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June
June 3, 2023
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.
June 10, 2023
KAI 'OPUA CANOE CLUB'S KING KAMEMEHA DAY REGATTA/CRAFT FAIR/ROAD CLOSURE INFO - KAILUA-KONA
On June 10, the Kai ‘Opua Canoe Club will host the 50th 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, June 9, midnight, until Saturday, June 10 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 9-11, 2023
6th ANNUAL HAWAI'I KUAULI VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON 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.The weekend will be filled with cultural festivities, workshops, entertainment and educational programs. Friday evening is an opening Hawaiian Protocol welcoming the visiting cultural groups representing the Pacific & Asia in the festival. Later in the evening hula hālau participate in a Hula Hōʻike paying tribute to the Kamehameha Dynasty. On Saturday, start the day watching the Kamehameha Day Parade on Aliʻi Drive, then stroll the Hawaiʻi Kuauli Marketplace and Wearable Arts Exhibit inside the resortʻs mall area and participate in Cultural Workshops. Saturday evening, watch an international group of fireknife dancers compete to be crowned champion of the Le Kaua Ailao Fireknife Competition in junior and senior divisions. Sunday brunch is held at the Taste of Pacific & Asia with various visiting and local chefs offering tastings of their Pacific & Asian favorites. Vote with a live audience for the winning chef of the 3rd Annual Mystery Box Challenge champion. This event has become one of Hawaii's first festivals to develop both a virtual and in-person format. 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 10, 2023
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‘olaulea at Hulihe‘e Palace following the parade. The committee is also hoping for a volunteer to spearhead community outreach for floats and donations. For more details on the parade, visit konaparade.org.
June 11, 2023
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 8:00am, culminating with the King's statue in Kapaʻau being draped with 20-foot floral and ti lei, with hula, chant, history, and music. 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.
June 24, 2023
11th ANNUAL HAWAI'I ISLAND LGBTQ+ PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL - HILO
To be held at Moʻoheau Bandstand, Hilo.
July
July 4, 2023
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, 2023
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS - KAILUA-KONA
Parade at 6pm; Fireworks over Kailua Bay at 8pm.
July 4, 2023
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 TBA, 2023
NATIVE HAWAIIAN PLANT SALE - AMY GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN
Across from the Manago Hotel, at 82-6160 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Captain Cook, HI. Featuring hundreds of the rare and beautiful ālula (Brigamia Insignis), once nearly extinct and now endangered. Help preserve the rarest of the rare by purchasing your own nursery propagated ālula, or any of the Garden's other nursery grown native plant selections. All proceeds support the Garden, a not-for-profit community forest and legacy lands organization. Please visit www.amygreenwell.garden for more info.
July TBA, 2023
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. Hours: July 29, Friday, 9 am-6 pm; July 30, Saturday, 9 am-5 pm; July 31, Sunday 10 am-2 pm. Ticket prices are: Adult - $5, 18 or under - Free; Superpass good for 3 days - $8.
Tickets will also be available from any member of the Hilo Orchid Society for $3 if purchased prior to the show.
July 8, 2023
AFTERNOON BON DANCE AT DAIFUKUJI SOTO MISSION - HONALO
Daifukuji Soto Mission invites the public to their afternoon Bon Dance, Saturday July 8, from 3 to 6:30pm. A Kona heritage building, the temple is located at 79-7241 Mamalahoa Highway, next to Teshima’s Restaurant in Honalo. A Bon Dance is a festival that features traditional and modern Japanese folk dancing and taiko drumming in honor of the ancestors. These festivals are held at various Buddhist temples throughout the summer months and are open to the public. The event is free, with refreshments available for purchase, and is ADA accessible. There will be a Taiko drumming performance, as well. Parking on the lawn. Gift Shop will be open. Dance classes will begin June 6 at 7pm in the social hall, in preparation for the Bon Dance. For more information, call 808-322-3524 or visit www.www.daifukuji.org/.
July TBA, 2023
3rd ANNUAL 'OHIA LEHUA RUN - VOLCANO
Time: 7:00 a.m.; Location: Volcano Village.
