Veteran’s Day Parade – Nov. 8
Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity
08/30/2008 - 01/16/2009 Family Exhibit-Show
Yet another interesting offering available at this innovative astronomy center. This presentation blending science and visualization lets you fly through wormholes, experience the creation of the Milky Way galaxy and witness the death of a star. Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday. Call (808) 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org.
A Celebration of Hawaii's Food Culture
10/31/2008 - 01/31/2009 Exhibit-Show
Hawaii’s distinct food culture and its place in America’s culinary history are celebrated in this exhibition examining the evolution of the American kitchen as well as the historical, regional, and social traditions that merge on our tables. . At the Lyman Museum in Hilo; open Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.
more. Visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com for more information or contact (808) 886-7888.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
11/07/2008 - 11/16/2008 Family Cultural Exhibit-Show Culinary Ag Tourism
Since its inception in 1970, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival’s mission has been to preserve, perpetuate and promote Kona’s 179-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 (see next listing). Call (808) 326-7820 or visit www.konacoffeefest.com.
Ukulele and Slack Key Masters
11/07/2008 - 11/08/2008 Performing Arts
This always-anticipated Fall concert brings together Hawaii’s top master artists of the ukulele and Hawaiian slack key or kihoalu style guitar, including Cyril and Martin Pahinui, Peter Moon and the Pahinui Hawaiian Band, plus HAPA and Richard Hoopi. Kahilu Theater in Waimea. 8 p.m. both nights. (808) 885-6868 or www.kahilutheatre.org.
New Waves at NELHA Luncheon and Tour
11/07/2008 Culinary
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.
Black & White Night
11/07/2008 Family Performing Arts
Downtown Hilo’s biggest strolling party with free live jazz music venues, a treasure hunt through town, stores opening late with specials, sales, free food samples, author and artist receptions. Everyone dresses in black and white, some dress down in shorts and T-shirts, some dress up in gowns and suits to enter the “Best Dressed Black & White Contest” for cash prizes. Free! Information call (808) 933-9772 or amoon@bigisland.com
Annual Drum and Percussion Festival
11/08/2008 Performing Arts
An exciting evening of world percussion by local artists featuring diverse traditional & contemporary percussion performances from Hawai`i, 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.
Aloha Sundays
11/08/2008 Family Cultural Conference-Workshop
This monthly Hawaiian cultural event features performances, demonstrations, workshops, presentations and lectures at the East Hawaii Cultural Center and adjoining Kalakaua Heritage Park in Hilo. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on second Sunday of each month. Free entry to galleries; performance fees vary. Call (808) 935-9085 or visit www.ehcc.org.
Veteran’s Day Parade
11/08/2008 Family Holiday
This parade – honoring Hawaii’s men and women who have served their country in foreign conflicts – is one of only two such parades held in Hawaii annually. Bands, color guards, military units – more than 35 groups in all. This year’s parade honors the famed 100th Batallion/442nd Infantry regiment. 11 a..m. Downtown Hilo. For more information, call (808) 968-7425.
Islands of Life in the Pacific:The National Parks of Hawaii
11/11/2008 - 11/26/2008 Cultural Natural History Ag Tourism
Elder hostel Wahaula Hike by Paul J. Buklarewicz
This 16-day/15-night Elderhostel program visits Hawaii’s national parks, historical sites, national wildlife refuges, and state parks on the Big Island, Maui, Molokai, Kauai, and Oahu. Explore the richness of Hawaii’s people and places, flora and fauna on this educational adventure. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Rainbow Raw Games
11/20/2008 - 11/23/2008 Performing Arts Sports Culinary
A four-day physical and spiritual wellness happening featuring sporting events such as surfing, volleyball, ping-pong, ultimate Frisbee and mini-triathlon, complimented by live music performances, eco-education, workshops and presenters, meditation and the healthful benefits of eating raw food. Fee. Kalani Retreat / Resort in Pahoa. Call (808) 430-2299 or visit www.rainbowrawgames.org.
Bay Concert
11/22/2008 Family Performing Arts
Enjoy music by Na Hoku award winners Sista Robi Kahakalau and HAPA as comedian Frank De Lima keeps the laughs coming. 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.
