What's sizzlin' on the Big Island
Big Island Event Calendar

Na Pai Kii o Brother Bertram

05/15/2009 - 10/31/2009 Cultural Natural History Exhibit-Show

Image courtesy Lyman Museum

A collection of rarely-viewed historic photographs of late 19th century Hawaii Island taken by Marianist Brother and pioneering photographer Bertram Bellinghausen between 1883 – 1905 make up this unique exhibit showcasing the landscape and people of the Big Island. At the Lyman Museum in Hilo. Call (808) 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.

"Hawaii Nei 2009" Art Show

06/13/2009 - 08/02/2009 Natural History Exhibit-Show

This is a unique show of art representing native species, the first juried art exhibition on Hawaii Island to celebrate native flora and fauna. The show features artists of all ages working in a wide variety of media. 9 a.m – 5 p.m. daily. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

O-Bon Dances

06/20/2009 - 08/29/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

Image courtesy Hawaii Hearld

In the Buddhist tradition, during the summer months Japanese residents welcome back the spirits of departed loved ones at lively and festive dance events called o-bon. There are 23 o-bon dances at various venues around the island of Hawaii set for this summer season: three in June, 12 in July and eight in August. For the schedule of dates, times and places, visit http://thehawaiiherald.com

Dance of the Warrior

06/30/2009 - 07/09/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

Along with hula, another important dance of Hawaii is the haa koa or “dance of the warrior.” A series of six classes in this seldom-taught dance will be offered over the course of two weeks at the Hilo High School gymnasium. Men and women, visitors and residents are invited to this free class. 4 – 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday weekly. (808) 989-4844 or e-mail pua@mamalahoa.org.

Educational Tours at NELHA

07/01/2009 - 07/31/2009 Natural History Exhibit-Show Ag Tourism

NELHA

NELHA - Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

The Friends of NELHA offers presentations and tours on Hawai`i Island’s sustainable future in food and energy Monday – Thursday weekly. NELHA presentations and abalone aquafarm tour/tasting Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; At NELHA in Kona. Fee. (808) 329-8073.

H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience

07/01/2009 - 07/31/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

Amy Greenwell Museum

Amy Greenwell Museum. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

Experience daily life in the Hawaiian Kingdom in the 1890’s at this general store, built by English immigrant Henry Greenwell. Costumed interpreters show you authentic goods of the day and provide a rare glimpse into Kona’s colorful past. 10 a.m – 2 p.m. Monday – Thursday in Kealakekua. Small fee. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org.

Kona Coast History Cruise

07/01/2009 - 07/31/2009 Cultural Natural History

Photo courtesy Body Glove

Get a waterborne perspective of the rich and diverse cultural history of the Kona Coast on this three-hour daily cruise which leaves from the Kailua Pier and travels 17 miles south to historic Kealakekua Bay aboard the 65-foot Kanoa II catamaran, with food, beverages and local musical entertainment. Educational, scenic and fun! Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com.

Artisan Farms Tour

07/01/2009 - 07/31/2009 Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

Visit three artisan farms in beautiful Ahualoa, upslope on the Northeast coast of Hawaii Island. Meet the owners and sample the products at these three farms – a coffee plantation, a tea garden and a honey company. Lots of unique and local flavor! By appointment only. Fee. Call (808)775-1000 or 775-1171 or visit www.hawaiianartisanfarms.com.

Hawaiiana Live

07/01/2009 - 07/29/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural

Photo courtesy Friends of the Palace Theater

A unique 45-minute cultural tourism program onstage. Experience Hawaiian history, traditions and culture through storytelling, film, music, oli and hula. Topics change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar. Newly restored pipe organ featured. Palace Theater in Hilo. Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5/children free. Call (808) 934-7010 or visit www.hilopalace.com

U.S. Air Force Band Hawaii Island Tour

07/02/2009 - 07/07/2009 Performing Arts

This 10-piece military ensemble is as talented as they get, performing Hawaiian and island music along with pop, rock, jazz and much more – a treat! Schedule: Thursday, July 2 Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo, noon; Saturday, July 4 Waikoloa Bowl at Waikoloa Beach Resort 6 p.m.; Monday, July 6, Kahilu Theatre in Waimea, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, July 7, Queens’ Marketplace at Waikoloa Beach Resort, 4 p.m. Visit www.bandofthepacific-hawaii.af.mil

Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking

07/02/2009 - 07/02/2009 Family Cultural Culinary

Take part in this historical re-creation – making and then baking traditional sweet bread in a wood-fired oven called a forno, the type used by Portuguese immigrants who came to Hawaii in the 1800’s. A tasty and hands on experience! At the H.N. Greenwell Store museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org

Annual Parker Ranch Rodeo

07/03/2009 Family Sports

00086.parker ranch

Steer roping at Parker Ranch, Kamuela, Hawaii's Big Island. Kirk Aeder

This award-winning Independence Day weekend tradition includes action-packed rodeo events, keiki (children) activities, delicious food and more. Parker Ranch paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) are joined by other Big Island paniolo for a corral of traditional rodeo events from 9 a.m. – noon at the Parker Ranch Arena in Waimea. Call (808) 885-5669 or visit www.parkerranch.com.

Kailua-Kona Independence Day Celebration

07/04/2009 Family Holiday

An annual event featuring live music, games, children’s activities, and the traditional parade (6 p.m.) along Alii Drive with the Hawai‘i County Band, floats, antique cars and more plus a fireworks display over Kailua Bay (8:30 p.m.). 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Coconut Grove Shopping Center. Call (808) 990-4263, email Julie @aceigo.com or visit www.konaparades.com.

Great Waikoloa Rubber Ducky Race & 4th of July Extravaganza

07/04/2009 Family Performing Arts Culinary Holiday

Photo courtesy Kings' Shops

An all day fundraiser for United Cerebral Palsy of Hawaii, the fun-filled event features a wild and wacky rubber ducky race, live entertainment, and lots of exciting activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Kings’ Lake. 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Call (808) 886-8811 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com.

Turtle Independence Day

07/04/2009 Family Natural History Holiday

Held purposefully every year on July 4, this different event educates people about endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles. Watch as the young honu (turtles), which have grown up in the ponds at the Mauna Lani Resort, are given their freedom as they are released back into the ocean. Call the Mauna Lani Resort at (808) 885-6622 to learn more.

South Kona Green Market

07/05/2009 - 07/26/2009 Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

Photo courtesy South Kona Green Market

Held every Sunday, this farmers market advocates Hawai‘i Island sustainability by featuring locally-sourced fruit, produce and other foods, plus handcrafted items. The SKGM features live music and educational lectures; Master Gardeners are available to offer free advice. Held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Amy B.H. Greenwell EthnoBotanical Gardens in Captain Cook. Visit their website at www.skgm.org.

Niaulani Nature Walk / Forest Tour

07/06/2009 - 07/27/2009 Family Natural History

Elder hostel Rainforest Hike by Paul J. Buklarewicz

Elder hostel Rainforest Hike by Paul J. Buklarewicz

Take a one-hour guided nature walk through an old-growth Hawaiian rain forest on an easy, half-mile loop trail. The walk introduces individuals, families, and groups to the native plants and birds of Volcano. Mondays at 9:30 a.m. at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Roads). Free. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
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Hawaii Volcanoes Cultural Festival

07/11/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Natural History

Held in the special setting of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this popular annual festival helps preserve and perpetuate the Hawaiian culture and traditional arts. Featuring Hawaiian music, hula, crafts sales and demonstrations by local artists and practitioners. 10 a.m – 3 p.m. Free. For more information call (808) 985-6166 or visit www.nps.gov/havo.

Bonsai Day

07/11/2009 Natural History Exhibit-Show

Bonsai, the traditional Japanese botanical practice of dwarfing or miniaturizing otherwise large plants and trees, has been practiced for centuries. Learn about this fascinating art form in demonstrations and workshops at Hawaii’s premier bonsai resource center. 2nd Saturday of each month at Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center in Kurtistown. Call (808) 982-9882 or visit www.fukubonsai.com

Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour

07/11/2009 Cultural Natural History Ag Tourism

Amy Greenwell Garden

Amy Greenwell Garden. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

This tour gives you an understanding of the role plants played and still play in the Hawaiian culture. More than 200 species of plants that grew in the traditional farms and native forests of Kona, including endemic, indigenous and Polynesian introduced plants. Free; 10 – 11:30 a.m. On Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell

"Cream of the Crop” Coffee Tasting

07/11/2009 Exhibit-Show Culinary Ag Tourism

This annual event features select Kona coffee farms vying for top awards. You can sample coffee (and vote for your favorite) as well as coffee desserts by area chefs and also learn about coffee growing. Also featuring coffee related arts and Hawaiian music. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Four Seasons Hualalai Resort in Kona.. Free. Call (808) 328-1666 or email jimmonk@alum.mit.edu.