Cost of the event:
Half Marathon (13.1 miles) $90
5 km (3.1 miles) $50
Description: The 'Ohi’a Lehua Run will start and finish at The Volcano School of Arts & Sciences campus on Old Volcano Road.
July 22-23, 2023
14th 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. Players will receive free food and drinks and be automatically entered in a raffle for a week's stay at a Las Vegas resort. This is the biggest non-sanctioned United States Tennis Association (USTA) tournament in the state of Hawaii. It is perennially one of the most popular and anticipated sporting event of the year on the island with players from across the state and the mainland. Not only is there lots of competitive tennis, there are also fun activities for the whole family such as Dunk for Prizes, Spin-for-Win Wheel of Fortune, Silent Auction, Vendor Booths, Souvenir Shop, Ono Grindz, and more. For more information about this event, please visit www.FilAmHawaii.com.
August
August 4, 2023
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE GREAT AMERICAN OUTDOORS ACT
No entry fees to our national parks!
August TBA, 2023
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION - HILO
Location: Waiākea High School Student Parking Lot (B). Bring your own automotive fluids, chemicals and poisons and other hazardous household wastes to the Waiākea High School Student (upper) Parking Lot collection area (via W. Kāwili Street). Certain restrictions apply. Not Accepted: business or farm waste, electronics, explosives or flares, radioactive materials, tires, latex paint, fire extinguishers, bio/infectious waste. No container returns. COVID safety rules apply: Wear masks and stay 6 ft apart from others; remain in your vehicle unless directed; place items (preferably labeled) in trunk or truck bed. For more info, visit HawaiiZeroWaste.org, or call (808) 961-8554.
August TBA, 2023
ANNUAL MANGO FESTIVAL - KAILUA-KONA
To be held at Hale Halawai on Ali'i Drive, downtown Kailua-Kona. This is a free, zero-waste event. Free, but onations are appreciated. Featuring Local Arts and Crafts; Farmer's Market, Mango Grafting, Care and Growing Info/Demos; Mango Food Preparation and Tasting; Delicious Vegan Foods, Grafted Mango Trees for Sale; Panel Discussions. For more info, visit mangofest.org.
August 18-19, 2023
1st HANA NO'EAU HAWAIIAN ARTS FESTIVAL - HILO
Na Makua presents a new Big Island event - free to the public - to be held at Edith Kanaka'ole Tennis Stadium, and 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. Details to be announced.
August TBA, 2023
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY SUMMER SHOW & SALE
Browse and talk story at the Kona Orchid Society Show & Sale 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Makae'o County Pavilion at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area. Small admission fee. 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 air plants, bonsai, protea, cactus, succulents, fruit trees, tropicals, water plants, herbs, vegetable starts and bedding plants. Jams, jellies and high-fire functional stoneware will also be sold. Veteran club members will start demonstrations on re-potting orchids at 10 a.m. Attendees are invited to chat with on-site master gardeners for expert growing tips and problem-solving remedies. Learn about invasive species from the non-profit organization, Plant Pono at noon. Visit the “plant doctor” at 1 p.m. with a photo of your sick plant or a sample leaf in a securely closed bag. For more info, visit konaorchidsociety.org
September
September TBA, 2023
ANNUAL QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI OUTRIGGER LONG-DISTANCE CANOE RACE - KONA
The event’s signature 18-mile long-distance race is scheduled for 7:30 a.m., 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 will include the Hulakai OC4 8 Person Relay, the teens single hull race, the Wa‘a Kaulua double-hull canoe races and the Kupuna Classic. Other activities will include the Historic Kailua Village Cultural Walk; International Paddlers’ Reception; arts, crafts and food booths; Torchlight Parade; and the Queen Lili‘uokalani Canoe Race Lu'au.
