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What's sizzlin' on the Big Island
Big Island Event Calendar
Artisan Farms Tour
11/01/2009 - 11/30/2009 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
Visit three artisan farms in beautiful Ahualoa, upslope on the Northeast coast of Hawai‘i 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
11/01/2009 - 11/30/2009 CulturalNatural 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
South Kona Green Market
11/01/2009 - 11/29/2009 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
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.
Hawaiiana Live
11/04/2009 - 11/25/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
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
Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking
11/05/2009 - 11/26/2009 CulturalNatural HistoryCulinaryAg Tourism
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
Kona Stories
11/05/2009 - 11/26/2009 FamilyCulturalNatural History
Amy Greenwell Museum. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
Trained storytellers and special guests bring Kona’s interesting history to life in these lively weekly sessions. Includes narratives of the coffee belt, cowboy and ranch life, good gossip, ghost stories as well as retellings from diaries and letters of residents of old Kona. At the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – noon. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org
Hulihee Palace Tours
11/11/2009 - 12/31/2009 Cultural
Photo courtesy Daughters of Hawaii and Hulihee Palace.
Damaged by an earthquake three years ago, this beautiful, historic Kona landmark has been extensively renovated and is again offering self-guided tours. See furniture, historic relics and other items belonging to Hawaiian royalty. On Alii Drive in the center of Kailua Village; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday – Saturday. Fee. (808) 329-1877 or visit www.daughtersofhawaii.org.
Talking Circle: The Big Island Indigenous Film Festival
11/20/2009 - 11/22/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
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.
The 2009 Bay Concert
11/21/2009 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalNatural History
Enjoy entertainment by top Hawaiian performers Na Leo Pilimehana and Hookena at this event to benefit restoration and preservation of one of Hawaii’s most beautiful coastal marine venues – Kahaluu Bay in Kona. Also featuring taiko drummers. 5 – 8 p.m. Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Convention Center in Kona. Fee. (808) 887-6411 or visit www.kohalacenter.org/bayconcert09.
Christmas in the Country
11/21/2009 - 11/29/2009 FamilyCulturalExhibit-Show
Christmas in the Country, Courtesy Volcano Art Center
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.
Aloha Saturdays
11/21/2009 Performing ArtsCulturalCulinary
These monthly programs feature musical performances by Hawaii Island musicians and hula halau, along with presentations by community groups. Also featured are authentic arts and crafts vendors and food booths. This month: a tribute to Hawaii’s Princess Kaiulani. Noon – 4 p.m. Klakaua Park in Hilo. Free. (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org.
A Tribute to King David Kalakaua
11/21/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
This special hula event pays tribute to Hawaiian monarch David Kalakaua – known as the Merrie Monarch – who is credited with reviving the dance of hula in the 1800’s. Various Kona area hula halau (schools) will perform in his honor. At the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona. Free. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.. Free. For more information call (866) 326-6803.
Healing Plants of Volcano
11/21/2009 CulturalNatural History
Learn simple healing uses for some of Hawaii’s most common native plants – called laau – with practitioners Jeanelle and Kehau Keopuhiwa. The Keopuhiwas teach traditional plant identification and protocols with the Niaulani forest as the classroom. 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Fee. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Book and Print Signing
11/21/2009 - 11/28/2009 CulturalExhibit-Show
An opportunity to meet and talk with Dietrich Varez, Volcano Art Center signature artist whose prints provide a look at the life and culture of Hawaiians and Hawaii; his latest prints celebrate the life and canonization of Father Damien. Volcano Art Center Gallery, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Fireside Talk Story at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
11/27/2009 FamilyCulturalNatural History
The lobby of the Volcano House hotel is the gathering place for these informal monthly “talk story” sessions about the history, culture and people of Hawaii. This session: Stories of the Hawaiian Islands with Jessie Ke and Maile Yamanaka. 7 – 8 p.m. Free. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience
12/01/2009 - 12/31/2009 FamilyCulturalNatural History
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.
Artisan Farms Tour
12/01/2009 - 12/31/2009 CulturalNatural HistoryCulinaryAg Tourism
Visit three artisan farms in beautiful Ahualoa, upslope on the Northeast coast of Hawai‘i 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
12/01/2009 - 12/31/2009 CulturalNatural 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
He Huakai e pana a i ke ea
12/02/2009 - 12/06/2009 Performing ArtsCulturalConference-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.