Old Hawaii Night
11/22/2008 Culinary
A gala event with a theme of Hawaiiana from the 1940’s to the present, featuring cocktails, a sumptuous dinner, artwork, silent auction, and entertainment. A benefit for West Hawaii Family Support Services to help families and children. At the Waikoloa Marriott Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast. 5 p.m. dinner at 6:30. Fee. Call (808) 326-7778 or e-mail bfraser@fsswh.org.
Invitational Wreath Exhibit
11/22/2008 - 01/04/2009 Exhibit-Show Holiday
A unique collection of one-of-a-kind wreaths, from the highly whimsical to the classically traditional by various Big Island artists. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
A Tribute to King David Kalakaua
11/22/2008 Performing Arts Cultural
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. More than six 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.
Christmas in the Country
11/23/2008 - 11/29/2008 Exhibit-Show Holiday
Christmas in the Country, Courtesy Volcano Art Center
Special holiday celebrations include demonstrations and print and book signings by artists and authors, plus a fine selection of quality handcrafted decorations and gifts offered only during the holiday season. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (Park entrance fees apply). Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones
11/26/2008 - 11/27/2008 Performing Arts
Expected the unexpected from this celebrated, category-defying foursome as they create a brilliant melange of styles, from bluegrass to jazz to world beat. Fleck is the only musician to be nominated for Grammys in jazz, bluegrass, pop, country and five other categories. Kahilu Theater in Waimea. 7 p.m. both nights. (808) 885-6868 or www.kahilutheatre.org.
Volcano Village Art Studio Tour and Sale
11/28/2008 - 11/30/2008 Exhibit-Show Holiday
A Thanksgiving weekend tradition, the Volcano Village Artists Hui opens up their studios and offers a rare chance to meet and buy works directly from the creators and guest artists. Includes photography, fiber art, raku ceramics, painting, pottery, quilts, prints, textiles, wood sculpture, drawings and more. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day. Call (808) 987-3472 for information.
Keauhou Market and Chef’s Presentations
11/29/2008 Culinary Ag Tourism
Buy fresh and seasonal locally grown produce presented by the Keauhou Farmer’s Market and featured regional chefs. Learn about the fruits and vegetables, the growers and local culinary delights you can make. Keauhou Shopping Center in Kona from 8 a.m. – noon, presentations at 10 a.m. Free. Call (808) 324-6011 or www.keauhoufarmersmarket.com.
Holiday Arts & Fine Crafts Fair
11/29/2008 Exhibit-Show Holiday
This annual fair features a wide variety of one-of-a-kind creations made by some of Hawaii’s most talented artists. Lots of nice gifts for the holidays or to take back home to family and friends. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the East Hawaii Cultural Center, 141 Kalakaua Street in Hilo. Free. Call (808) 961-5711 or visit http//:www.youtube.com/easthawaiiculture.
Na Lima Hana Holiday Craft Fair
11/29/2008 - 11/30/2008 Family Exhibit-Show Holiday
More than 100 crafters from the Big Island will showcase their unique arts-and-crafts collectibles from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort. Items range from Hawaiian quilts and wood carvings to holiday ornaments and jewelry. Food and children’s games. Proceeds benefit United Way and the Hawaii Island Food Bank. For more information call 808-886-1234 extension 1202.
Christmas Wreath Making
12/02/2008 Cultural Holiday
Learn to make a beautiful wreath using foliage and flowers of the ohia tree with well-known floral designer Scott Seymour. Gather ohia and other natural materials as you drive to an historic mauka ranch home where you will make wreaths and have lunch. Meet at Kealakekua Ranch Center. 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Fee; membership required. Call (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org.
He Huaka I E Pana Ai Ke Ea
12/03/2008 - 12/06/2008 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 an in-depth look at regional musical compositions and related moolelo from Kailua-Kona. Various Kona locations. Fee. Calll (808) 722-8575 or (808) 896-1911 or visit www.cyrilpahinui.com.
Passport to International Cultures
12/05/2008 Culinary Holiday
A cultural journey of food and fun, this holiday event offers guests a taste of the different cultures of the world. Resort chefs showcase their unique cooking styles with food sampling from the resort’s best restaurants. Also features live entertainment and visit from Santa. 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Kings Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort. Admission fee. Call (808) 886-8811 or visit www.waikolobeachresort.com
Christmas Tree Lighting
12/05/2008 Family Exhibit-Show Holiday
Watch a winter wonderland come to life at this Hawaiian-
style Christmas season kickoff, featuring festive hula, a keiki chorus and lots of beautiful lighted trees. The
event will feature the unveiling of a working model train display. At the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort on the Kohala Coast. For more information call (808) 886-2884.
