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Please note that all information and other content about upcoming festivals and events are provided to BIVB by the event organizers. BIVB makes no warranties or representations about the accuracy, reliability, or suitability of such information and other content, all of which are provided “as is”.
What's sizzlin' on the Big Island
Big Island Event Calendar
Hawaii Island Festival
08/28/2010 - 09/26/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinary
A month-long event celebrating Hawaii’s aloha spirit and cultural traditions. Highlights include investiture of Royal Court at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park at 10 a.m. Aug. 28; falsetto singing/storytelling, Miss Aloha Nui and poke contests, and Hawaiian Elegance Brunch at the Waikoloa Beach Resort Sept. 3 – Sept 5; kupuna hula Sept. 17; and paniolo parade and hoolaulea in Waimea Sept. 18; Visit www.hawaiiislandfestival.org
Hawaiiana Live
09/01/2010 - 09/29/2010 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
Hawaiian Culture at Keauhou
09/01/2010 - 09/30/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalExhibit-Show
Visitors are invited to sample a variety of Hawaiian cultural activities that take place throughout the week at this hotel, including a history tour, lei making, chanting and hula, ukulele, Hawaiian language and arts and crafts with Hawaiian elders. Many activities daily 9 a.m – 3 p.m.; other activities on selected days. Free. For complete schedule visit www.keauhoubeachresort.com.
H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience
09/01/2010 - 09/30/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
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
09/02/2010 - 09/30/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking
09/02/2010 - 09/30/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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
09/02/2010 - 09/30/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
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
14th Annual “Run For Hope”
09/03/2010 - 09/04/2010 SportsCulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
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 monica.balanay@fourseasons.com
Weekend of Hawaiian Culture
09/03/2010 - 09/05/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinary
Waikoloa Beach Resort’s “Hawaiian Cultural Weekend,” part of the Hawaii Island Festival, features Hawaiian falsetto singing, falsetto and poke contests, Ms. Aloha Nui Pageant and Royal Court appearance and a Hawaiian Elegance brunch. At Waikoloa Beach Resort hotels and shops. Visit www.hawaiiislandfestival.org for the complete festival schedule or call (808) 886-8822.
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.
Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Races
09/04/2010 - 09/06/2010 SportsCultural
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 Hawaii 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.
East Hawaii Dance Festival & Extravaganza
09/04/2010 - 09/11/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalConference-Workshop
A celebration of dance featuring performances by Hawaii Island’s leading dancers ranging from hip-hop to hula, tango to tribal, traditional to cutting-edge on 9/4 at the Palace Theater in Hilo; classes throughout the week with student performance 9/11 at Hilo’s East Hawaii Cultural Center. Both performances at 7 p.m. (808) 217-9924.
Honuapo Hoolaulea
09/05/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinaryHoliday
photo by Chelle Pahinui
Honuapo Hoolaulea (Sunday, Sept. 5) – A day-long festival at Honuapo Beach Park featuring live music – including a special appearance by celebrated Hawaiian musician Cyril Pahinui – hula, food, storytelling and activities highlighting the park’s history and cultural traditions. Lots of fun and friendly people. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the park in the beautiful Kau District. Information: call (808) 929-9891 or visit www.honuapopark.org.
Kona Style Slack Key Guitar Festival
09/05/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
Hawaii’s trademark method of tuning and playing the guitar – called “slack-key” – is showcased at this free music festival. Fifteen of the best slack-key artists from Hawaii and the Big Island will perform. Authentic Hawaiian music – an event not to miss! Noon – 5 p.m. Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona. (808) 226-2697 or visit www.slackkeyfestival.com
South Kona Green Market
09/05/2010 - 09/26/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalCulinaryAg 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
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
09/11/2010 CulturalNatural HistoryAg Tourism
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
Kupuna Hula Festival
09/17/2010 - 09/16/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
Some of Hawaii Island’s most experienced and talented kupuna or elder hula dancers will perform at this event, which is a part of the Hawaii Island Festival – 30 Days of Aloha. Also features an appearance by the Royal Court. 5 p.m. at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. For more information call (808) 322-1812.
Waimea Paniolo Parade and Hoolaulea
09/18/2010 Cultural
Part of the Hawaii Island Festival, this parade celebrates the Hawaiian paniolo or cowboy with many colorful entries and Hawaiian Island princesses on horseback. Followed by crafts show, games, and arts plus island food and products and entertainment. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free. An always popular event for the whole family. For more information call (808) 936-4376.
Kailua Village Stroll
09/19/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinary
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!
