ONGOING EVENTS
Every Friday at Keauhou Shopping Center, Kona
Enjoy a free Hawaiian music and hula show in the center courtyard, from 6-7pm.
First Fridays in Holualoa
On the first Friday of every month, from 5:30-8:30pm, Holualoa Village comes together for a block party in and outside the town’s art galleries and boutiques, with live music, gourmet “grab and go” food, and a chance to mingle with fellow art and culture lovers in the heart of Kona coffee country on the slopes of Hualalai. Rain or shine. Social Distancing, with face masks recommended.
Kokua Kailua Stroll
Monthly, usually on the third Sunday of the month, Alii Drive is closed for vendors and pedestrians from the Pier to the corner of Hualalai Road and Alii Drive. From 1pm to 6pm you can meet local artisans, food vendors and entertainers. On occasion there are also amazing performances of Hawaiian Music and Hula at Hulihee Palace! https://historickailuavillage.com/kokua-kailua
JANUARY 2024
January 14th: OperAloha
Tenor Moisés Salazár, mezzo-soprano Nikola Printz, bass-baritone Samson Setu, soprano Maria Valdes, and pianist/producer Ronny Michael Greenberg will take the audience on a journey through their artistic lives and share their love for opera.
This performance is part of the Kahilu Overture program in which children 8-18 will receive free admittance when accompanied by a ticket-holding parent. Please use promo code OVERTURE at the checkout (a maximum of three children per adult. Promo code offer is valid until Saturday, January 14, 2024, 5pm HST. Please contact the box office if you have any questions).
Tickets: https://kahilu.org/events/operaloha
January 15 to March 22, 2024
ANNUAL INVITATIONAL HAWAI’I WOOD GUILD SHOW – WAIMEA
See amazing creations by our island’s finest woodworkers, on display at Isaacs Art Center at Hawai’i Preparatory Academy. The exhibit is free and open to the public, Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Hawaii has some of the most amazing woodworkers! https://hawaiiforestinstitute.org/our-projects/hawaii-wood-guild/
January 21: Kamuela Philharmonic “Riding the Tides of Music” 2pm
Treat yourself to the Kamuela Philharmonic for an inspiring concert featuring the Richard Wagner’s Götterdämmerung: Rhine Journey, the world premiere of Hawaiian composer Paul Csige’s Surfing Symphony, and performances from the magnificent Madeline Schatz-Harris Youth Concerto Competition winners.
Tickets: https://kahilu.org/events/riding-the-tides-of-music/
January 24 – 27 Hawaii Open Pickleball Championships
Hawaii’s first and only truly professional pickleball tournament will be held at the recently upgraded Holua Racquet & Paddle Club in Kona. With both professional and amateur brackets, this event brings players from all over North America to play at the best pickleball facility in the entire Hawaii Islands!
The event will feature live music, food trucks, clinics prior to the event and much more.
Find more information here: https://tinyurl.com/mkrzxmjm
February 2024
February 3: Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival 9am to 3pm
One of the most beloved festivities on the Island of Hawaii! Every year the Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival takes place on the first Saturday of February. It really is an event not to be missed! Enjoy Hawaiian music, food booths, mochi pounding demonstrations, origami classes and a display of bonsai trees. It will be located at the Church Row Park in the center of town.
February 17 – 18: Annual Panaewa Stampede Rodeo
You don’t have be in Texas to enjoy a genuine rodeo! Hawaiian cowboys, locally called Paniolos, are the real deal!
Check it out: https://www.panaewastampederodeo.com/
February 24- 25: Annual SOKO (South Kona) Artist Studio Weekend 9am to 4pm
Fun event with great art from the dedicated artists of south Kona! Visit the artists in their studios!
Learn more about them here: https://sokoartists.com/hawaii-artists
MARCH 2024
March 9, 2024
29th ANNUAL KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL
Tickets go on Sale January 16, 2024! https://konabrewersfestival.com/kona-brewers-festival
This popular event that sells out every year! Enjoy tastings of over 30 local and craft brews, gourmet bites from over 24 local chefs, live music, and the much anticipated Trash Fashion show. To promote sustainability, Kona Brewers Festival is a zero waste event and is made possible thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who do everything from pour beer, oversee operations to ensure zero waste, and throw a really great party. The Trash Fashion Show showcases models who run the catwalk in elaborate haute couture fashions made from completely recycled materials and designed by local artists. As part of a zero waste commitment, over 90% of festival waste is diverted from landfills by converting waste into composted soil for local school gardens. Over the years, this event has raised more than $1.4 million in low restriction funds for island organizations.