Big Island Hawaiian Music Festival

07/18/2009 - 07/19/2009 Performing Arts

Enjoy authentic Hawaiian music – including ukulele, slack key and steel guitar – and falsetto singing at this two-day event at featuring artists from around Hawaii. At Hilo Bayfront Park from noon – 6 p.m. each day. Sponsored by the East Hawai‘i Cultural Center. Call (808) 935-9085 or visit www.ehcc.org for more information.

National Parks for Free

07/18/2009 - 07/19/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

Summer is family vacation time, and two Hawaii Island National Parks – Hawaii Volcanoes and Puuhonua o Honaunau – are waiving entry fees on three weekends, one each month in June, July and August. This is a chance for visitors and residents to take advantage of these special weekends and to see two of the best of America’s 391 national parks

Niaulani Forest Work Day

07/19/2009 Natural History

Enjoy the open air while volunteering to help restore the beauty and diversity of the native, old-growth rainforest at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. An opportunity to help the forest and connect with nature plus learn about the rich mixture of flora and fauna on this site. 9 a.m. – noon. Free. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

07/20/2009 - 07/24/2009 Sports

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

Courtesy Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of this storied fishing tournament, in which teams from Hawai‘i, the U.S. and around the world compete for five days to catch prized Pacific blue marlin and win the coveted HIBT’s Governor’s Trophy (no cash prizes are given). Most marlin caught are tagged and released to promote conservation. Call (808) 836-3422 or visit www.hibtfishing.com.

Agriculture and Sustainability in Hawaii

07/21/2009 Natural History Culinary Ag Tourism

Prior to the first Western contact in 1778, the ancient Hawaiians had developed ingenious methods of agriculture and land use to sustain large populations. Learn about their techniques for sustainability and how they apply today in this fascinating program. 7 p.m. Free at Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (808) 985-6014 or visit www.nps.gov/havo

Zoo Family Fun Day

07/25/2009 Family Natural History

A great chance for both kids and adults to enjoy the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States! This summer zoo party includes food, games, crafts, entertainment, petting zoo and a feeding of Namaste, the zoo’s rare white tiger. Get to know the unique and fascinating plant and animal collections found here. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens in Hilo. Free!

Daifukuji Orchid Club Show

07/26/2009 Exhibit-Show Ag Tourism

A colorful and popular annual Kona event, this year’s show focuses on growing orchids around the home in pots or gardens. Displays of blooming cattleya, cymbidium, dendrobium and other orchid varieties, with many for sale. Plus refreshments, taiko drum performance, educational displays. 8 a.m – 2 p.m. Daifukuji Mission Hall in Kainaliu. For information, call (808) 938-2123.

Hulihee Palace Concert

07/26/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

Photo courtesy Daughters of Hawaii and Hulihee Palace.

This historic Kona landmark presents a free concert featuring the Hulihee Palace Band and the Merrie Monarchs chorale, remembering King Kamehameha I who established the Hawaiian Kingdom. Post-concert, stroll Kailua village enjoying cafes, restaurants, local musicians and artists. Starts 4 p.m. on the lawn overlooking Kailua Bay. (808) 329-1877 or www.huliheepalace.org.

Kailua Village Stroll

07/26/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary

Spend a day strolling Alii Drive (which will be closed to traffic) in the charming town of Kailua Village, the heart of Kona and home to historical sites like Mokuaikaua Church and Hulihee Palace, beautiful seaside views, lots of friendly vendors and merchants, and restaurants offering a wide variety of food choices. From 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Mango Festival

08/01/2009 Performing Arts Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

Photo courtesy Keauhou Farmer's Market

An all-day mango mania event! Featuring Hawaii-grown and made food, cooking demos, live entertainment, mango growing education, mango art, and capped off with a marvelous mango-inspired dinner. From 8 a.m. until evening at the Farmer’s Market at Keauhou Shopping Center and also at the Keauhou Beach Resort. $10 admission. (808) 769-0672 or visit www.keauhoufarmersmarket.com.