Hawaiiana Live
12/02/2009 - 12/30/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
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
Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking
12/03/2009 - 12/31/2009 CulturalCulinary
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
Kona Stories
12/03/2009 - 12/31/2009 FamilyCultural
Amy Greenwell Museum. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
Trained storytellers and special guests bring Kona’s interesting history to life in these lively weekly sessions. Includes narratives of the coffee belt, cowboy and ranch life, good gossip, ghost stories as well as retellings from diaries and letters of residents of old Kona. At the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – noon. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org
Christmas in the Garden
12/06/2009 CulturalNatural History
Amy Greenwell Garden. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
Talented Hawaii Island artisans will showcase a varied selection of their garden-related wares and holiday gifts in the unique setting of the Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. An enjoyable holiday outing in this botanical and cultural setting. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free; Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell
South Kona Green Market
12/06/2009 - 12/27/2009 CulturalCulinaryAg 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.
John Keawe’s Hawaii Island Home
12/08/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
Join this renowned master of slack key guitar as he warms the room with his beautiful melodies and sweet songs about the Big Island and Hawaii. His wife Hope will perform moving interpretations of his songs with her graceful hula. 7 p.m. Free. Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (808) 985-6011 or visit www.nps.gov/havo
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
12/12/2009 CulturalNatural History
Amy Greenwell Garden. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
This tour gives 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. Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell
Bonsai Day
12/12/2009 CulturalAg Tourism
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 Hawai‘i’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
Hulihee Palace Concert
12/13/2009 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalHoliday
Photo courtesy Daughters of Hawaii and Hulihee Palace.
This historic Kona landmark presents a free concert featuring the Hulihee Palace Band performing special seasonal music with hula performed by Halau Na Pua Ui O Hawaii. Starts at 4 p.m. on the lawn overlooking Kailua Bay. After the concert, stroll through Kailua Village enjoying cafes, restaurants, local musicians and artists. Call (808) 329-1877 or visit www.huliheepalace.org
“Mau Voyager” Documentary Film
12/13/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
Polynesian seafaring and the role of famed navigator “Papa” Mau Piailug – the father of modern-day Hawaiian canoe voyaging – in keeping the tradition alive is the subject of this excellent three-hour cultural, historical and informational documentary film. 2 p.m. Free. Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. (808) 885-6868
Aloha Saturdays
12/19/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
These monthly programs feature musical performances by Hawaii Island musicians and hula halau, along with presentations by community groups. Also featured are authentic arts and crafts vendors and food booths. This month: Ozzie Kotani and Brittni Paiva. Noon – 4 p.m. Kalakaua Park in Hilo. Free. (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org.
Healing Garden Festival
12/20/2009 - 11/10/2009 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalNatural HistoryCulinaryAg TourismConference-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. 9:30 – 4:30 at Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook and Kailua-Kona. (808) 638-0888 or visit http://hawaiihealthguide.com for complete schedule.
Fireside Talk Story at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The lobby of the Volcano House hotel is the gathering place for these informal monthly “talk story” series sessions about the history, culture and people of Hawaii. This month: “The First Christmas in Hawaii” with Leilehua Yuen. 7 – 8 p.m. Free. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org. p
Wailea Village Historic Preservation – Mochi Pounding
12/27/2009 CulturalCulinaryHoliday
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.
Volcano Awareness Month
01/01/2010 - 01/31/2010 CulturalNatural History
Throughout the month, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and other partner organizations will offer guided hikes, informative talks, living history programs, and educational workshops, to increase public awareness of Hawaiian volcanoes. See complete calendar at http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov or call (808) 967-8844.
Artisan Farms Tour
01/01/2010 - 01/31/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg 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.
South Kona Green Market
01/03/2010 - 01/31/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
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. as
Kona Coast History Cruise
01/05/2010 - 01/30/2010 CulturalNatural History
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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Hawaiiana Live
01/06/2010 - 01/27/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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
01/07/2010 - 01/28/2010 CulturalCulinary
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
Kona Stories
01/07/2010 - 01/28/2010 Cultural
Trained storytellers and special guests bring Kona’s interesting history to life in these lively weekly sessions. Includes narratives of the coffee belt, cowboy and ranch life, good gossip, ghost stories as well as retellings from diaries and letters of residents of old Kona. At the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – noon. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org
Aloha Saturday
01/09/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
These monthly programs feature musical performances by Hawaii Island musicians and hula halau, along with presentations by community groups. Also featured are authentic arts and crafts vendors and food booths. Noon – 4 p.m. Kalakaua Park in Hilo. Free. (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org.
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
01/09/2010 CulturalNatural History
This tour gives 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. Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell
Hulihee Palace Concert
01/17/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
Photo courtesy Daughters of Hawaii and Hulihee Palace.
A monthly concert at this historic Kona landmark honoring a a Hawaiian monarch. Vocal music by the Merrie Monarchs and hula by Halau Na Pua Ui o Hawaii. Free. 4 p.m. on the lawn overlooking Kailua Bay. (808) 329-1877; www.huliheepalace.org.
Kailua Village Stroll
01/17/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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!