March 24: Kamuela Philharmonic “Greatness from Start to Finish” 2pm
The Kamuela Philharmonic’s MasterWorks season finale promises to captivate and delight! Witness the magic of Haydn’s very first symphony, a true masterpiece. Be mesmerized by Maestro Dollinger’s wife and guest artist, Rei Hotoda, as she graces the stage with Jesse Montgomery’s acclaimed Rounds for piano and string orchestra—a moment to cherish for both artist and conductor. Feel the enchanting power of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, a favorite of Maestro Dollinger; a brilliant uplifting and triumphant piece.
Repertoire
Franz Josef Haydn – Symphony No. 1 in D major
Jesse Montgomery – Rounds for piano and string orchestra
Antonin Dvořák – Symphony No. 8 in G major, op. 88
Tickets: https://kahilu.org/events/greatness-from-start-to-finish/
April 2024
March 31- April 6, 2024
MERRIE MONARCH HULA FESTIVAL – AFOOK CHINEN CIVIC AUDITORIUM, HILO
The prestigious annual hula competition is THE biggest event in Hilo, if not on the entire island! Please visit www.merriemonarch.com for more details.
April 3 to April 6, 2024
MERRIE MONARCH ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR – AFOOK CHINEN CIVIC AUDITORIUM AND BUTLER BUILDING, HILO
The official arts and crafts fair of the Merrie Monarch Festival, supporting Hawai’i’s artisans and creators, will take place Wednesday-Friday from 9am-5pm, and Saturday from 9am-4pm. Free Admission.
April 6, 2024
Merrie Monarch Royal Parade 10:30am through downtown Hilo.
Flowers, costumes, dancers, riders with their gorgeous horses – witnessing this colorful and soulful parade is an unforgettable experience! Come early, and bring folding chairs or a blanket!
April 4, 5, and 6, 2024
ANNUAL HAWAII ARTS, CRAFTS & FOOD FESTIVAL
Nani Mau Gardens, 421 Makalika St, Hilo
The Hawaii Arts, Crafts & Food Festival, held during Merrie Monarch Week, showcases some of the finest artisans, crafters, gift and food vendors throughout the state and the mainland. This event celebrates the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii’s diverse people, its environment, and its food. Free prize giveaways, live performances and music throughout the event. Admission is free. For more information, call (808) 981-0518, email [email protected] or visit hawaiiartsandcraftsfestival.com.
April 4-6, 2024 Kona Steel Guitar Festival
OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT & SPA, KEAUHOU
Featuring a great lineup of steel players. Free to the public. The event’s emcee will be Kimo Kahoano. For more information about the festival events, visit konasteelguitarfestival.com.
April 20, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY – 1st DAY OF NATIONAL PARK WEEK
No entry fees to our national parks!
Stay informed about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm
April 26 – 27, 2024
BIG ISLAND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL – WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
A festive evening gala with culinary booths, chocolate fountain, entertainment, dancing, a silent auction and some surprises! Guests can enjoy unlimited wine, iced tea and coffee. At the gala, a panel of invited judges and attendees will again vote on best sweet and savory selections while culinary stations will vie in a contest for Best Decorated Booth to this year’s sensory theme. A photo booth will provide fun, playful props geared to the “Indulge the Senses” event theme. Details: BigIslandChocolateFestival.com
May 2024
May 1, 2024
HILO LEI DAY FESTIVAL
May Day is Lei Day in Hawai’i. Come celebrate lei culture on May 1st in beautiful downtown Hilo, at Kalakaua Park from 10am to 2pm, featuring live Hawaiian music, hula halau, lei making demonstrations, and more! No vendors or food trucks. Please bring your own chairs, mats, and snacks. Natural shade provided by Hilo’s wonderful, big old trees.
May 5th: Kamuela Philharmonic “Pops!” 2pm
The Philharmonic is bringing back the POPS!, a true fan favorite. A a musical extravaganza featuring not only well-known classical pieces but also an eclectic mix of selections from the stage and silver screen. Don’t miss this unforgettable event that blends timeless classics with modern favorites.