September 2, 2023
POKE & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL - KAILUA-KONA
Celebrating the 50th Annual Queen Lili'uokalani Long-Distance Canoe Races, this event will feature a Poke Contest for professionals and amateurs alike; entertainment; vendor booths; keiki games; food and drink. To be held in the parking lot of Umeke's Restaurant (74-5599 Pawai Pl., Kailua-Kona). Tickets available at umekesrestaurants.com.
September TBA, 2023
QUEEN LILI'UOKALANI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION - LILI'UOKALANI GARDENS, HILO
From 10am-3pm, enjoy a thrilling "Mass Hula" with many local halau participating together; a flower drop; Hawaiian games and demos; children's games; tea ceremony; and more free family fun. Entertainment will include many favorite local Hawaiian musicians.
September TBA, 2023
KONA PRIDE FESTIVAL 2022
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 TBA, 2023
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) is holding their Book Sale on the lanai of the Kailua Kona Library from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. Book Sales have nice selections and great prices. Cash or check only. Proceeds from book sales help support special programs and the needs of the Kona libraries. As always, volunteers are welcome. Visit www.folkhawaii.com for more details.
September TBA, 2023
26th ANNUAL HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY FESTIVAL - OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT, KEAUHOU
Featuring Ledward Ka'apana and 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.
September 21, 2023
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 TBA, 2023
KA ULU LAUHALA O KONA 26th ANNUAL LAUHALA CONFERENCE
For more information, visit the Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona page on facebook.
September, 2023
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY
No entry fees to our national parks!
October
October TBA, 2023
KONA HONGWANJI 126th ANNIVERSARY BON DANCE & CRAFTS FAIR
Dancing, ono food, shopping and fun for the whole family. Bon Odori, AKA Bon Dance, originally from Japan, has been a Hawaiian tradition for over 130 years. Bon Odori is a style of folk dance performed at festivals in Japan during the Obon season. Deeply important and influential in Japanese culture, Obon is as important as other cultures' New Years celebrations. Kona Hongwanji Mission's Address: 81-6630 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Kealakekua, HI 96750.
October TBA, 2023
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) is holding their Book Sale inside the Kailua Kona Library this time instead of the lanai, from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. Book Sales have nice selections and great prices. Cash or check only. Proceeds from book sales help support special programs and the needs of the Kona libraries. As always, volunteers are welcome. Visit www.folkhawaii.com for more details.
October TBA, 2023
RUN FOR THE DRY FOREST: DASH TO THE TOP! 5K/10K 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. After two years of Covid-related cancellations and postponements the Run for the Dry Forest (RDF) is back at Pu'uwa'awa'a! RDF is a 10km run, 5km run/walk and 1/4-mile keiki run. You can choose to run or walk a 5km course (suitable for most people) or do a 10km run (an "extreme trail running experience" featuring a 1200 ft elevation gain in the first 3 miles). There is also a free fun, non-competitive 1/4-mile keiki run on flat surfaces; parents are welcome to join the kids. 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. PLEASE NOTE: No pets are allowed, as there are endangered nene geese in the area. Cost: $35 per entrant for 5k/10k. For more information, contact the race director at 808-315-5101, email edith.d.adkins@hawaii.gov or visit the Pu‘uwa‘awa‘a Facebook page.
October TBA, 2023
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. 29 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, 2023
ABLED HAWAI'I ARTISTS 15th ANNUAL ART FESTIVAL
Hawai‘i County celebrates a renaissance of inclusion in the arts, with Abled Hawai‘i Artists (AHA) annual art festival, held at the Puna Kai Shopping Center in Pahoa, 10am to 3pm. AHA promotes disability awareness and pride by celebrating the spectrum of creativity, while promoting inclusive entrepreneurship in the arts. This is a free event also incorporates speeches by disability self advocates and important community leaders. Enjoy free healing arts demonstrations, express the artist in you with various free, all-ages and abilities art making activities..
October TBA, 2023
HALLOWEEN TRUNK OR TREAT EVENT AT KONA COMMONS
This free event, which will take place at the Kona Commons Center parking lot near Office Max/Petco, will be hosted by Hawaii Racing Assn. Cars will be decorated for Halloween and will offer treats, music, a costume contest, and giveaways.
