gift giving. Contact 808-987-3231 and follow Plant People Road Show on Facebook for more info.
February TBA, 2025
WILIWILI FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
The 14th Annual Wiliwili Festival will be held on Saturday, February 10th from 9am to 3pm at the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve. Wiliwili are keystone species in the lowland dry forest, and this year's festival will give you the opportunity to see these beautiful trees in their natural environment! The Wiliwili Festival will feature exhibitors presenting activities and educational materials at booths set up along the preserve, guided hikes, workshops, food vendors, a native plant give away and a silent auction. Free to the public. For more info, visit Click Here.
February TBA, 2025
CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION - QUEENS' MARKETPLACE, WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
There will be live entertainment around the shops and the opportunity to feed the Chinese lions to bring good fortune into the New Year.
February TBA, 2025
KAILUA-KONA LIBRARY BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold a book sale inside the Kailua Kona Public Library lobby from 11am-3pm Feb. 23, and 9am-12pm Feb. 24.The tables will be overflowing with Special Books, Hawaiiana, Children's (including YA), Paperback Trades and Non-Fiction. Please mark your calendar, bring a shopping bag, and plan to attend! All proceeds help to fund the libraries of Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona.
February TBA, 2025
SOKO (SOUTH KONA ARTISTS COLLECTIVE) ANNUAL STUDIO TOUR
Time: 9am-4pm both days, take a self-guided art discovery tour, visiting local artists in their studios along the scenic Kona coast. This year, 21 artists at 13 locations are participating. Whether you are an experienced art collector or just love being around art, this is an amazing opportunity to peek into the creative spaces of Kona's artists, see art demonstrations, and purchase local art directly from the artists. You can talk with the artists about their inspirations and techniques and stop at local cafes along the way for coffee and lunch. A wide range of fine art and small handcrafted gifts and cards are available for sale. For more info, visit sokoartists.com or the group's facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SOKOartists.
February TBA, 2025
18th ANNUAL HAWAI'I ISLAND LIVING AND DESIGN EXPO - OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT, KEAUHOU
Details to be announced.
March
March TBA, 2025
30th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL
To be held at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Resort Lu'au Grounds. Ages: 21+. Find festival details at KonaBrewersFestival.com.
March TBA, 2025
ANNUAL BUDDHA DAY CELEBRATION - HONALO, KONA
The program will be held both in person at Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple at 81-6630 Hawai'i Belt Road, and virtually via Zoom. Contact Rev. Blayne Higa at bhiga@honpahi.org or at (808) 323-2993 for more info. This event is free, but donations are welcome.
March TBA, 2025
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
For more information, visit www.folkhawaii.com.
April
TBA, 2025
MERRIE MONARCH HULA FESTIVAL - AFOOK CHINEN CIVIC AUDITORIUM, HILO
The prestigious hula competition is always an exciting time on the island. Please visit www.merriemonarch.com for more details.
TBA, 2025
MERRIE MONARCH ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR - AFOOK CHINEN CIVIC AUDITORIUM AND BUTLER BUILDING, HILO
The official arts and crafts fair of the Merrie Monarch Festival, supporting Hawai'i's artisans and creators, will take place Wednesday-Friday from 9am-5pm, and Saturday from 9am-4pm. Free Admission.
TBA, 2025
ANNUAL HAWAI'I ARTS, CRAFTS & FOOD FESTIVAL - NANI MAU GARDENS, HILO
The Hawaii Arts, Crafts & Food Festival, held during Merrie Monarch Week will take place from 9am-4pm each day. This event celebrates the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii's diverse people, its environment, and its food.There will be live performances and music throughout the event. Admission is free. For more information, call (808) 981-0518, email hawaiiartsandcrafts@yahoo.com or visit hawaiiartsandcraftsfestival.com.
April TBA, 2025
KONA STEEL GUITAR FESTIVAL - OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT & SPA, KEAUHOU
Featuring a great lineup of steel players. Free to the public. The event's emcee will be Kimo Kahoano. For more information about the festival events, visit konasteelguitarfestival.com.
April TBA, 2025
NORTH KOHALA COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER'S 7th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER - HAPUNA GOLF COURSE
The North Kohala Community Resource Center’s annual golf tournament will be held at Mauna Kea Resort's Hapuna Golf Course. Check-in for the four-person scramble tournament begins at 7:30am with a shotgun start at 8:30am. North Kohala Community Resource Center, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, enters its 23rd year of community support in 2025, possible through donors and sponsors who recognize the vital services, support, and programs NKCRC provides. Visit northkohala.org/golf to register or call 808-889-5523.
April TBA, 2025
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY - 1st DAY OF NATIONAL PARK WEEK
No entry fees to our national parks!
April TBA, 2025
12th ANNUAL BIG ISLAND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA BEACH MARRIOT RESORT
Details: BigIslandChocolateFestival.com or email info@bigislandchocolatefestival.com.
May
May 1, 2025
HILO LEI DAY FESTIVAL 2025
May Day is Lei Day in Hawai'i. Come celebrate lei culture on May 1st in beautiful downtown Hilo, at Kalakaua Park, featuring live Hawaiian music, hula halau, lei making demonstrations and more! No vendors or food trucks. Please bring your own chairs, mats, and snacks. Natural shade provided by Hilo's wonderful, big old trees.