"Fireside Stories"
09/24/2010 FamilyCulturalNatural History
Learn about the history, culture, and people of Hawaii in this series of informal talks near the fireplace in the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 7 p.m. Free. Park entrance fees may apply. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
He Halia Aloha No Ka Queen Liliuokalani Festival
09/26/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
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 h?lau (schools). 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Call (808) 961-8706 for more information.
HANDS
09/27/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
This renowned Malaysian percussion ensemble will get your heart beating with their innovative performances on the Chinese drum. Their sophisticated and intricate drum technique, theatrics, movement and costuming makes for an extraordinary evening of musical and cultural entertainment. Free community event. 7 p.m. at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. (808) 885-6868 or www.kahilutheatre.org.
Hawaiian Culture at Keauhou
10/01/2010 - 10/31/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
Visitors are invited to sample a variety of Hawaiian cultural activities that take place throughout the week at this hotel, including a history tour, lei making, chanting and hula, ukulele, Hawaiian language and arts and crafts with Hawaiian elders. Many activities daily 9 a.m – 3 p.m.; other activities on selected days. Free. For complete schedule visit www.keauhoubeachresort.com.
H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience
10/01/2010 - 10/31/2010 FamilyCultural
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
10/02/2010 - 10/30/2010 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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
South Kona Green Market
10/03/2010 - 10/31/2010 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
Hawaiiana Live
10/06/2010 - 10/27/2010 FamilyPerforming 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
Kona Stories
10/07/2010 - 10/28/2010 FamilyCultural
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
Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking
10/07/2010 - 10/28/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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 Hawai?i 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
Hilo Wayfinding Festival
10/08/2010 - 10/10/2010 CulturalConference-Workshop
Exhibits at the Imiloa Astronomy Center show the importance of the stars to ancient Hawaiians. Courtesy Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii
This 3rd annual event celebrates the historic sailing feats of Pacific peoples using celestial navigation along with current efforts to revive and expand skills and interest in long distance canoe voyaging. Free activities include panel presentations and workshops led by Hawai’s master canoe navigators. Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. Call (808) 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org.
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
10/09/2010 CulturalNatural HistoryAg Tourism
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
An Evening of Hawaiian Music
10/12/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
An Island-style evening of hula with music by the talented Kuahiwi trio, who will share songs from their new CD, Hawaiian Music plus other favorites. The Kuahiwis smoothly blend the classic songs of their upbringing with modern rhythms and melodies of today. 7 p.m. Free. Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (808) 985-6011 or www.nps.gov/havo
Cemetery Tour at Kona’s Christ Church
10/15/2010 - 10/29/2010 CulturalNatural History
Join costumed interpreters from the Kona Historical Society on this tour through the cemeteries of two churches in mauka Kona, as they tell stories of the famous residents and ordinary citizens buried there. 6 p.m. at Christ Church and Central Union Church in Kealakekua. Fee. Also Oct. 22 and 29. For more information call (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org.
Kona History Cruise
10/17/2010 CulturalNatural History
Take this ocean adventure aboard a sailing catamaran to learn about some of the many interesting Hawaiian historical sites found on the Kona Coast. Sponsored by the Kona Historical Society with narration by Kona’s John Mitchell. Along the way look for whales and dolphins and enjoy pupus and drinks. 2 – 5 p.m. Fee. Call (808) 322-2788 or visit www.konahistorical.org
Kailua Village Stroll
10/17/2010 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!
Hamakua Alive
10/23/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
This popular food event returns to showcase the agricultural bounty of the verdant Hamakua Coast of the island of Hawaii. Includes producers of organic honey, coffee, vanilla, taro, beef, mushrooms and more as well as participation by top local chefs. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the ballfield at Paauilo School. Free. Contact: Jim Reddekopp (808) 776-1771 or e-mail vanillakitchen@aol.com
Hula Camp
10/26/2010 - 10/29/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalConference-Workshop
A hula retreat for hula practitioners, hula lovers, and those interested in hula, its stories and traditions. All are welcome no matter what level of experience. Includes workshops, field trip to sites in Kona, and evening entertainment. The retreat will conclude with a field trip to Kilauea Volcanoes National Park. Fee. For more information call Keala Ching at Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort (808) 324-2553.
"OBAKE” – Ghost Stories
10/29/2010 FamilyCulturalHoliday
Celebrate Halloween local-style with an evening of food and spooky obake or ghost stories from Island residents. At Akiko’s Bed & Breakfast in Wailea Village at the 15-mile marker on Hwy. 19 on the Hamakua Coast from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Small fee. For more information call (808) 963-6422.