November
November TBA, 2023
BIG ISLAND BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION'S PEOPLE'S CHOICE HAWAII HONEY CHALLENGE - HILO
The 12th annual Challenge will be held from 5:30-8:30pm at Mokupapapa Discovery Center, 76 Kamehameha Ave.
Categories are Liquid Honey (light, medium, dark), Solid Honey, and Honeycomb. Stop by and vote for your favorite raw honey!
November 11, 2023
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING OUR MILITARY VETERANS
No entry fees to our national parks!
November TBA, 2023
HAWAI'I ISLAND VETERANS DAY PARADE - HILO
10 am start time at Wailea State Park and Pauahi St., downtown Hilo. Grand Marshal this year is Gold Star Families and Their Loved Ones. For more information, visit www.hivetparade.org.
November TBA, 2023
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, 2023
HOLUALOA COFFEE & ART STROLL
Check out this popular Coffee Festival event in the artists' colony of Holualoa. From 9am-3pm there will be 35+ Hawai'i coffee farm vendors represented, tasty treats and local goods. Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2023
KONA COFFEE FESTIVAL HO'OLAULEA
At Maka'eo Pavilion at Old Airport State Park from 9am-3pm (Annual Lei Contest from 10am-1pm). Live entertainment, an ethnic food market, and arts & crafts. for more info, visit Kona Coffee Festival Events.
November TBA, 2023
17th ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO KING DAVID KALAKAUA - KEAUHOU, KONA
A tribute to the "Merrie Monarch King" will take place at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa's Bayview Grounds, with kumu hula from Hawai'i and Europe presenting their styles and traditions of hula. Arts and crafts vendors will be featuring quality locally made items, and food will also be available for sale. The hula presentations will take place from 8am. 3pm. Admission is free, so bring the 'ohana! No outside food or coolers, please. For more info, visit emauanakahula.org.
November TBA, 2023
21st 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.
November TBA, 2023
ANNUAL HILO CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA CRAFT FAIR
The Annual Hilo Christmas Extravaganza Craft Fair will be held at the Edith Kanaka`ole Multipurpose Stadium, 350 Kalanikoa St, Hilo, HI. There is a small entry fee; keiki under 12 free. Shop local with all your favorite artists and crafters! For more information or if you are interested in becoming a vendor, visit malamaponoevents.com.
November TBA, 2023
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) is holding a Book Sale inside the Kailua-Kona Library from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. Book Sales have nice selections and great prices. Cash or check only. Proceeds from book sales help support special programs and the needs of the Kona libraries. As always, volunteers are welcome. Visit www.folkhawaii.com for more details.
November TBA, 2023
KONA PALISADES OPEN STUDIO ART TOUR AND SALE
Self-guided art tour for local artists hosted at locations in Kona Palisades from 10 am to 4pm.
Visit the artists' facebook page for details.
November TBA, 2023
VOLCANO ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR
The Volcano Village Artists Hui Annual Studio Tour and Sale returns this year with a full slate of artists. Now in its 37th year, the Studio Tour will take place over Thanksgiving weekend.
Four 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 painting and prints; hand blown art glass; 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.
December
December TBA, 2023
NA MAKUA INVITATIONAL GIFT FAIR - HILO
Join the company of some of Hawaii's best artist and producers of fine handmade crafts and gifts at this free annual event, to be held at their new location at Edith Kanaka'ole Tennis Stadium. There will be live performances by top local entertainers, ono food and door prizes. Visit www.namakua.com for more info.
December TBA, 2023
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, 2023
25th 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, 2023
17th ANNUAL PARADISE STUDIO ART TOUR - PUNA
The public is invited for free to visit artists in their home studios in Hawaiian Paradise Park, Keaau, Puna District. Seven studios with 25 local artists are showing oil painting, watercolors, collage, pastels, acrylic, wood, sculpture, jewelry making, pottery, ceramics, silk painting, fashion art, photography and more. Free, with featured demos and music. For more info, and map, visit www.paradisestudiotour.com for more info.
