Events in and around Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Follow these posts for festivals, parades, sporting events, and more on the Big Island of Hawai’i.

Every month we’ll give you an overview of things to do on the island.

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Mark Your Calendars! 2025 Big Island Event Dates!

Biker during the Ironman World Championship

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It’s a brand New Year! Mark your calendar for some 2025 Big Island event dates so you can come help us celebrate!

The Ironman Championship will be held on October 11, 2025. This year the women will take their turn competing in Kona.

Coming up much faster is the:

Waimae Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival on February 1st

The Merrie Monarch Festival runs April 20-26

The Hawaii Kuauli Pacific and Asia Cultural Festival runs June 6-8th

& in my humble opinion the best festival of any festival anywhere:

chocolates

The Big Island Chocolate Festival running April 10-12

What could be better than chocolate and Hawaii?

Make sure to stay tuned for updated information and new events all year…

Mahalo!

 

*These dates are subject to change in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances. Feel free to email or contact us for further information where available!

 

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The Big Island Holiday Market

Fireworks in Kailua Kona

 

It’s the Holiday Season in Hawaii! Join us this Saturday, November 23rd from 3- 9 pm for the Big Island Holiday Market.

A great chance to get all your holiday (or just plain any) shopping done in one shot while supporting local vendors, artists and small businesses. Admission to the festival is free.

The Holiday Market takes place at Kona Brewing Hawaii and includes food and lovely live music! Even better it’s family and pet friendly so you can feel free to bring the little ones!

 

 

The Big Island Holiday Market

Kona Brewing Hawaii

74-5588 Pawai Place

 

Checkout availability at nearby Kona Islander Inn where we have several properties available!

 

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The 53rd Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Begins Today!

Headed out for some coffee!

 

The 53rd Kona Coffee Cultural Festival begins today and runs through November 10th! The event celebrates nearly 200 years of Kona Coffee making traditions with lots of fun and and varied activties.

You can purchase a $5.00 Kona Coffee button that will act as your ticket to events throughout the whole Festival. (Children under five are free.)

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Lantern parade is tonight (November 1st) at 6 pm and over the next several days you can take part in many varied events. These include markets, art events, farm tours, plenty of tastings (of course), brewing workshops, contests, a scholarship competition and perhaps most interesting barista training! (Always helpful to be able to make a good drink!)

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is a lot of fun, even if you aren’t all that interested in coffee, there’s lots to enjoy. Plus over ten days there’s plenty of time to get a visit (and a drink) on your schedule!

You can check out more information at the Festival Website including ways to purchase the ticket button. Hopefully you get a chance to check out the Coffee Festival its a great time to be in Kona!

 

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The 2024 Ironman World Championship is in Kona this Weekend!

Ironman Kona Finish Line

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This Saturday October 26 is the 2024 Ironman World Championship in Kona!

This year Kona hosts the men. (They switch off yearly now- the women’s race is in Nice, France for 2024!)

You have to qualify for this race which is world famous as a ‘test of strength, resilience and endurance.’ Which it truly is! The race lasts all day and consists of a 2.4 mile swim in Kailua Bay to begin. This is followed by a swift 112 mile bike race and ends with a light 26.2 mile run! If you are interested in watching the opening of the race it’s suggested you snag a spot early. The race begins at 6:25 and, if you want a good spot, you may want to be there around 4:30 or so in the morning.

If you are out and about in Kona this weekend expect some delays and crowds. Please be mindful of traffic detours as well! Let’s keep everyone safe!

 

We wish all the competitors the very best of luck!

 

 

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What’s happening in Kona in August

Keep up on the monthly activities in the Kailua-Kona Area


Shakespeare in the Park in Hilo: Aug 2-4

Don’t miss the 47th Annual Shakespeare in the Park production THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (abridged) by The Hilo Community Players, “a hilarious and fast-paced romp through all of Shakespeare’s plays, written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield, and directed by Sarah Elliott.” All performances are free to the public.

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (abridged) is a farcical comedy that condenses 37 of the Bard’s plays into a whirlwind of laughter and fun. Audiences are invited to experience Shakespeare like never before, with a performance that combines wit, satire, and physical comedy. (hiloplayers.org)

Performance Schedule:

Honoka‘a Sports Complex
August 2-4, 2024
Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM
Sunday at 2:30 PM

 

National Park Free Fee Day: August 4

Honoring the Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
No entry fees to our national parks!

Annual Hana No’eau Hawaiian Arts Festival: Hilo Aug 10 and 11

The Annual Hana No’eau Hawaiian Arts Festival presented by Na Makua at Edith Kanaka’ole Tennis Stadium on August 10 and 11, 2024. This free event celebrates the continued growth and preservation of Hawaiian culture and arts, providing a platform for Hawai’i’s master artists and producers to exhibit their talents and share their knowledge. “Hana No’eau” translates to “art,” encompassing a broad spectrum of creative expressions, including visual, literary, and performing arts that bridge the past, present, and future. Attendees will enjoy the finest Hawaiian arts and crafts, cultural demonstrations, authentic Hawaiian entertainment, and delicious food. For more information about the event, visit namakua.com.