Christmas at Kona Village
12/05/2008 Culinary Holiday
This 20th annual culinary gala rolls out the holiday red and green carpet, featuring oh-so-tasty cuisine prepared by top Hawaii chefs, musical entertainment and a grand silent auction benefiting the Kona Community Hosptial Foundation. Presented by the Kona-Kohala Chapter Chefs de Cuisine at Kona Village Resort 6 – 9 p.m. $85. For more information call (808) 938-2120 or watrgrl@hawaiiantel.net.
Oh Christmas Tree
12/05/2008 - 12/30/2008 Family Exhibit-Show Holiday
This popular holiday season event showcases dozens of artistically and creatively decorated Christmas trees and wreaths by private and non-profit groups from around Hawai‘i Island. Wailoa Center in Hilo. Free. Weekdays only 8:30-4:30 (noon – 4:30 Wednesday). (808) 933-0416.
Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade and All-Day Festival
12/06/2008 Family Holiday
An anticipated annual event in Waimea, this celebration features a day full of activities all over town, capped by a festive parade – of lighted trucks! – beginning at 6 p.m. from historic Church Row to the Parker Ranch Center. Call (808) 937-2833 for more information.
Three Extraordinary Women
12/07/2008 Performing Arts
This special living history performance explores the lives and experiences of three women who came to Kona at different times in the past two hundred years, including traveler/author Isabella Bird, settler Kiyono Hamachi, and English immigrant Elizabeth Greenwell. 2 p.m. Parker School in Waimea; $15. Call (808) 323-3222 or visit www.konahistorical.org.
John Keawe Slack Key Concert
12/09/2008 Performing Arts
Award-winning Hawai‘i Island musician John Keawe performs vocals and slack key guitar selections from his newest CD, Hawaii Island…is my Home, along with elegant and graceful hula by his wife Hope. Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free; 7 p.m. (808) 985-6014 www.nps.gov/havo
Charity Trees at Mauna Lani
12/09/2008 - 01/05/2009 Family Holiday
Now in its 15 year, this annual Yule event features numerous Christmas trees set up and decorated with special themes by various Hawaii Island charitable organizations. Vote for your favorite creatively and festively decorated tree with a minimum $1 donation, helping these groups raise money for needed community services. Mauna Lani Bay Hotel on the Kohala Coast. Call (808) 881-7002.
Kona Christmas Parade
12/13/2008 Family Holiday
An anticipated holiday event, which this year has as its theme Na Mele o Kalikimaka – The Songs of Christmas. Business and community groups, musical and choral groups and many others take part in this colorful parade, which proceeds along Kuakini Highway, down Palani Road and along Alii Drive to Coconut Grove Marketplace. 5 p.m. (808) 329-5226 or visit www.konaparades.com.
VAC Annual Holiday Concert – Yuletide Aloha
12/17/2008 Family Performing Arts Holiday
Christmas in the Country, Courtesy Volcano Art Center
This show is Volcano Art Center’s yearly holiday gift of family entertainment to the community, featuring local talent, good cheer, a festive atmosphere, and an audience carol sing-along. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Free (calabash donations welcome). Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Wailea Village Historic Preservation – Mochi Pounding
12/28/2008 Family Cultural 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.
MasterCard Championship at Hualalai
01/18/2009 - 01/26/2009 Sports
Now in its 12th year, this annual PGA golf event at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Golf Club is the first match of the year on the PGA Champions Tour. It features 36 top golfers who have won Champions Tour or other PGA majors or money events in a 54-hole competition for a total purse of $1.8 million. Contact (808) or visit www.hualalairesort.com
Elder Hostel Honu & Wahine, Courtesy Volcano Art Center
This 16-day/15-night Elderhostel program visits Hawai‘i’s national parks, historical sites, national wildlife refuges, and state parks on the Big Island, Maui, Molokai, Kauai, and Oahu. Explore the richness of Hawaii’s people and places, flora and fauna, past and present on this educational adventure. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
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He Lei Hiwa No Iolani Luahine Hula and Scholarship Award Festival
01/30/2009 - 01/31/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
This event honors Hawaii Island’s cherished cultural historian, legendary hula master and Living Treasure of Hawaii, Iolani Luahine. Performance, talk story, workshops and films held on the front lawn of the Kona Inn overlooking Kailua Bay. Various hula masters will participate. 1- 8 p.m. lkalilma1@hawaii.rr.com
International Nights
02/06/2009 - 02/07/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
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
Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
02/07/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural
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.