December TBA, 2023
KAILUA-KONA CHRISTMAS PARADE
5 pm start. Please visit www.folkhawaii.com for more details.
December TBA, 2023
HANDEL'S "MESSIAH" AND VIVALDI'S "GLORIA" ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
Presented by the Kona Choral Society. Visit www.konachoralsociety.org for more info.
December TBA, 2023
7th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK - HILO
Lili'uokalani Gardens will be festooned with lights for all to enjoy.
December TBA, 2023
CHRISTMAS EVE IMU FUNDRAISER - KAILUA-KONA
Drop off your turkeys, pork, chickens, duck, ham, "and one guy put in moose meat one year," at Ma'ona Community Garden in Captain Cook. Make your reservations online at Ma'ona Community Garden Fundraiser 2022.
January
January TBA, 2024
ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION - KAILUA-KONA
This large community event will be held at Maka'eo Pavilion, Old Airport Beach Park, Kailua-Kona. There will be food, entertainment, speeches, and an art exhibit by local school children to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. For more info, please contact Jasmin Kiernan at jasmink01@aol.com, or phone 808-756-4111.
January TBA, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING MARTIN LUTHER KING'S BIRTHDAY
No entry fees to our national parks!
January TBA, 2024
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) is holding their Book Sale inside the Kailua Kona Public Library lobby from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. Book Sales have nice selections and great prices. Cash or check only. Proceeds from book sales help support special programs and the needs of the Kona libraries. As always, volunteers are welcome. Visit www.folkhawaii.com for more details.
January TBA, 2024
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION - HONOKA'A
Celebrate the Year of the Water Rabbit in Honoka'a! From 10am till 6pm, there will be a 100 foot dragon dance every hour on the hour, origami and Chinese lantern making, food vendors and more.
January TBA, 2024
KWXX HO'OLAULE'A - DOWNTOWN HILO
This free annual outdoor music event will take place in downtown Hilo, and will feature many popular Hawaiian musicians. Visit www.kwxx.com for more details.
February
February 4, 2023
ANNUAL WAIMEA CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Headquartered from Church Row Park and Parker Ranch Center, the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival is planning in-person festivities from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Community organizers are planning a full lineup of fun in 2023 after cancellation of last year’s festival due to COVID concerns. 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 8, 2023
"AN EVENING OF KLEZMER JOY" CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
Featuring Rebecca Roudman and Jason Eckl of the San Francisco Yiddish Combo, the event will begin at 6:30pm at the Kona Educational Center at Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens (formerly Kona Outdoor Circle), 76-6280 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona. Featuring classically trained musicians, the San Francisco Yiddish Combo presents a unique blend of everything that is Klezmer, mixed with some jazz, blues, folk, and even hip hop - Klezmer for the 21st century. Suggested donation $18; Kona Beth Shalom members free; children under 18 free. RSVP to reserve seats at konabethshalom.org.
February 11, 2023
PLANT PEOPLE ROAD SHOW - KAILUA-KONA
Location: Maka'eo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area. 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 for more info.
February 13-24 2023
ANNUAL INVITATIONAL HAWAI'I WOOD GUILD SHOW - WAIMEA
See amazing creations by our island's finest woodworkers, on display at Isaacs Art Center at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy. The exhibit is free and open to the public, Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Check out this year's entries here: Hawai'i Wood Guild's Invitational Masters Show.
February 18, 2023
MARDI GRAS ON MAMANE - HONOKA'A
Celebration from 10am-6pm on Mamane Street. "Wear your best purple, green, and gold and come party with us! Food trucks will be serving up NOLA and Cajun style specials, live music to include Cajun funk, and [there will be] a free showing of The Princess and the Frog at the Honoka’a People’s Theatre!"