May 1, 2025
LEI DAY ENTERTAINMENT AT QUEENS' MARKETPLACE - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Celebrate Lei Day with live music, lei making, 'ukulele lessons and a hula show finale. Face painting and lawn games fo the keiki, too! Live music and hula.
May TBA, 2025
JAPANESE CHILDREN'S DAY FESTIVAL (KODOMO NO MATSURI) - HILO
The Japanese Community Association of Hawaii is proud to bring back this special Children's Day Festival at the Sangha Hall in Hilo, with free activities, food and live performances for children and adults of all ages. A variety of make-and-take cultural activities will be available for all: sakana tsuri (fish catching), origami, kabuto hats, calligraphy, koinobori (koi streamers), kazeguruma (pinwheels), Japanese children games, hakozukuri (paper boxes), somen nagashi, air brush tattoos, and more! In addition, an assortment of Food Trucks will be on site. For more info, follow @kodomonomatsuri on Facebook and Instagram.
May TBA, 2025
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY MOTHER'S DAY SHOW & SALE - MAKAEO COUNTY PAVILION, OLD AIRPORT BEACH PARK
The Kona Orchid Society Mother's Day Show & Sale will take place inside and out of the Maka'eo County Pavilion at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area.The nominal cash admission fee includes a host of educational offerings. The event fun includes a display of blooming orchids by club members (bring your camera!) and a sale presenting a wide selection of healthy plants from Hawai'i Island growers. In addition to numerous orchid varieties from eight vendors, choose from cactus, succulents, air plants, anthuriums, heliconia, bonsai, and protea. Also for sale will be a wide variety of crafted merchandise: hanging planters, arts and crafts, black pearl and crystal jewelry, pottery, designer purses, aprons and kimonos, painting, stanined glass, plus high fire functiionall stoneware. Jams, jellies, pickled veggies and food booths offering sushi, ahi sandwiches, pastries and coffee will be sold, as well. Free boxes will be available while supples last to carry purchases. Club members will offer a variety of educational opportunities from 10am-1pm, including repotting demonstrations, Q&A on plant pests and diseases, and more - a chalkboard will list the times during the show. Attendees are invited to talk story with growers and on-site master gardeners for tried-and-true growing tips, also learn about invasive species and how to deal with Little Fire Ants.
May TBA, 2025
WESTERN WEEK BLOCK PARTY - HONOKA'A
Honoka’a's main street will be closed for this party, which will include live music, a Saloon Girls Contest, a Cowboy's Got Talent contest, beer tents, vendors and more.
May TBA, 2025
HOSPICE OF KONA FOUNDATION'S CASINO NIGHT GALA FUNDRAISER - WESTIN HAPUNA BEACH RESORT
The Casino Night Gala is a fundraiser to support the programs and services of Hospice of Kona. Guests will enjoy a night of fun, with casino gaming, food and wine, raffle prizes and a silent auction, at the beautiful Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. For more info, visit this link or email info@hospiceofkona.org.
June
June 1-8, 2024
KA'U COFFEE FESTIVAL
Many Festival events, which will take place at various locations, are free, while others require a nominal fee and reservations. The Grand Finale Ho’olaule'a will be from 9am-5pm on June 8th at the Pahala Community Center. For the latest information, visit www.kaucoffeefestival.com.
June 7-9, 2024
7th ANNUAL HAWAI'I KUAULI PACIFIC & ASIA CULTURAL FESTIVAL - KAILUA-KONA
An exciting 3-day event held in Kailua-Kona on Kamehameha Day weekend at the Courtyard Marriott's King Kamehamehaʻs Kona Beach Hotel. (June 8th is the Fireknife Competition.)The weekend will be filled with cultural festivities, workshops, entertainment and educational programs. The focus of this festival is to support the local economy, promotion of Hawai'i Island, Pacific & Asian cultural education, and to support community equity with those participating in the festival and those attending the festival worldwide. Visit www.hikuauli.com for more details.
June 8, 2024
KAI 'OPUA CANOE CLUB'S KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY REGATTA/CRAFT FAIR/ROAD CLOSURE INFO - KAILUA-KONA
The Kai 'Opua Canoe Club will host the annual Kamehameha Day canoe regatta at Kailua Pier. Racing will begin at 8 a.m. Canoe clubs from around Hawai'i iisland will gather at Kailua Pier for races all through the day. Ka'ahumanu Place will be closed on Friday at midnight, until Saturday at 6:30pm for the annual Kamehameha Day Canoe Regatta Craft Fair, which will also include a food booth. Email info@kaiopua.org for more details.