Artisan Farms Tour

08/01/2009 - 08/31/2009 Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

Visit three artisan farms in beautiful Ahualoa, upslope on the Northeast coast of Hawaii Island. Meet the owners and sample the products at these three farms – a coffee plantation, a tea garden and a honey company. Lots of unique and local flavor! By appointment only. Fee. Call (808)775-1000 or 775-1171 or visit www.hawaiianartisanfarms.com.

Kona Coast History Cruise

08/01/2009 - 08/31/2009 Natural History Culinary

Get a waterborne perspective of the rich and diverse cultural history of the Kona Coast on this three-hour daily cruise which leaves from the Kailua Pier and travels 17 miles south to historic Kealakekua Bay aboard the 65-foot Kanoa II catamaran, with food, beverages and local musical entertainment. Educational, scenic and fun! Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com.

Waikoloa Koi Day

08/01/2009 Exhibit-Show

Koi, the majestic Japanese show fish well-known for bright colors and unusual patterns, take center stage at Waikoloa Beach Resort in this first ever event. See an award-winning koi collection, learn about the care and history of koi and tour cascading ponds filled with these beautiful fish. Free. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Queens’ MarketPlace. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com.

South Kona Green Market

08/02/2009 - 08/30/2009 Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

Held every Sunday, this farmers market advocates Hawaii Island sustainability by featuring locally-sourced fruit, produce and other foods, plus handcrafted items. The SKGM features live music and educational lectures; Master Gardeners are available to offer free advice. Held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Amy B.H. Greenwell EthnoBotanical Gardens in Captain Cook. Visit their website at www.skgm.org.

H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience

08/03/2009 - 08/31/2009 Performing Arts Natural History

Experience daily life in the Hawaiian Kingdom in the 1890’s at this general store, built by English immigrant Henry Greenwell. Costumed interpreters show you authentic goods of the day and provide a rare glimpse into Kona’s colorful past. 10 a.m – 2 p.m. Monday – Thursday in Kealakekua. Small fee. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org.

Educational Tours at NELHA

08/03/2009 - 08/31/2009 Natural History Ag Tourism

The Friends of NELHA offers presentations and tours on Hawaii Island’s sustainable future in food and energy Monday – Thursday weekly. NELHA presentations and abalone aquafarm tour/tasting Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; At NELHA in Kona. Fee. (808) 329-8073.

Niaulani Nature Walk / Forest Tour

08/03/2009 - 08/31/2009 Family Natural History

Take a one-hour guided nature walk through an old-growth Hawaiian rain forest on an easy, half-mile loop trail. The walk introduces individuals, families, and groups to the native plants and birds of Volcano. Mondays at 9:30 a.m. at Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa & Old Volcano Roads). Free. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

Volcanoes and Ecology

08/04/2009 Cultural Natural History

Like the Big Island, Iceland is formed by volcanoes which have shaped the geology and culture there. In this “armchair tour” program you can learn about the volcanoes and glaciers in Iceland and how they have had different ecological and cultural impacts than on this island. 7 p.m. Free at Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (808) 985-6014 or visit www.nps.gov/havo

Hawaiiana Live

08/05/2009 - 08/26/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

A unique 45-minute cultural tourism program onstage. Experience Hawaiian history, traditions and culture through storytelling, film, music, oli and hula. Topics change weekly as the program revolves around the Hawaiian lunar calendar. Newly restored pipe organ featured. Palace Theater in Hilo. Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5/children free. Call (808) 934-7010 or visit www.hilopalace.com

Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking

08/06/2009 - 08/27/2009 Cultural Natural History Culinary

Take part in this historical re-creation – making and then baking traditional sweet bread in a wood-fired oven called a forno, the type used by Portuguese immigrants who came to Hawaii in the 1800’s. A tasty and hands on experience! At the H.N. Greenwell Store museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org

57th Annual Hilo Orchid Society Show & Sale

08/07/2009 - 08/09/2009 Exhibit-Show Ag Tourism

Thousands of orchids are on display and for sale in this colorful three-day extravaganza, the State’s largest orchid show. Experts offer demonstrations, growing tips and more. Admission is by donation at the door. At the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium in Hilo. 9 – 9 Friday, 9 – 5 Saturday and 10 – 2 Sunday. Call (808) 982-7753 or hiloorchidsociety@prodigy.net