February 18 and 25, 2023
GIRL SCOUT COOKIE SALE - KONA COMMONS SHOPPING CENTER
Between 1:30 and 4:30 pm, purchase your Girl Scout cookie favorites! Kona Girl Scout Troop 277’s cookie sale booth will be located in front of Jeansʻ Warehouse at Kona Commons shopping center. Nine cookie flavors, including all your favorites, will be available to purchase. For those not familiar with these annual treats, flavors include Adventurefuls, Lemon-Ups, Trefoils, Do-si-dos, Samoas, Tagalongs, Thin Mints, Girl Scout S'mores and Toffee-tastics. Ask about this year’s new flavor – Raspberry Rally – which will be available for sale online soon. All proceeds from the sale will support activities for these Kona scouts throughout the year. For information about the Girl Scouts visit GirlScouts.org.
February 25, 2023
KAILUA-KONA LIBRARY BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold a book sale inside the Kailua Kona Public Library lobby on Saturday, Saturday, February 25 from 9:00- 12:00 noon. The sale includes 100s of titles to look through including Children’s, Paperback Trades, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Hawaiiana, Special Books & Vintage Comic Books. Each purchase directly benefits the Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona libraries.
February 25, 2023
2023 GROW HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL - CAPTAIN COOK
Time: 9am-2:30pm. A celebration of Hawaiian culture and natural history, to be held at Amy B. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. There will be speakers, cultural demonstrations, music, hands-on-activities, informational displays, Hawaiian arts market and food. Kapa making, poi pounding, wood carving. Weaving, taro and cordage-making experts will also be on hand. Bring in your mystery plants for botanists to identify! Also, there will be another fabulous native Hawaiian plant sale! For more info, visit www.amygreenwell.garden.
February 25-26, 2023
SOKO (SOUTH KONA ARTISTS) 7th ANNUAL ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR - SOUTH KONA
From 9am to 4pm both days, visit 23 South Kona artists in their studios at 15 locations along the winding and scenic Mamalahoa Highway from Keauhou throughout South Kona to Honaunau. Plan on a full day of learning and talking with the artists about their inspiration and techniques. A wide range of fine art, smaller items and gifts are available for sale. For directions, see map at SOKO Artists Studio Tour. For more info, email sokoartists@gmail.com.
March
March 11, 2023
28th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL
The 28th Annual Kona Brewers Festival is back in its original form, happening March 11th, 2023, from 4-7 pm, at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel lu'au grounds. Cost: $100 per person. This beloved event that sells out every year is hosted by The Ke Kai Ala Foundation, and is a community celebration and fundraiser that benefits Hawai’i programs supporting environment, culture and youth. Attendees can enjoy tastings of over 30 local and craft brews, gourmet bites from over 24 local chefs, live music, and the much anticipated Trash Fashion show. To promote sustainability, Kona Brewers Festival is a zero waste event and is made possible thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who do everything from pour beer, oversee operations to ensure zero waste, and throw a really great party. Beer lovers can kick off the day at BMW Hawai’i by participating in the 16th Annual Run for Hops 5K/10K Run/Walk on Saturday, March 11, at 7:30 a.m. The Trash Fashion Show showcases models who run the catwalk in elaborate haute couture fashions made from completely recycled materials and designed by local artists. As part of a zero waste commitment, over 90% of festival waste is diverted from landfills by converting waste into composted soil for local school gardens. Over the years, this event has raised more than $1.4 million in low restriction funds for island organizations. Find more details and festival updates at KonaBrewersFestival.com.
March 18, 2023
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) is holding their Lanai Book Sale in the lobby of the Kailua-Kona Library from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. There will be a collection of poster-sized American art reproductions for sale as well as an exciting variety of books to choose from including children’s, Hawaiiana, fiction, non-fiction, paperback trades, cookbooks and special books. Each purchase directly benefits the Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona libraries. For more information, visit www.folkhawaii.com.
March 23-25, 2023
KONA STEEL GUITAR FESTIVAL - OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT & SPA, KEAUHOU
Featuring a great lineup of players: Alan Akaka, Pomai Brown, Al Greene, Jr., Bobby Ingano, Kapono Lopes, Greg Sardinha, Dwight Tokumoto, Geri Valdriz. Free to the public. The event's emcee will be Kimo Kahoano. For more information about the festival events, visit konasteelguitarfestival.com.