4th Annual Ipu Cultural Festival
01/21/2010 - 01/24/2010 CulturalConference-Workshop
This festival celebrates Hawaiian ipu or gourd drum culture and features ipu history and heritage, demonstrations, classes and an ipu farm tour. Also, music, entertainment and information from kumu and cultural practitioners. Jan. 21- 22 at Ipu Lani Farm in Honaunau; Jan. 23 -23 at Hale Halawai in Kailua Village. Open to public. (808) 937-4308 or visit www.hawaiigourdsociety.com
Na Mea Hawaii Hula Kahiko
01/23/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
See traditional hula and chant performed outdoors on the hula platform overlooking Kilauea Crater, featuring hula halau Halau Ka Noeau, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Hawaiian crafts demonstrations at Volcano Art Center Gallery 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entry fees apply). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Artisan Farms Tour
02/01/2010 - 02/28/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg 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
02/02/2010 - 02/27/2010 CulturalNatural History
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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Hawaiiana Live
02/03/2010 - 02/24/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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
02/04/2010 - 02/25/2010 CulturalCulinary
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
Kona Stories
02/04/2010 - 02/25/2010 Cultural
Trained storytellers and special guests bring Kona’s interesting history to life in these lively weekly sessions. Includes narratives of the coffee belt, cowboy and ranch life, good gossip, ghost stories as well as retellings from diaries and letters of residents of old Kona. At the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – noon. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org
Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
02/06/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
This popular festival held in the community of Waimea celebrates Japanese traditions and culture and includes cherry blossom viewing, music, demonstrations, exhibits, crafts, entertainment, ethnic foods, a farmers’ market and visiting performers and artisans from Japan. For additional information contact (808) 961-8706.
Bob Fest Concert and Agricultural Fair
02/07/2010 SportsCulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
Rasta people and everyone who likes good music are invited to this event, celebrating the legacy of reggae icon Bob Marley. Big Island and off-island bands, locally-grown foods, seeds and trees to plant, children’s activities and more. Noon to 6 p.m. in Hilo at Mooheau Park Bandstand. Free. Call (808) 216-7372.
South Kona Green Market
02/07/2010 - 02/28/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
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.
Hawaii Island Chinese Film Festival
02/12/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalHoliday
This special film screening officially opens the Hilo Chinese New Year observance and will feature films from and about China. Preceded by a special lion dance and firecracker blessing! All showings are free at the historic Palace Theater in downtown Hilo. 7 p.m. For more information call (808) 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com.
8th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival
02/13/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalCulinary
Chinese lion dancers snake to Hilo’s Kal?kaua Park which is transformed into a mini-Chinatown to celebrate the Year of the Ox. Performances, displays, cooking and cultural demonstrations show the Chinese influence in Hawai‘i. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free! Information: (808) 933-9772 or www.poshfestivals.com
Panaewa Stampede Rodeo
02/13/2010 - 02/14/2010 SportsCultural
Check out rodeo Hawaiian-style at this weekend event featuring an amateur competition between cowboys, cowgirls, keiki and k?puna. Enjoy paniolo (cowboy) demonstrations, Hawaiian musical entertainment, food and craft booths. Panaewa Equestrian Center in Hilo, noon – 5 p.m. both days. Fee. Call (808) 937-1005 or e-mail: ncabral@daylum.com.
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
02/13/2010 CulturalNatural History
This tour gives 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. Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell
Aloha Saturday
02/13/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
These monthly programs feature musical performances by Hawaii Island musicians and hula halau, along with presentations by community groups. Also featured are authentic arts and crafts vendors and food booths. Noon – 4 p.m. Kalakaua Park in Hilo. Free. (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org
International Nights
02/19/2010 - 11/20/2009 Performing ArtsCultural
These back-to-back evenings feature performances of dance, music and other international and ethnic entertainment by various student ethnic groups at the University of Hawaii – Hilo. 7:30 p.m. each night. Small fee. Call (808) 922-0881 or visit http://artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu
Kailua Village Stroll
02/21/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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!
Artisan Farms Tour
03/01/2010 - 03/31/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg 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
03/02/2010 - 03/30/2010 CulturalNatural History
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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Hawaiiana Live
03/03/2010 - 03/31/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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
03/04/2010 - 03/25/2010 CulturalCulinary
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
Kona Stories
03/04/2010 - 03/25/2010 Cultural
Trained storytellers and special guests bring Kona’s interesting history to life in these lively weekly sessions. Includes narratives of the coffee belt, cowboy and ranch life, good gossip, ghost stories as well as retellings from diaries and letters of residents of old Kona. At the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum in Kealakekua, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – noon. Free. (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org
The Great Waikoloa Ukulele Festival
03/06/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalExhibit-Show
A musical festival honoring Hawaiis well-known instrument with an evening of Hawaii’s top ukulele entertainers performing at the Queens’ Marketplace at the Waikoloa Resort. Special exhibits, including how ancient Hawaiian musical instruments were made and a chance to make one yourself. Call (808) 886-8811 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com
South Kona Green Market
03/07/2010 - 03/28/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
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.