Bonsai Day

08/08/2009 Cultural Exhibit-Show

Bonsai, the traditional Japanese botanical practice of dwarfing or miniaturizing otherwise large plants and trees, has been practiced for centuries. Learn about this fascinating art form in demonstrations and workshops at Hawaii’s premier bonsai resource center. 2nd Saturday of each month at Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center in Kurtistown. Call (808) 982-9882 or visit www.fukubonsai.com

Pedal Power

08/08/2009 - 08/09/2009 Family Sports

Help raise money for multiple sclerosis research on “Bike MS: Go BIG or Go Home” Big Island cycling adventures. Ride 65 miles Saturday or 50 miles Sunday or do both! Pedal on pavement enjoying beautiful volcanic landscapes, ocean views, paniolo ranches, and historic towns. Sponsor Hilton Waikoloa Village provides group discounts. Register at www.mshawaii.org or call (808) 532-0808.

Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour

08/08/2009 Cultural Natural History Ag Tourism

Amy Greenwell Garden

Amy Greenwell Garden. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

This tour gives you an understanding of the role plants played and still play in the Hawaiian culture. More than 200 species of plants that grew in the traditional farms and native forests of Kona, including endemic, indigenous and Polynesian introduced plants. Free; 10 – 11:30 a.m. On Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell

Hawaii’s World Heritage Festival

08/15/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Exhibit-Show Culinary

A free celebration of Hawaii’s tapestry of people. Dancing, music, entertainment, demonstrations, fashion, arts, crafts and tasty foods from around the world showcase the cultures of people who have made Hawaii their home. Mooheau Park and Bandstand on the bayfront in downtown Hilo. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free! Information: (808) 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com.

National Parks for Free

08/15/2009 - 08/16/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

Summer is family vacation time, and two Hawaii Island National Parks – Hawaii Volcanoes and Puuhonua o Honaunau – are waiving entry fees on three weekends, one each month in June, July and August. This is the final chance for visitors and residents to take advantage of these special weekends and to see two of the best of America’s 391 dynamic national parks

Establishment Day Hawaiian Festival

08/15/2009 - 08/16/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

The annual cultural festival held at the Pu‘ukohol? Heiau National Historical Site, this event features a royal court procession and hula early Saturday morning and arts, crafts and cultural exhibits throughout the weekend. PNHP is located about a mile south of Kawaihae on the Kohala Coast. Call (808) 882-7218 or visit www.nps.gov.puhe.

Niaulani Forest Work Day

08/16/2009 Natural History

Enjoy the open air while volunteering to help restore the beauty and diversity of the native, old-growth rainforest at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. An opportunity to help the forest and connect with nature plus learn about the rich mixture of flora and fauna on this site. 9 a.m. – noon. Free. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

Dark Sacred Nights

08/18/2009 Natural History

Until recent times and the advent of electricity, night skies were dark. But now artificial lighting is disrupting foraging, mating and migratory patterns of many animal species. Learn how we can restore dark nights and protect our natural heritage in this informative program. 7 p.m. Free at Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (808) 985-6014 or visit www.nps.gov/havo

Kailua Village Stroll

08/23/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary

Spend a day strolling Alii Drive (which will be closed to traffic) in the charming town of Kailua Village, the heart of Kona and home to historical sites like Mokuaikaua Church and Hulihee Palace, beautiful seaside views, lots of friendly vendors and merchants, and restaurants offering a wide variety of food choices. From 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Hulihee Palace Concert

08/23/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

Photo courtesy Daughters of Hawaii and Hulihee Palace.

This historic Kona landmark presents a free concert featuring the Hulihee Palace Band and the Merrie Monarchs chorale, remembering King Kamehameha I who established the Hawaiian Kingdom. Post-concert, stroll Kailua village enjoying cafes, restaurants, local musicians and artists. Starts 4 p.m. on the lawn overlooking Kailua Bay. (808) 329-1877 or www.huliheepalace.org.

Hawaii Island Festival

08/29/2009 - 09/27/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Exhibit-Show Culinary

A month long celebration of Hawaiian culture and tradition at various venues around Hawaii Island. From music and dance to unique events including the investiture of the Royal Court to the Miss Aloha Nui Pagaent, come explore what makes Hawaii and Hawaii Island in particular such a special place. For more information, visit www.hawaiiislandfestival.org.

13th Annual “Run For Hope”

09/04/2009 - 09/05/2009 Sports Culinary

This fun-filled, two day event at the luxe Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Kona benefits cancer research in Hawaii. Taste of Hawaii Island on Friday night features some of the island’s best chefs and restaurants; Saturday features 10K Run/5K Run/Walk golf scramble and tennis tourney. Call (808) 325-8052 or email natie.whitlock@fourseasons.com.

Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Races

09/05/2009 - 09/06/2009 Sports

Held on the beautiful Kona Coast, this is the largest long-distance canoe race in the world, attracting dozens of canoe halau (clubs) and hundreds of paddlers from Hawai‘i and beyond. The event features single hull, double hull and individual races along with a torchlight parade, dance and luau awards ceremony. Call (808) 334-9481 or visit www.kaiopua.org

35th Annual Parker Ranch Round-up Club Rodeo

09/05/2009 - 09/09/2009 Family Sports

00086.parker ranch

Steer roping at Parker Ranch, Kamuela, Hawaii's Big Island. Kirk Aeder

This exciting two-day event is held annually as a fundraiser to provide scholarships for school-age children of Parker Ranch employees. Family-style fun includes team roping, bull riding, barrel racing and more. Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea at noon Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday. Call (808) 885-5669 or visit www.parkerranch.com.

Weekends of Hawaiian Culture

09/11/2009 - 09/19/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary Holiday

Waikoloa Beach Resort’s “Hawaiian Cultural Weekends,” part of the Hawaii Island Festival, include Hawaiian arts and crafts, hula performances, entertainment, food, falsetto and poke contests, hoolaule‘a and Ms. Aloha Nui Pageant and Royal Court appearance. Queens’ MarketPlace and Kings’ Shops. (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com

“Flipp” Out!

09/12/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

An cool evening of stories and jazz as performed by two local Filipino women who grew up on plantations in Hawaii. They tell about their plantation roots and transition to modern urban life where they became musicians. Sure to delight and entertain. Akiko’s Buddhist Bed and Breakfast at 15-mile marker, Hwy. 19 on Hamakua Coast. 7 p.m. (808) 963-6422 or e-mail msakiko@hawaii.rr.com.

Forest Education Fair

09/12/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

Learn about Volcano area forests and Hawaiian cultural connections in this one-day open house. Features a native plant sale, hula and music performances and educational displays. Cultural practitioners and educators present a variety of hands-on activities: lei and kapa making, printing with plants and forest songs. Guides lead the informative “Niaulani Nature Walk,” given every hour on the hour. A great event for children families! Free. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaii County Fair

09/17/2009 - 09/20/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism

This popular annual event is a great opportunity for visitors to mingle with residents and experience lots of local color, with a wide variety of island ethnic foods, live musical and vocal entertainment, games, farm products, special exhibits, informational booths and much more. Hilo Civic Auditorium fairgrounds, 5:30 p.m. – midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday & Sunday

Paniolo Artisans Showcase

09/18/2009 - 09/19/2009 Cultural Exhibit-Show

Waimea is the center for Hawaii’s paniolos or cowboys, who will gather there to demonstrate, exhibit and share their skills and culture at this debut event, which will focus on the master craft of saddle making but will also feature films, entertainment and other activities. Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. Call (808) 936-6220 or visit www.paniolopreservation.org

Mealani A Taste of the Hawaiian Range and Agricultural Festival

09/18/2009 Culinary Ag Tourism Conference-Workshop

One of Hawaii’s premier food festivals, the event provides a venue for education to the public on local agricultural products. More than 30 island celebrity, resort and restaurant chefs prepare grass-fed beef, pork and lamb dishes with island-grown vegetables and fruits. 6 – 8 p.m. Fee. Cooking Demonstration 4 p.m. Fee. Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort. (808) 981-5199, 887-6183, 322-4892 or visit www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/taste.

International Day of Peace Parade and Festival

09/20/2009 Family Performing Arts

The tranquil and friendly Hamakua Coast town of Honokaa joins the world community in observing the United Nations International Peace Day with a parade featuring bands, floats, clubs, school groups, performance artists and dancers. Also food vendors, information booths entertainment and more. Noon. Call (808) 775-7232 or visit www.peacedayparade.org.