Kona History Cruise
02/08/2009 Cultural Natural 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.
Hawaii Island Chinese Film Festival
02/13/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
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.
7th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival
02/14/2009 Performing Arts Cultural Exhibit-Show
Chinese lion dancers snake to Hilo’s Kalakaua 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 visit www.poshfestivals.com.
Islands of Life in the Pacific: The National Parks of Hawaii
02/17/2009 - 03/04/2009 Cultural Natural History
Elder hostel Wahaula Hike by Paul J. Buklarewicz
This 16-day/15-night Elderhostel program visits Hawai‘i’s national parks, historical sites, national wildlife refuges, and state parks on the Big Island, Maui, Molokai, Kauai, and Oahu. Explore the richness of Hawaii’s people and places, flora and fauna, past and present on this educational adventure. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
11h Annual Weekend Writer's Retreat
02/20/2009 - 02/22/2009 Conference-Workshop
Join an intimate community of writers in a focused weekend of writing, sharing, and inspiration. Improve the emotion, depth, and potency of your work via extensive writing exercises, friendly reading of work, and engaging group discussion. Open to all levels. Volcano Art Center. Call (808) 967-8222 for fees and housing information or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Girls’ Day Diva Festival
03/02/2009 Performing Arts
This special annual event features a performance by the Society of Seven, the popular and long-running lounge act from Waikiki. Their 7 p.m. performance is preceded from 5 – 7 p.m. by food sampling courtesy of women owned and operated businesses as well as merchandise sales and door prizes. UH – Hilo Performing Arts Center. Small fee. http://artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.
Big Island Woodturners Show
03/06/2009 - 03/26/2009 Exhibit-Show
The Big Island’s most talented woodworkers display dozens of turned wood pieces crafted from native and other woods, including bowls, vases, calabashes and art objects. A don’t miss show of craftsmanship and beauty at Hilo’s Wailoa Center. Demonstrations, chances to meet the woodworkers, items for sale. Free. Weekdays 8:30-4:30 (noon – 4:30 Wednesday) (808) 933-0416.
Kona Brewers Festival
03/14/2009 Culinary
This annual festival promotes craft brewing in Hawai’i and promotes recycling. Expect about 60 craft beers from Hawai‘i and the U.S. Mainland, plus gourmet food. Also special Brewer’s Dinner, Golf Tourney and Run for the Hops. Held under swaying palm trees at the King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. 2:30 – 6:30 p.m. Fee. (808) 331-3033 or visit www.konabrewersfestival.com
Islands of Life in the Pacific: The National Parks of Hawaii
03/15/2009 - 03/30/2009 Cultural Natural History
Elder hostel Rainforest Hike by Paul J. Buklarewicz
This 16-day/15-night Elderhostel program visits Hawai‘i’s national parks, historical sites, national wildlife refuges, and state parks on the Big Island, Maui, Molokai, Kauai, and Oahu. Explore the richness of Hawaii’s people and places, flora and fauna, past and present on this educational adventure. (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Big Island International Marathon
03/22/2009 Sports
In this annual marathon and 10.8-mile and 3.1-mile fun runs, participants run the coast of old Hawaii along the Pacific Ocean, through tropical rainforests, past rushing waterfalls and along black lava beaches to finish at the historic Hilo Bay front. A flat, cool and fun course in the beautiful Hilo area. Call (808) 969-7400 or visit www.hilomarathon.org.
Haili Men’s Invitational Volleyball Tournament
03/23/2009 - 03/28/2009 Sports
Now more than a half-century old, this popular sporting event features novice to nationally ranked AA players from around the United States. The five-day tourney is held at the Hilo Civic Auditorium and other locations around Hilo. A great reason to visit Hilo if you are into volleyball. Call (808) 961-3633.