"Fireside Stories"
Learn about the history, culture, and people of Hawaii in this series of informal talks near the fireplace in the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 7 p.m. Free. Park entrance fees may apply. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
West Hawaii Ohana Expo
10/30/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
Learn about the many interesting products from Hawaii Island and the people and businesses who make them at this fun family event. Activities include a Halloween costume contest plus entertainment, giveaways, and door prizes. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort on the Kohala Coast. For more information: bamz@dreamweaverproduction.ws or call (808) 333-4572.
Artisan Farms Tour
11/01/2010 - 11/30/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg Tourism
Visit any of three artisan farms in beautiful Ahualoa, upslope on the Northeast coast of Hawaii Island. Meet the owners and sample the products at these farms – a coffee plantation, a tea garden and a honey company. Lots of unique and local flavor! By appointment only. Fee. For information and contact phone numbers for each farm, visit www.hawaiianartisanfarms.com
Hawaiian Culture at Keauhou
11/01/2010 - 11/30/2010 Performing ArtsCulturalCulinary
Visitors are invited to sample a variety of Hawaiian cultural activities that take place throughout the week at this hotel, including a history tour, lei making, chanting and hula, ukulele, Hawaiian language and arts and crafts with Hawaiian elders. Many activities daily 9 a.m – 3 p.m.; other activities on selected days. Free. For complete schedule visit www.keauhoubeachresort.com.
H.N. Greenwell Store Living History Experience
11/01/2010 - 11/30/2010 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.
Kona Coast History Cruise
11/02/2010 - 11/30/2010 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. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call (808) 326-7122 or visit www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Hawaiiana Live
11/03/2010 - 11/24/2010 FamilyPerforming 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
Kona Stories
11/04/2010 - 11/25/2010 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
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
Portuguese Stone Oven Bread Baking
11/04/2010 - 11/25/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinary
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 Coffee Cultural Festival
11/05/2010 - 11/14/2010 CulturalCulinaryAg TourismConference-Workshop
Photo courtesy Kau Coffee Festival
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.
Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden Tour
11/13/2010 CulturalNatural HistoryAg Tourism
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
Christmas in the Country
11/20/2010 - 11/28/2010 FamilyCulturalExhibit-ShowHoliday
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.
A Tribute to King David Kalakaua
11/20/2010 Performing ArtsCultural
This special hula event honors Hawaiian monarch David Kalakaua – known as the Merrie Monarch – credited with reviving the dance of hula in the 1800’s. Hula halau (schools) from Hawaii and elsewhere will perform ancient and modern hula. Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona. Free. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Free. For more information call (808) 324-2553.
Hulihee Palace Concert
11/21/2010 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 as well as hula by Halau Na Pua Ui o Hawaii. This concert remembers Hawaii’s beloved musical king, King Kalakaua. Free. 4 p.m. on the lawn overlooking Kailua Bay. (808) 329-1877; or visit www.huliheepalace.org.
"Fireside Stories"
Learn about the history, culture, and people of Hawaii in this series of informal talks near the fireplace in the Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 7 p.m. Free. Park entrance fees may apply. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Mochi Pounding at Historic Wailea Village
12/27/2010 FamilyCulturalCulinaryHoliday
Celebrate the New Year with demonstrations of and participation in traditional Japanese mochi pounding and making the rice cakes. 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.
He lei Hiwa no Iolani Festival
01/29/2011 Performing ArtsCultural
Sheraton Keauhou. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor's Bureau.
Held in honor of beloved Hawaii Island hula dancer Iolani Luahine, this is a day filled with learning and sharing the traditions of the Hawaiian art of hula. Workshops are led by some of Hawaii’s most respected kumu hula (teachers) and the day culminates with a celebration of hula. Fee. Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona. For information call (808) 324-2553
Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
02/05/2011 - 02/06/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalExhibit-ShowCulinary
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.
Hawaiian Quilt Show
02/05/2011 - 02/06/2011 CulturalExhibit-Show
Quilting is one of Hawaii’s indigenous arts that is known world-wide and at this event you can view beautiful quilts and trace patterns from the collection of show sponsors Ka Hui Kapa Apana o Waimea. This special show is a part of the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. 10 a.m – 4 p.m. at the Thelma Parker Gymnasium in Waimea. (808) 775-0765 or e-mail rtanaka@hawai.rr.com
9th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival
02/12/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
Chinese lion dancers snake to Hilo’s Kalakaua Park which is transformed into a mini-Chinatown to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Performances, displays, cooking and cultural demonstrations show the Chinese influence in Hawaii. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free! Information: (808) 934-7010.
Hawaii Island Chinese Film Festival
02/13/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinaryHoliday
Palace Theater, Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
This special film screening is a part of 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.
Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Institute
02/17/2011 - 02/20/2011 Performing ArtsCulturalConference-Workshop
Open to everyone from beginners to experts, this institute features workshops, lessons, jam sessions and more to help you better play and enjoy Hawaiian music. Three free public concerts/ events are open to the public and include a kanikapila at 7 p.m. Thursday, talk story at 2p.m. Saturday and finale concert 1 p.m. Sunday. www.kahilutheatre.org.
Annual Spring Dance Concert
03/26/2011 Performing ArtsCultural
A popular yearly dance concert featuring innovating new works by talented Big Island choreographers and dancers. Ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop and more. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 7:30 p.m. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Merrie Monarch Festival
04/24/2011 - 04/30/2011 Performing ArtsCultural
Merrie Monarach Hula. Photo by John Penisten, Big Island Visitor Bureau.
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
05/01/2011 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
Lei Day Festival
05/01/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
Photo courtesy Makahiki ma ka Ma'ukele
A family event celebrating Lei Day for all ages with lei-making demonstrations, lei contest and display, hula and ukulele performances, talk-story sessions, guided tours of the native forest and more. Lei contest is open to all ages and cash prizes are awarded for outstanding entries. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free. Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
"He Moolelo o Ka Lei”
05/01/2011 Performing ArtsCulturalExhibit-Show
Photo courtesy Makahiki ma ka Ma'ukele
This Lei Day event kicks off a celebration of the “story of the lei” for the month of May in Hilo. Event features Hawaiian music by well known entertainers, hula, lei-making demonstrations and the heritage, history and culture of the lei. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Kalakaua Park in downtown Hilo. Free. For more information, call 895-0850 or visit www.Leiday.net.
MAMo Native Hawaiians Arts & Cultural Festival
05/21/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalExhibit-Show
This special native Hawaiian Arts Market and Cultural Festival will feature more than 25 native Hawaiian visual artists, cultural demonstrations and performing artists. A rare opportunity to meet the artists! Plus keiki art tent, handcrafted items and fine contemporary art work. Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona. (808) 324-2553 or www.maoliartsmonth.org.
Hilo Inter-Tribal PowWow
05/28/2011 - 05/30/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalExhibit-ShowCulinaryHoliday
Everyone is invited to experience the sights, sounds, flavors and spirit of Native America through music, dance, storytelling, food, arts and crafts at this free family-oriented event with opportunities for audience participation throughout the weekend. At Wailoa River Park in Hilo. This is a drug and alcohol free event. For more information, go to www.hilopowwow.com. e-mail to info@hilopowwow.com or (808) 557-8607
King Kamehameha Day Celebration
06/10/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinaryHoliday
King Kamehameha Statue, Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
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, with activities at Kamehameha Park. Call (808) 884-5168.
Kamehameha Festival
06/10/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalCulinaryHoliday
This festival features features a hoolaulea with top Hawaii recording artists, 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. Call (808) 989-4844 or visit www.kamehamehafestival.org. A no alcohol, no drug event.
King Kamehameha Day Parade
06/11/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCulturalHoliday
King Kamehameha Statue, Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.
A beautiful floral parade through the heart of Kailua-Kona honoring the great Hawaiian monarch. Featuring Hawaiian-themed entries, including pau 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 Hawaiian Cultural Festival
06/25/2011 - 06/26/2011 FamilyCulturalNatural History
This fun 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, canoe rides, lei making and much more. 9 a.m – 3 p.m. No park fees this weekend. (808) 328-2326, ext. 32 or visit www.nps.gov/puho.
Turtle Independence Day
07/04/2011 FamilyCulturalNatural HistoryHoliday
Green Sea Turtle. Photo courtesy C. Engelhardt
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.
Kilauea Cultural Festival
07/09/2011 FamilyCulturalNatural 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.
Establishment Day Hawaiian Festival
08/13/2011 - 08/14/2011 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.
Kona Style Slack Key Guitar Festival
09/04/2011 Performing ArtsCultural
Hawaii’s trademark method of tuning and playing the guitar – called “slack-key” – is showcased at this free music festival. Fifteen of the best slack-key artists from Hawaii and the Big Island will perform. Authentic Hawaiian music – an event not to miss! Noon – 5 p.m. Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona. (808) 226-2697 or visit www.slackkeyfestival.com
He Halia Aloha No Ka Queen Liliuokalani Festival
09/25/2011 Performing ArtsCultural
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.
Moku o Keawe International Hula Festival
11/03/2011 - 11/06/2011 FamilyPerforming ArtsCultural
A multi-day event celebrating the hula and the hula arts, 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 Marriott Resort. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit www.mokuokeawe.org
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
11/04/2011 - 11/13/2011 FamilyCulturalExhibit-ShowCulinaryAg 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 one of only two coffee festivals 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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