What’s happening in Kailua-Kona in December?

December is a busy month in Kailua-Kona. Here are just a few fun events to enjoy!

Joy to the World Concert – Dec 1

Celebrate the season with song at the Joy to the World concert on December 1 at 7:00 PM. Featuring the Kona Choral Society, guest singers, Kona Brass Quintet, and more at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. Enjoy Hawaiian choral music, holiday classics, and sing along to Christmas carols. Free event; donations appreciated. Bring the family!

Street Eats, A Kailua Village Food Truck Festival – Dec 2

The food trucks are back! Dec 2, 11:00-5:00, Alii Drive will close to vehicle traffic as food trucks line up in Historic Kailua Village offering a variety of the island’s best food trucks and food vendors of all kinds. 

Just for a teaser! Here are a few vendors that will be there: Sel’s Lunch Wagon, K.O. Pizza, Indo Grindz, Gallery Cuisine, Sugar’s Hawaii—BBQ and Desserts, Prioshki, Texas Island BBQ, Troy Farms, SweetKine808, Hungry Honu, Tooth Sweets Mochi Co., Toasty Dogs, Hamakua Creations, Makana Glass and Things, Kailani Surf, Scandanavian Shave Ice, JJ’s Mini Orbits, HI Bao Delicacies, Kona Sandwich Company, Kaawaloa Food Supply Co., Kapua’s Snack Box, and Kona Coffee Outlet

25th Annual Music & Light Festival in Holualoa Village – Dec 2

On December 2 enjoy the music and Lights Festival through Holualoa Village, from the historic Kona Hotel to the old Holualoa Library from 5:30-8:30pm. There will be treats and holiday specials at the galleries and shops. Bring the keiki and camera for a visit with Santa!

Waimea Christmas Parade – Dec 2

This parade starts at 5:30 at Waimea Park. The theme is “E Lauhoe Mai Na Wa’a’ – “Everyone Paddle the Canoe Together” 

Performances by Kona Aloha Singers

Dec 3 at 4:00 at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort
Dec 9 at the Kona Christmas Parade

KAS will be performing songs by One Republic, Pink, Maroon 5, Rascal Flatts, The Beach Boys, Miley Cyrus and more. Click here for tickets and enjoy the annual musical celebration

Kona Christmas Parade – Dec 9

This classic Christmas parade is a fun-filled event for the whole family. It features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. The parade starts at 5:00 PM and runs along Ali’i Drive. 

Leilani Christmas Market – Dec 10

The Leilani Christmas Market 2023 is a chance to find beautiful, locally-made gifts, treats plants, and more. From 10am to 2pm at the Leilani Estates Community pavilion near Pahoa (13-3441 Moku Street). Free to the public, the event offers wonderful handmade gifts made in the community. Follow the “Art in Leilani” signs

Jingle Bell Beach Run – Dec 17

This 5K run on Sunday, December 17 at 7:30 AM is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and see some of the beautiful scenery in Kailua-Kona. The run starts at Kona Coast State Park and ends at Kahalu’u Beach Park. Register here. If you need some help getting started, Big Island Running Company has a Couch to 5k program to get you going! 

Ongoing Events

Kokua Kailua Village Stroll

Once a month, on Alii Drive near the Pier, the street is closed for the Kokua Kailua Village Stroll. On Sunday, December 10 (coincides with the Kailua Kalikimaka Christmas celebration) from 1-6 pm, the street transforms into a bustling market with local vendors and artists’ booths. Explore the vibrant stalls, shop for unique crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the stroll. This event is a perfect opportunity to support local businesses and artists while immersing yourself in the lively spirit of Kailua-Kona.

Free Hawaiian Music and Hula Show

Every Friday at Keauhou Shopping Center, you can enjoy a free Hawaiian music and hula show in the center courtyard from 6-7pm. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hawai’i as talented musicians and graceful hula dancers take the stage. This weekly event is a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty and artistry of traditional Hawaiian music and dance.

First Friday After Dark in Holualoa

On the first Friday of every month, the quaint village of Holualoa comes alive with a block party. From 5:30-8:30pm, locals and visitors gather to explore the town’s art galleries and boutiques, listen to live music, and indulge in gourmet “grab and go” food. This festive event is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local art and culture scene while enjoying the warm hospitality of the community.

Kailua-Kona January Events

Hawaii Open Pickleball Championships Jan 22-24

Looking for something to do in the evening. Check out this article.

And, of course, the beaches are always festive!