Namaste’s Birthday Party

09/26/2009 Family Natural History Exhibit-Show

regal white Bengal tiger

Namaste, a regal white Bengal tiger at Panaewa Rainforest Zoo. Courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

Everyone is invited to help celebrate the 11th birthday party for Namaste, the rare white Bengal tiger at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens in Hilo. Features a concert by the Hawaii County Band and other entertainment, games for the kids, crafts and foods. Plus party favors for all the animals! A great Saturday at this gem of a zoo. 9 a.m – 4 p.m. Free! Visit www.hilozoo.com

He Halia Aloha No Ka Queen Liliuokalani Festival

09/27/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

This festival celebrates the birthday of Hawaii’s beloved Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii. It is held in the beautiful surroundings of the Queen’s historical namesake, Japanese-style gardens in central Hilo. Hula performances by worldwide hula halau (schools). 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Call (808) 961-8706 for more information.

Navigation Festival

10/06/2009 - 10/11/2009 Family Natural History Exhibit-Show Conference-Workshop

This weeklong program celebrates the historic feats of Pacific navigators and ongoing efforts to revive and expand skills and interest in long distance canoe voyaging. Free activities include talks, workshops, demonstrations and the chance to learn about wayfinding, navigation and the legacy of the Hokulea. At the Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. Call (808) 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org.

Ford Ironman Triathlon World Championship

10/10/2009 Sports

Ironman Start

Home of many sporting events, the Ironman starts here. Photo by Bob Fewell, Big Island Visitor Bureau.

The top 1,800 triathletes from around the world (50 countries and all 50 States) converge on Kona for this Super-Bowl of triathlon events, featuring a 2.4-mile ocean swim, a 112-mile bike course and a 26.2-mile run. This is the big one – a world-class sports event! Call (808) 329-0063 or visit www.ironmanlive.com.

Fall Arts Festival

10/17/2009 Family

This all-day festival is your chance to get creative in a variety of arts media to create your own gifts and gift wrapping for the holidays. Also featuring door prizes, raffles for gifts, ukulele entertainment, food, and arts recycling education. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the historic Donkey Mill Art Center above Kona in Holualoa. (808) 322-3362 or visit www.donkeymillartcenter.org.

"OBAKE” – Ghost Stories

10/24/2009 Cultural Holiday

Celebrate Halloween local-style with an evening of music, food and spooky obake or ghost stories from local Big Island residents. At Akiko’s Bed & Breakfast in Wailea Village at the 15-mile marker on Hwy. 19 on the H?m?kua Coast from 7 – 8:30 p.m. $10, $8 children under 12 years. For more information call (808) 963-6422.

Makahiki ma ka Maukele: A Cultural Festival in the Rain Forest

10/24/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary Conference-Workshop

A day of Hawaiian culture featuring lei making, lei demonstrations and contests; music, with workshops and demonstrations; and Hawaiian makahiki games. Evening concert with silent auction, food, music and dancers. Volcano Village and KMC at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Day – free; concert – fee. (808) 968-6696 or mililani2@gmail.com.

Moku o Keawe International Hula Festival

11/05/2009 - 11/08/2009 Performing Arts Cultural Conference-Workshop

A relative newcomer on the hula scene, this festival features hula halau (troupes) from Hawaii, Japan and elsewhere competing in kupuna (senior), kahiko (ancient) and auana (modern) hula divisions. Master instructors teach workshops and cultural classes throughout the event. Waikoloa Beach Resort. Call (808) 345-9364 or visit www.mokuokeawe.org

Black & White Night

11/06/2009 Performing Arts Culinary

Downtown Hilo’s biggest annual strolling party with numerous live music venues, fashion shows, a treasure hunt through town, free food, author & artist receptions. Everyone dresses in black and white, from shorts and T-shirts to gowns and suits to enter the “Best Dressed Black & White Contest” for cash prizes. 5 – 10 p.m. Free! Call (808) 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com.

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

11/06/2009 - 11/15/2009 Family Cultural Exhibit-Show Culinary Ag Tourism Conference-Workshop

Since its inception in 1970, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival’s mission has been to preserve, perpetuate and promote Kona’s 180-year coffee heritage. It is Hawaii’s oldest food festival and the only coffee festival in the United States. This year’s celebration will have nearly 50 events including tastings, art exhibits, cupping competition, farm tours, contests, parades, sporting events, and special events. Call (808) 326-7820 or visit www.konacoffeefest.com.

New Waves at NELHA Luncheon and Tour

11/06/2009 Culinary Ag Tourism

NELHA

NELHA - Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

A learning and tasting day at NELHA, the innovative aquaculture and natural energy facility on the Kona Coast. Guests will tour aquaculture operations and enjoy a luncheon prepared by local chefs featuring fresh NELHA seafood products plus other culinary treats. 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $100 fee for tour and luncheon. Call (808) 329-8073 or visit www.keaholepoint.org.