March 26, 2023
KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS WORLD-RENOWNED VIOLINIST - WAIMEA
The Philharmonic is pleased to feature the world-renowned violinist Sirena Huang for this concert, which promises to be a musical feast for all classical music lovers and more. Sirena Huang is considered by many to be one of her generation’s most celebrated violinists. With her virtuosic playing, Sirena Huang has captivated audiences worldwide and has become a sought-after performer in major concert halls. Her soulful interpretation of some of the most beautiful pieces in classical music is a rare treat. In addition to Antonin Dvorak's Violin Concerto, the program also includes the Kamuela Philharmonic performing Johannes Brahms' Symphony No. 1. The concert will take place at 2pm at the Kahilu Theatre (67-1186 Lindsey Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743). For tickets and more information, visit the Philharmonic's Event page.
April
April 8, 2023
"PINS FOR PUPS" BOWLING FUNDRAISER - KAILUA-KONA
Benefiting Aloha 'Ilio Animal Rescue, this bowling tournament will take place from 10am-1pm at KBXtreme, 75-5591 Palani Rd. There will be games, prizes, a silent auction - fun for the whole family. All levels of bowlers are welcome. Restaurant and bar will be available. Please visit this page for more info and registration.
April 10-15, 2023
MERRIE MONARCH HULA FESTIVAL - AFOOK CHINEN CIVIC AUDITORIUM, HILO
The prestigious hula competition returns. The hula competion will take place the last three days - April 13-15. Twenty three halau will be participating this year; three from the Big Island, 14 from O'ahu, 4 mfrom Maui, and 1 each from Kaua'i and Washington State. Please visit www.merriemonarch.com for more details.
April 9-15, 2023
MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVITIES AT GRAND NANILOA HOTEL, HILO
To honor the 60th anniversary of the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, the Grand Naniloa Hotel will present six consecutive days of celebration from Monday, April 10 to Saturday, April 15. In conjunction with Hilo town events, guests and locals will enjoy engaging entertainment, a vibrant Mākeke (marketplace) featuring local artists and vendors, food and drinks, as well as a separate ticketed concert featuring top-selling Hawaiian vocalist Amy Hānaialiʻi. Courtesy of the non-profit Merrie Monarch organization, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo will showcase daily Hawaiian music and hula performances. Additionally, attendees are invited to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture at the hotel’s Mākeke, taking place Wednesday through Friday, in the hotel’s expansive event spaces including the Palm Lounge, Ho’omalimali, Sandalwood and the Crown Room. Each day from 10 am to 3 pm, the market will feature a treasure trove of beautiful handmade Hawaiian products including apparel, and jewelry, and pūpū, cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Night owls can continue the festivities at the hotel’s lobby bar until midnight each day. The Mākeke is open to the community and admission is free. Complimentary self-parking is located across the street at the Grand Naniloa Golf Course parking lot. Please visit the hotel's website for more entertainment details.
April 12-15, 2023
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.
April 13-15, 2023
ANNUAL HAWAII ARTS, CRAFTS & FOOD FESTIVAL - HILO
The Hawaii Arts, Crafts & Food Festival, held during Merrie Monarch Week, showcases some of the finest artisans, crafters, gift and food vendors throughout the state and the mainland. This event celebrates the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii's diverse people, its environment, and its food. Time: 9am-4pm at Nani Mau Gardens, 421 Makalika St. Hilo, 96720. Free prize giveaways, 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. Vendor space still available.
April 16, 2023
FREE SPRING CONCERT - KAILUA-KONA
1011 Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning group, Kulaiwi, will present a free Hawaiian music concert at Emma Square, across from Hulihe'e Palace on Ali'i Drive, at 4pm.