Annual Spring Dance Concert
03/28/2009 Performing Arts
A popular yearly dance concert featuring innovative 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. $12 adults / $10 seniors (65 & up) and children (12 & under). Call(808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Aloha Hawaiian Night
03/28/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural
A special evening to showcase the native Hawaiian culture of the Kona area. Features hula, Hawaiian music, local food, lei making, Hawaiian-made crafts, silent auction. A benefit to help Kailua Pier beautification efforts. Sponsored by Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Merchants and County of Hawai‘i. Free. 5 – 10 p.m. Call 334-0562 or kvmarie@hawaii.rr.com.
Lavaman Triathlon
03/29/2009 Sports
The 11th Annual Lavaman Triathlon and Sports Festival is an extravaganza of sports and fitness. This 10K-run, 40K-bike and 1.5K-swim and Olympic distance course at the Waikoloa Beach Resort is open to individuals and relay teams of all ages and abilities. It is followed by an awards party and beach barbeque at Anaehoomalu Bay. Visit www.lavamantriathlon.com for more information.
Kona Chocolate Festival and Symposium
04/04/2009 Culinary
This sweet and distinctive festival celebrates chocolate and the cacao industry. Taste chocolate creations by the top chefs and chocolatiers of the Big Island, enjoy wine and champagne, live music, silent auction, buffet and much more. 6 – 10 p.m. Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona. Tickets: $40. (808) 987-8722 or visit www.konachocolatefestival.com
Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Quilt Exhibit
04/04/2009 - 04/30/2009 Cultural Exhibit-Show
The making of beautiful quilts reflecting the themes of Hawaiian culture and history, nature and other subjects is a traditional and classic art in Hawai‘i. This annual show features some of the best by Big Island and other quiltmakers. Wailoa Center at Wailoa State Park in Hilo. Free. Hours:Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:30 – 4:30; Weds noon – 4:30; Sat 9 – 3; (808) 933-0416
Merrie Monarch Hula Festival
04/12/2009 - 04/18/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
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) 969-9700 or visit www.merriemonarchfestival.org.
Earth Festival - Coral Reef Awareness Day
04/18/2009 Natural History
A special event that’s part of the Kona Earth Day Festival, this day kicks off ongoing cultural programming at Kahalu‘u Bay Beach Park in Kona. Hawai‘i County’s most popular park, this protected bay is ideal for snorkeling with lots of corals, friendly fish and chance to see endangered green sea turtles. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (808) 887-6411; www.konaearthfestival.org.
Earth Day Fair
04/18/2009 Performing Arts Exhibit-Show Conference-Workshop
A day of festivities and helpful information devoted to our Earth and the environment with displays, educational presentations, informative talks plus live music and entertainment. Coordinated by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. Call (808) 329-1758 or visit www.konaearthfestival.org.
Kona Earth Festival
04/18/2009 - 05/10/2009 Natural History Exhibit-Show Conference-Workshop
A celebration of the natural environment and how to better care for it, this festival features more than a dozen events spread over several weeks, including a recycled art and fashion show, Malama Aina Cleanup Day, dryland forest restoration project, community tree planting, NELHA and Hualalai tours, whalewatching, etc. Complete schedule at www.konaearthfestival.org. or (808) 329-9220.
He Launa Aloha No Ka Moi Kalakaua
04/18/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural
The life, times, music, and dance of the Hawaiian Monarchy era will be featured at the summer playground of King Kalakaua, the beautiful Kalakaua Park. The day will feature hula, singing, ukulele playing, storytelling, food and crafts; hosted by Hawaiian music icon Palani Vaughn. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free! (808) 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com.
May Day is Lei Day
05/01/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
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. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com.
Astro Day Festival
05/02/2009 Family Exhibit-Show
A great opportunity to learn about astronomy on the Big Island of Hawaii, space exploration and a wide variety of great galactic stuff at this special day featuring interactive displays, exhibits, and much more of interest. Door prizes, musical entertainment and much more at this popular annual event. Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free. Call (808) 932-2328 or visit www.astroday.net.
May Day Lei Day Festival
05/03/2009 Performing Arts Cultural
This beautiful aloha-filled event in downtown Hilo celebrates the Hawaiian art of lei making. The festival features a spectacular lei display, lei contest, silent auction, “hands-on”demonstrations, live music and hula with local Hawaiian musicians, plus historic slides and short films with master lei makers. 1 – 4 p.m. at the Palace Theater. Free. Visit www.hilopalace.com or call 934-7010
Big Island Film Festival
05/14/2009 - 05/17/2009 Performing Arts
This growing Hawaiian film festival is dedicated to new independent narrative films and filmmakers as well as established films and actors. Held at the Waikoloa Beach Resort, it includes outdoor and indoor movie venues, social events, music, food, filmmaker panels, awards brunch and chances to meet filmmakers and actors. Tickets: $5. Contact 883-0394 or visit www.bigislandfilmfestival.com.