Koolau
03/12/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
This innovative performance uses puppets to dramatize the true story of Koolau, a Hawaiian man afflicted with leprosy who in the 1890’s hid with his family from the authorities on Kauai for many months to avoid capture and deportation to the leper colony on Molokai. An emotional story of love and freedom. Free. 8 p.m. Kahilu Theater in Waimea. (808) 885-6868 or www.kahilutheatre.org.
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
03/13/2010 CulturalNatural History
This tour gives 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. Hwy. 19 in Captain Cook. (808) 323-3318 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org/greenwell
Aloha Saturday
03/13/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
These monthly programs feature musical performances by Hawaii Island musicians and hula halau, along with presentations by community groups. Also featured are authentic arts and crafts vendors and food booths. Noon – 4 p.m. Kalakaua Park in Hilo. Free. (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org
Na Mea Hawaii Hula Kahiko
03/21/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
See traditional hula and chant performed outdoors on the hula platform overlooking Kilauea Crater, featuring hula Halau Haa Kea O Kinohi, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Hawaiian crafts demonstrations at Volcano Art Center Gallery 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entry fees apply). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Kailua Village Stroll
03/21/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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!
Merrie Monarch Hula Festival
04/04/2010 - 04/10/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
Hawaii’s most venerable hula celebration and competition with week-long festivities including exhibitions, musical entertainment, arts and crafts fairs and the Miss Aloha Hula Competition and kahiko (ancient) and auana (modern) hula competitions. Except for the hula competition, events are free. Call (808) 935-9168 or visit www.merriemonarchfestival.org.
May Day is Lei Day
05/01/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
May Day means Lei Day at the Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast. Celebrate this time-honored tradition with the resort’s day-long, resort-wide event highlighting Hawaii’s diverse culture. Live, local entertainment, authentic Hawaiian arts and crafts, performances by talented hula halau, lei-making contest and Lei Queen. (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com
Kau Coffee Festival
05/01/2010 - 05/02/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
If coffee gets you going, then go to this festival celebrating the bean in Hawai‘i Island’s beautiful Kau district. Featuring a Miss Kau Coffee pageant, hoolaulea, best coffee competition, recipe contest, music and entertainment, farm tours, coffee demos and more. At the Community Center in Pahala. Most events are free. (808) 929-9550 or visit www.kaucoffeefest.com.
King Kamehameha Day Celebration
Come to the northern tip of the Big Island to honor the legendary Hawaiian king in his North Kohala birthplace. A day long cultural festival with floral parade, ceremony draping the King’s statue in lei, hula, food booths and musical performances mark this special day. 8 a.m – 4 p.m. in Kapaau and Hawi.
Kamehameha Festival
06/11/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
This festival features features a hoolaulea with top Hawaii recording artists such as Cyril Pahinui, hula halau, various cultural presentations, Hawaiian chant competition, dance of the warrior exhibition, food, and art and crafts booth. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo. Free. For information visit www.kamehamehafestival.org.
King Kamehameha Day Parade
06/12/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalHoliday
A beautiful floral parade through the heart of Kailua-Kona honoring the great Hawaiian monarch. Featuring Hawaiian-themed entries, including pa‘u riders representing all the Hawaiian Islands, bands, hula and community groups. Also food booths, crafts and much more. Parade starts at 9 a.m. in Kailua Village.
Puuhonua o Honaunau Annual Cultural Festival
06/26/2010 - 06/27/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalNatural HistoryExhibit-Show
This enjoyable and educational festival is held in Kona at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, perhaps the premier spot in the state to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture. Demonstrations of – and participation in – numerous Hawaiian arts and lifestyle activities, including net fishing, weaving, food preparation, and much more. 9 a.m – 3 p.m. Call (808) 328-2326, ext. 32 or visit www.nps.gov/puho.
Annual Parker Ranch Rodeo
07/04/2010 FamilySportsCultural
A paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) "cuts" a steer from the herd at Parker Ranch. 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.
Big Island Hawaiian Music Festival
07/17/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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 Hawaii Cultural Center. Visit www.ehcc.org for more information.
Establishment Day Hawaiian Festival
08/14/2010 - 08/15/2010 Cultural
The annual cultural festival held at the Puukohola 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.
36th Annual Parker Ranch Round-up Club Rodeo
09/04/2010 - 09/05/2010 SportsCultural
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 to sunset both days. Call (808) 885-5669 or visit www.parkerranch.com.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
11/05/2010 - 11/14/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg TourismConference-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.
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