Tickets: https://kahilu.org/events/pops/
May 11, 2024
KONA ORCHID SOCIETY SPRING SHOW & SALE – MAKAEO COUNTY PAVILION, OLD KONA AIRPORT STATE RECREATION AREA
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the Kona Orchid Society Spring Show & Sale will take place inside and out oft the Makaeo County Pavilion at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area. The nominal admission fee includes a host of educational offerings. The fun includes a display of blooming orchids by club members and a sale presenting a wide selection of healthy plants from Hawai‘i Island growers. Jams, jellies, arts and crafts and high-fire functional stoneware will also be sold. Food vendors will be on site. Attendees are invited to talk story with growers and on-site master gardeners for tried-and-true growing tips.
June 2024
June tba, 2024
BIG ISLAND JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL – MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL
Oceanfront performances, from 5-9PM, with Grammy Award winners, Grammy nominated artists, Music Hall of Fame members and jazz and blues legends. Gates open at 4:30PM. Visit www.Bigislandjazzandbluesfestival.com for more details.
June 7 to 9, 2024
7th ANNUAL HAWAI’I KUAULI PACIFIC & ASIA CULTURAL FESTIVAL – KAILUA-KONA
An exciting 3-day event held in Kailua-Kona on Kamehameha Day weekend at the Courtyard Marriott’s King Kamehamehaʻs Kona Beach Hotel.The weekend will be filled with cultural festivities, workshops, entertainment and educational programs. The focus of this festival is to support the local economy, promotion of Hawai’i Island, Pacific & Asian cultural education, and to support community equity with those participating in the festival and those attending the festival worldwide. Visit www.hikuauli.com for more details.
June 11, 2024
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION PARADE – KAILUA-KONA
Featuring more than 100 riders on horseback, the annual parade and ho‘olaule‘a (music and art festival) fittingly return this year on Kamehameha Day in Historic Kailua Village. Kamehameha Day is a state and county holiday established in 1871 to honor Kamehameha the Great, who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 and became Hawaii’s first king. He died in 1819. This year’s parade begins at 9 a.m. on Kuakini Highway, near the Palani Road intersection, and travels down Palani to Kailua pier, then southbound down Alii Drive through the village to Royal Kona Resort. Adorned in the flowers and colors of the Hawaiian Islands, pa‘u riders on horseback will represent each of the eight islands, led by their respective princesses and the pa‘u queen. The equestrian units are joined by cultural representatives, floats and other community entries. To participate in the parade, visit konaparade.org/applications. Other help needed includes volunteers to work with police officers to help secure road closures and vendors to participate in the ho‘olaulea at Hulihe‘e Palace following the parade. For more details on the parade, visit konaparade.org.
June 11, 2024
KING KAMEHAMEHA DAY CELEBRATION – NORTH KOHALA
Hawaiians set aside June 11 annually as a state holiday to honor the legacy of King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian islands in 1795. As the king’s birthplace, North Kohala plays a very special role in the celebration. The original statue of King Kamehameha I, which was once thought lost at the bottom of the sea, has stood proudly in North Kohala since 1912. This year, statue decoration ceremonies will begin at 8:00am, culminating with the King’s statue in Kapaʻau being draped with 20-foot floral and ti lei, with hula, chant, history, and music. Ceremonies include participation by the Royal Order of Kamehameha, members of the Hawaiian Civic Club and Ka’ahumanu Society. From 9:00-10:00am, the colorful floral parade will take place, featuring traditional Hawaiian pāʻū riders and honorees. Hoʻolauleʻa festivities will also be held in Kapaʻau’s King Kamehameha Park.
June TBA, 2024
12th ANNUAL HAWAI’I ISLAND LGBTQ+ PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL – HILO
Parade at 11am; Festival, noon-4 to be held at Moʻoheau Bandstand, with food, keiki activities, and live entertainment.
July 2024
July 4, 2024
NA’ALEHU INDEPEDENCE DAY PARADE – NA’ALEHU PARK, KA’U
11am. After the Parade, enjoy pizza, shave ice, watermelon, a water slide, a bouncy house, Senior Bingo/Luncheon. There will also be vendors at the regular Farmers Market site in town. For more info, contact OKK at 808-929-9872 or visit www. okaukakou.org.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS – KAILUA-KONA
Parade at 6pm; Fireworks over Kailua Bay at 8pm.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS – HILO
At 8 p.m., the “Hilo Bay Blast” fireworks exhibition will begin with professional pyrotechnics set off from a barge moored in Hilo Bay. The Hawai‘i County Band will present a live accompaniment to the fireworks with a performance that begins at 7 p.m. at the Mo‘oheau Park bandstand. For those not near the bandstand, the fireworks display will be synchronized to patriotic music aired on KWXX.