E Malama Aina Foundation Festival

11/07/2009 Family Cultural Natural History

An afternoon and evening of cultural and natural history events for the family focusing on sustainability and the perpetuation of traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices. View Hawaii Island’s innovations and sustainability best practices and touch, taste and explore the “greening” of Hawaii’s Big Island! 3 – 8 p.m. at Mooheau Park on the bayfront in Hilo. Free admission.

Healing Garden Festival

11/07/2009 - 11/10/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Natural History Culinary Ag Tourism Conference-Workshop

This unique festival showcases the health-giving properties of native Hawaiian plants and foods. Presentations and workshops, healing arts, cooking demonstrations, lei-making contests, tours, hula and musical entertainment. At Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook and Kailua-Kona. Call (808) 638-0888 or visit http://hawaiihealthguide.com for complete schedule.

Annual Drum and Percussion Festival

11/07/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

An exciting evening of world percussion by local artists featuring diverse traditional & contemporary percussion performances from Hawaii, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, Africa and more! 6 – 9 p.m. Hilo Palace Theater. Ticket fee. Call (808) 333-2730 or visit www.bareandcore.org.

Bay Concert

11/14/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Natural History

Enjoy music and entertainment by top Hawaiian performers at this event that raises awareness about coral reef and coastal waters. Sponsored by The Kohala Center, the concert benefits restoration and preservation of one of Hawaii’s most beautiful coastal marine venues – Kahaluu Bay in Kona. 5 – 8 p.m.; Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Hawaii Lawn, (808) 895-1010 or visit www.kohalacenter.org.

Talking Circle: The Big Island Indigenous Film Festival

11/20/2009 - 11/22/2009 Performing Arts Cultural

A three-day festival of films providing an entertaining window into indigenous cultures through the works of independent native Hawaiian, native American and First Nation filmmakers. Palace Theatre in Hilo. For additional information, screening times and tickets call (808) 934-7010or visit www.talkingcirclefilmfestival.com.

10th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit

11/21/2009 - 01/03/2010 Exhibit-Show Holiday

Working in a wide variety of media and materials, Gallery artists present their unique and highly creative collection of one-of-a-kind wreaths, from the whimsical to the traditional! 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

Christmas in the Country

11/21/2009 - 11/29/2009 Family Cultural Exhibit-Show

Special holiday celebrations include demonstrations and print and book signings by artists and authors, plus a selection of quality handcrafted decorations and gifts offered only during the holiday season. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

He Huakai e pana a i ke ea

12/02/2009 - 12/06/2009 Performing Arts Cultural Conference-Workshop

Slack key guitar, ukulele and hula immersion workshops and concert presented by Hawaii’s master musicians and kumu hula under the direction of Cyril Pahinui. Features regional musical compositions and related moolelo from various East Hawaii locations from Volcano to Keaukaha. Hilo concert Sunday evening 12/6. (808) 896-1911; (808) 722-8575 or visit www.cyrilpahinui.com.

Passport to International Cultures

12/12/2009 Culinary Ag Tourism Conference-Workshop

A cultural journey of food and fun, this Waikoloa Beach Resort signature event offers guests a taste of the different cultures of the world as resort chefs showcase their cooking styles and offer guests samplings of the finest food from the resort’s best restaurants. Also features live cultural entertainment. Queen’s MarketPlace. Call (808) 886-8811 or visit www.waikolobeachresort.com.

Volcano Art Center Annual Holiday Concert

12/16/2009 Holiday

This show is Volcano Art Center’s yearly holiday gift of family entertainment to the community, featuring local talent and personality emcee, good cheer, a festive atmosphere, and an audience carol sing-along. 7 p.m. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free. (Donations welcome). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

Wailea Village Historic Preservation – Mochi Pounding

12/27/2009 Cultural Culinary Holiday

Celebrate the New Year with demonstrations of and participation in traditional Japanese mochi pounding and making the rice cakes. Hearty local lunch included for $5. Location: Akiko’s Buddhist Bed and Breakfast at 15-mile marker, Hwy. 19 on Hamakua Coast. 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call (808) 963-6422 or e-mail msakiko@hawaii.rr.com.