Honokaa Town Western Week and Rodeo
05/16/2009 - 05/24/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary Ag Tourism
Popular annual celebration featuring Saturday Paniolo Parade with an agricultural festival, kids’ activities and exciting contests; May 22 Paniolo Barbecue and giant Block Party with live Country Western dance music, a live auction and live Saloon Girl Contest and Rodeo on Memorial Day weekend. Information: (808) 885-5580 or bifb@hawaiiantel.net
Ford Half-Ironman Triathlon
05/30/2009 Sports
This event is half the Ironman distance – 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run – and is held at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii Resort on the Kohala Coast and is part of the official qualifier series for the 2007 Ironman Triathlon World Championship held in Kailua Kona later in the year. Call (808) 329-0063 or visit www.ironman.com.
Hawaii Photo Exhibit
06/05/2009 - 06/26/2009 Exhibit-Show
This 10th annual exhibit sponsored by the Hilo Photography Club always features a collection of black & white and color photos by local photographers evoking a wide variety of subjects – the people, place and things that are Hawaii. Wailoa Arts and Culture Center at Wailoa State Park in Hilo. Free. Hours:Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:30 – 4:30; Weds noon – 4:30; Sat 9 – 3; (808) 933-0416.
The Brothers Cazimero
06/06/2009 Performing Arts
The brothers Cazimero pioneered a renaissance in Hawaiian culture in the early 1970s, making an indelible mark on contemporary Hawaiian music. Consummate musicians, Robert and Roland have enjoyed almost four decades of uninterrupted success unrivaled by any other performer in Hawaii. 8 p.m. Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. Tickets $40/45 (808) 885-6868 or visit www.kahilutheatre.org
King Kamehameha Day Celebration
06/10/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural
Come to the northern tip of the Big Island to honor the legendary Hawaiian king in his North Kohala birthplace. A floral parade, ceremony draping the King’s statue in lei, hula, food booths and musical performances mark this special day. Call (808) 884-5000 or visit www.kamehamehadaycelebration.org.
King Kamehameha Day Parade
06/13/2009 Family Cultural
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. 9 – Noon on Alii Drive.
Dolphin Days
06/18/2009 - 06/21/2009 Performing Arts Culinary
Now in its 15h year, Dolphin Days is an annual four-day festival of events inspired by the playful dolphins at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Dolphin Quest and is designed to benefit Hawaii Shriners Hospital for Children and the Pacific Marine Life Foundation. Events include an opening dinner, luau, golf and tennis tournaments, dolphin programs and the signature event – The Great Waikoloa Food, Wine and Music Festival, featuring top Hawaii chefs and name entertainers. For more information visit www.dolphindays.com or www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com or call 808-886-1234, ext. 2884.
Puuhonua o Honaunau Annual Cultural Festival
06/27/2009 - 06/28/2009 Family Cultural Natural History
This enjoyable and educational festival is held in Kona at Pu‘uhonua 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.
Kona Marathon and Family Fun Runs
06/28/2009 Sports
More than a decade old, this event has become Kona’s premier road race, featuring four great races for the whole family – marathon, half-marathon, and 5-K and 10-K runs. Held at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Hotel. For more information call (808)325-0287 or visit www.konamarathon.com
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 Hilo High School Auditorium featuring artists from around Hawaii. Noon – 6 p.m. Sponsored by the East Hawaii Cultural Center. Call (808) 935-9085 or visit www.ehcc.org for more information.
Hawaii’s World Heritage Festival
08/14/2009 Family Performing Arts Cultural Culinary
Hawaii’s World Heritage Festival showcases the tapestry of people and cultures who have come to Hawai‘i. Dancing, music, demonstrations, fashion, arts, crafts, food and products from around the world. A colorful, international event celebrating Hawai‘i’s 50th anniversary of Statehood. Mo‘oheau Park and Bandstand on the bayfront in Hilo. 3 – 10 p.m. Free! Information: (808) 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com.