July 4, 2024
4th OF JULY EVENTS (INCLUDING ANNUAL RUBBER DUCKIE RACE) – WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT
Schedule of Events: 11am, A-Bay’s Island Grill Watermelon-Eating Contest; 12 noon, Original Big Island Shave Ice Co.’s Shave Ice-Eating Contest; 1-3pm, Live Performances; 3pm Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race at Lakeside; 3:30pm, Duck Waddling & Duck Calling Contests; 4:30pm, Duck Hunt Winners; 5pm, Awards Ceremony.
July TBA, 2024
HILO ORCHID SOCIETY SALE – EDITH KANAKA’OLE STADIUM
Each year the Hilo Orchid Society stages the largest and most comprehensive orchid show and sale in the state of Hawai`i. The show takes place at the Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium in Hilo. For more info, visit
August 2024
August 4, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE GREAT AMERICAN OUTDOORS ACT
No entry fees to our national parks!
August TBA2024
ANNUAL HAWAIIAN CULTURAL RESTIVAL PU’UKOHOLA HEIAU NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, KAWAIHAE
Festivities will commence on Saturday at 6:00 a.m. with a hoʻokupu (gift giving) ceremony, followed by various workshops and demonstrations showcasing traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts, such as ulana lauhala (lauhala weaving), holo waʻa (canoe rides), kuiki (quilting), Hawaiian games, lei haku ame lei wili (different lei making styles), ulana niu (coconut frond weaving), kapa making, ʻohe hano ihu (bamboo nose flute), and live Hawaiian music. The event will continue on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and both days will conclude at 3:00 p.m. The event is free to attend and will be held at Pelekane Bay, below Puʻukoholā Heiau in Kawaihae. To find parking, follow the signs along the roadway near the park. The weather in Kawaihae is typically dry and humid, so it is recommended that attendees use sunscreen, wear comfortable clothing, and bring their own water, refreshments, and lunch if planning on staying all day. This free public event is sponsored by the National Park Service, Hawai’i Pacific Parks Association, and Nā Aikane o Puʻukoholā Heiau. For more information, please call 808-882-7218 ext. 1101 or visit www.nps.gov/puhe.
August TBA, 2024
ANNUAL HANA NO’EAU HAWAIIAN ARTS FESTIVAL – HILO
Na Makua presents this free event to be held at Edith Kanaka’ole Tennis Stadium. The event is dedicated to the perpetuation of the Hawaiian culture and arts by offering a venue where Hawai’i’s master artists and producers can share their talent and mana‘o. This event will be featuring some of Hawai’i’s finest artisans and producers of Hawaiian arts and crafts, as well as cultural demonstrations, Hawaiian entertainment and ‘ono mea’ai. Please visit: https://namakua.com for more info about the event.
September 2024
September TBA, 2024
ANNUAL QUEEN LILI’UOKALANI OUTRIGGER LONG-DISTANCE CANOE RACE – KONA
The event’s signature Queen’s Race 18-mile long-distance race is scheduled for 7:30 a.m on Sept. 2., departing from Kailua Bay. The race will also be broadcast via livestream on Facebook. Follow @QueenLiliuokalaniCanoeRace for all the action. For the event’s five days, additional ocean races and events open to the public will take place; for a full list of these events, please visit www.qlcanoerace.com
September 7, 2024
QUEEN LILI’UOKALANI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION – LILI’UOKALANI GARDENS, HILO
From 10am-3pm at Lili’uokalani Gardens, enjoy a thrilling “Mass Hula” with many local halau participating together. There will also be a helicopter “flower drop”; Hawaiian games and demos; food trucks, children’s games; tea ceremony; and more free family fun. Entertainment will include many favorite local Hawaiian musicians. This is one of the most beautiful celebrations you can ever see and we are not exaggerating!
September 21, 2024
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE CELEBRATION – HONOKA’A
Peace Day, September 21, is the United Nations International Day of Peace, celebrated annually with concerts, cultural gatherings, religious services, dance and art happenings worldwide.
September 28, 2024
NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY HONORING NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY
No entry fees to our national parks!
STAY TUNED – The calendar will be updated as more dates and details will become known!