CANCELED - April 21-22, 2023
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARIES, KONA, BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) will hold a two-day book sale inside the Kailua Kona Public Library lobby from 11:00 a. m. to 3:00 p. m. on Friday, April 21st, and from 9:00 a. m. to noon on Saturday, April 22nd. There will be wide variety of books to choose from including children’s, Hawaiiana, fiction, non-fiction, paperback trades, cookbooks and special books. Each purchase directly benefits the Kealakekua and Kailua-Kona libraries. For more information, visit www.folkhawaii.com.
April 22, 2023
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY - 1st DAY OF NATIONAL PARK WEEK
No entry fees to our national parks!
April 22, 2023
MAKAHA SONS BENEFIT CONCERT FOR KONA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU
Kona Hospital Foundation is happy to announce the return of The Mākaha Sons, one of Hawaii's premier musical groups, to the Aloha Theatre. 2019 was the last time the Kona Hospital Foundation hosted a benefit concert to help their mission of improving the Kona Community Hospital for the entire community. The Mākaha Sons will be in concert on April 22nd, doors are at 6:30pm. Music will be from 7:30-9:30pm with a 15 minute intermission. All proceeds from ticket sales and opportunity drawing will go towards the Kona Hospital Foundation. Please visit the ticket sales page for more details.
April 27-29, 2023
BIG ISLAND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL - WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
The delicious flavors and aromas of chocolate will “Indulge the Senses” at the Big Island Chocolate Festival April 278-29 at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. The “Indulge the Senses with Chocolate” theme marks the festival’s 10th anniversary. In-person activities include culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a new VIP-PLUS pre-gala Sunset & Pupu Pairing and a festive evening gala with culinary booths, chocolate fountain, entertainment, dancing, a silent auction and some surprises! Guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer and a custom spritzer by Ola Brew, iced tea and coffee. At the gala, a panel of invited judges and attendees will again vote on best sweet and savory selections while culinary stations will vie in a contest for Best Decorated Booth to this year’s sensory theme. A photo booth will provide fun, playful props geared to the “Indulge the Senses” event theme. Details: BigIslandChocolateFestival.com or email
info@bigislandchocolatefestival.com.
May
May 1, 2023
HILO LEI DAY FESTIVAL 2023
May Day is Lei Day in Hawai'i. Come celebrate lei culture on May 1st in beautiful downtown Hilo, at Kalakaua Park from 10am to 2pm, 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 the wonderful, big old trees.
May 13, 2023
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY SPRING SHOW & SALE - MAKAEO COUNTY PAVILION, OLD KONA AIRPORT STATE RECREATION AREA
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the Kona Orchid Society Spring Show & Sale is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 13 inside and out at the Makaeo County Pavilion at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area. Admission is $2 cash and 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. Four 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. Molly Murphy of Plant Pono presents an informative display covering invasive plant species, and will guide attendees on the right (“pono”) planting choice for their landscape. Other educational offerings include:
• 10 a.m. - Melody Euaparadorn of the University of Hawaii’s Hawaii Ant Lab will discuss fighting little red fire ants.
• 11 a.m. - Orchidist Keith Kaufman demonstrates basic plant culture and repotting orchids.
• Noon - Phoenicia Zeller delves into landscaping with orchids and answers questions.
May 21, 2023
KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC POPS CONCERT - KAHILU THEATRE, WAIMEA
Since this concert falls on the weekend of Armed Services Day, a unique blend of light, famous classical works and beloved selections from both stage and silver screen with a very Americana will be performed, including famous works by George Gershwin, Aaron Copland, John Williams, Leroy Anderson, Henry Mancini, Victor Lopez, Calvin Custer, and more! Get ready to sing along to your favorite tunes and enjoy a musical experience that transcends generations. Some of Hawai‘i Island’s finest musicians, including the Philharmonic’s concertmaster, Ursula Vietze, and local powerhouse vocalist, Binti Bailey, will be featured.
Event time: 2pm
Tickets ($65/$35) available at: https://kamuelaphil.org
Event Page: https://kamuelaphil.org/event/pops/
Box Office: 808 885 6868; Contact Email: contact@kamuelaphil.org
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