June 8, 2024
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION PARADE - KAILUA-KONA
Featuring more than 100 riders on horseback, the annual parade and ho’olaule'a (music and art festival) fittingly return this year on Kamehameha Day in Historic Kailua Village. Kamehameha Day is a state and county holiday established in 1871 to honor Kamehameha the Great, who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 and became Hawaii's first king. He died in 1819. This year's parade begins at 9 a.m. on Kuakini Highway, near the Palani Road intersection, and travels down Palani to Kailua pier, then southbound down Alii Drive through the village to Royal Kona Resort. Adorned in the flowers and colors of the Hawaiian Islands, pa'u riders on horseback will represent each of the eight islands, led by their respective princesses and the pa'u queen. The equestrian units are joined by cultural representatives, floats and other community entries. To participate in the parade, visit konaparade.org/applications. Other help needed includes volunteers to work with police officers to help secure road closures and vendors to participate in the ho’olaule'a at Hulihe'e Palace following the parade. For more details on the parade, visit konaparade.org.
June 8, 2024
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY HO'OLAULE'A - KAILUA-KONA
From 11:30am-3pm, enjoy live Hawaiian music at Hulihe'e Palace in honor of King Kamehameha on his day of celebration.
June 9, 2024
39th ANNUAL KONA DAIFUKUJI ORCHID CLUB SHOW AND SALE - HONALO, KONA
This much-awaited annual event will take place from 8am to 12pm on Sunday, June 8th, at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall (79-7241 Mamalahoa Hwy.). View colorful displays of flowering orchids. Cameras are welcome. This year's focus will be highlighting creative and narural ways to mount and display orchids. Buy high-quality, locally grown orchids and hybrids. Bring your questions or ailing orchids to the "orchid doctor" for guidance. Demonstarations on how to care for your orchids will be held every half hour, starting at 8:30am. Taiko drummers will perform at 10am. Take a self-guided tour of the mission's on-site Orchid Grotto to learn ways to harmonize and beautify a rock garden with orchids. Get Orchid Club updates at www.facebook.com/orchidsinparadise
June 11, 2024
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION - NORTH KOHALA
Hawaiians set aside June 11 annually as a state holiday to honor the legacy of King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian islands in 1795. As the king's birthplace, North Kohala plays a very special role in the celebration. The original statue of King Kamehameha I, which was once thought lost at the bottom of the sea, has stood proudly in North Kohala since 1912. This year, statue decoration ceremonies will begin at 7:00am with Protocol, Royal Procession, hula halau performances and receiving the 20 ft. lei, culminating with the King's statue in Kapaʻau being draped with lei at 8am. Ceremonies include participation by the Royal Order of Kamehameha, members of the Hawaiian Civic Club and Ka'ahumanu Society. From 9:00-10:00am, the colorful floral parade will take place, featuring traditional Hawaiian pāʻū riders and honorees. Hoʻolauleʻa festivities will also be held in Kapaʻau's King Kamehameha Park, featuring live Hawaiian music.
June 14 and 15, 2024
KAILUA-KONA PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK), will hold book sales inside the Kailua-Kona Public Library lobbyfrom 11am-3pm on Friday, and 9am-Noon on Saturday. All sales directly support the Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona public libraries. For more information, visit folkhawaii.com.
June 15, 2024
O-BON FEST 2024 - OLD AIRPORT RECREATION AREA, KAILUA-KONA
This Japanese cultural event will be held at Makae’o Pavillion from 5-9pm; Bon dance to start at 6pm.There will be a craft fair and food vendors. Fun for the whole family. Brought to you by Kona Hongwanji and Kona Daifukuji.
June 19, 2024
FEE FREE DAY AT OUR NATIONAL PARKS
In honor of the Juneteenth holiday, there will be no entrance fees to our parks!
June 19-22, 2024
27th ANNUAL LAUHALA WEAVING CONFERENCE CRAFT FAIR - OUTRIGGER, KEAUHOU
Presented by Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona, "ensuring the perpetuation of the beloved and ancient art of lauhala weaving."
June 21-23, 2024
PLAY TO BENEFIT ALOHA THEATER - KAINALIU
The Pulitzer Prize-winning drama The Gin Game, written by Donald L. Coburn, will be live on stage at the Aloha Theater in Kainaliu from Friday, June 21, through Sunday, June 23. Seasoned local actors John Holliday and Kerry Matsumoto play Weller Martin and Fonsia Dorsey, two residents in a senior living facility, who begin playing gin rummy. In the course of their games they talk about their lives and families and future. The interaction is “spirited" - so much so that when Dick Van Dyke and Mary Tyler Moore appeared in a televised version on PBS in 2003, their spirited verbal sparring gave the show a "parental guidance" warning! This three show-only production is a benefit for Aloha Performing Arts Company, with everybody involved in the production donating their time. Tickets are $30, or $25 for those over 65 or under 18. Performances are Friday, June 21 and Saturday June 22 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, June 23 at 23:30 p.m. Select your seats now online at www.AlohaTheater.com (scroll down to The Gin Game), or at the door one hour before show time. Beer, wine, water, and snacks will be available for purchase.
June 30, 2024
MAKAHA SONS BENEFIT CONCERT FOR DAIFUKUJI SOTO MISSION KONA HONGWANJI
The iconic Hawaiian music trio will perform at 5pm (Social Hall doors open at 4:30pm) to benefit the temple in Honalo (next to Teshima’s restaurant).
Call the temple office at 808-323-2993 to purchase tickets. $45 Presale/$55 Door.
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