Pelekane Bay in Kawaihae

Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival  Pu’ukohola Heiau Nat’l Historic Site  Kawaihae: Aug 17-18

Join us on August 17 and 18, 2024, at the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site in Kawaihae for the Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival.
The festivities begin at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday with a hoʻokupu (gift giving) ceremony and will be followed by various workshops and demonstrations of traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts, including lauhala weaving, canoe rides, quilting, Hawaiian games, lei making, coconut frond weaving, kapa making, and bamboo nose flute playing. Enjoy live Hawaiian music throughout the event. Sunday’s activities start at 9:30 a.m., with both days concluding at 3:00 p.m.
This free event takes place at Pelekane Bay, below Puʻukoholā Heiau. Visitors are advised to follow parking signs near the park and prepare for dry and humid weather by wearing sunscreen and comfortable clothing, and bringing water, refreshments, and lunch. Sponsored by the National Park Service, Hawai’i Pacific Parks Association, and Nā Aikane o Puʻukoholā Heiau, this event is open to all. For more information visit www.nps.gov/puhe.

Friends of the Libraries Book Sale: Aug 23

Friends of the Libraries, Kona (FOLK) End-of-Summer Book Sale starts August 23rd from 11 am to 3 pm, and on August 24th from 9 am to midday. It’s a great time for the community to come together, find new reads, and support the local libraries.

Queen Lili’uokalani Outrigger Long-Distance Canoe Race: Aug 29-Sept 2

As August winds down, the anticipation builds for one of the most prestigious sporting events in the area – the Queen Lili’uokalani Outrigger Long-Distance Canoe Race. From August 31st to September 4th, the waters around Kailua-Kona will witness teams of paddlers competing in this grueling race. This event not only honors the legacy of Queen Lili’uokalani but also brings together participants and spectators in a celebration of endurance, skill, and camaraderie.

Ongoing Events

Kokua Kailua Village Stroll: August 18 

Once a month, on Alii Drive near the Pier, the street is closed for the Kokua Kailua Village Stroll. 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 cultur

e scene while enjoying the warm hospitality of the community.

Food Truck Fridays

Every Friday 4-8pm you’ll find a mini food truck festival with tastes to satisfy every palate. In the Target Kona parking lot you can feed the whole family with choices of BBQ, Mexican food, Thai food, desserts, and, of course, great coffee!

Link to blog page

 

Visit Queen’s Marketplace for more ongoing events 

Join ukulele lessons, Wednesday hula shows, and outdoor movies every month in the Coronation Pavilion.

Kanikapila Monthly Concert Series

Discover Hawai‘i Island’s best musical talents at Queens’ Marketplace’s Kanikapila Monthly Concert Series sponsored by KWXX, every third Saturday of the month. 

Every Third Saturday of the Month | 6 PM | Coronation Pavilion

 


More to come in September!

Kona Pride Festival: Sep 20-22

 

Join us for Kona Pride 2024 Sept 20-22. The festivities will kick off on Friday, September 20, with the KONA PRIDE KICKOFF SOCIAL from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Puna, offering an opportunity for attendees to gather and celebrate. On Saturday, September 21, the main festival will take place, featuring a variety of events designed to celebrate diversity and inclusion within the community. The celebrations will conclude on Sunday, September 22, with Poolooza, a fun-filled pool event to wrap up the weekend. This vibrant and inclusive series of events promises to be a highlight of the year for the LGBTQ+ community and its supporters.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out what we have available for your dates.

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Where are the fireworks in Kailua-Kona?

Where are the fireworks?

Here are some of the events happening on the Big Island in July including the 2024 Big Island 4th of July events.

Fireworks in Kailua Kona

Kailua-Kona

Parade at 6pm; Fireworks over Kailua Bay at 8pm.

Hilo

At 8 p.m fireworks will be set off from a barge in Hilo Bay. The musical accompaniment will be live from the Mo’oheau Park Bandstand starting at 7pm. The music will also be aired on KWXX.

Na’ahelu Independence Day Parade at Na’ahelu Park, Ka’u

11am. Enjoy the parade, Keiki Fun Day, and many other family friendly events. 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.

Parker Ranch Rodeo and Horse Races July 4

The 60th Annual Parker Ranch Rodeo and Horse Races are on July 4th at the Parker Ranch Arena in Waimea. Celebrate American Independence Day with traditional rodeo events and horse races, offering a unique Hawaiian twist on the Fourth of July festivities.

This is a day full of rodeo competitions such as bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and calf roping, along with exciting horse races. It’s a family-friendly event with food vendors, live music, and other entertainment options.

More events happening in July

Hilo Brewfest, July 13

Hilo Brewfest has become one of Hilo’s favorite festivals. From 2-5pm at the Hilo Yacht Club. Sample craft beers from around the country, and food from local chefs. Ticket sales, sponsorships and donations will benefit charites supported by the Rotary Club of Hilo. Visit hilobrewfest.com for more info and tickets.

Big Island Jazz and Blues Festival – July 13

At the 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 and tickets.

Experience Volcano Festival July 27 – 28

The Experience Volcano Festival is a celebration of the culture, people and traditions that make the diversity of the Volcano Area so unique. The Volcano Area is home to many activities and relaxing opportunities. Get a taste of everything that Volcano has to offer during this festival on July 27th & 28th 2024.   Enjoy artists in action, tours, demonstrations, kids and ohana activities, happy hours, restaurant specials, food trucks and much more!​ Most events are free to the public! Click for more details.

Ongoing Kailua-Kona Events

Kokua Kailua Village Stroll: July 21

Once a month, on Alii Drive near the Pier, the street is closed for the Kokua Kailua Village Stroll. 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.

Food Truck Fridays

Every Friday 4-8pm you’ll find a mini food truck festival with tastes to satisfy every palate. In the Target Kona parking lot you can feed the whole family with choices of BBQ, Mexican food, Thai food, desserts, and, of course, great coffee! Check here for more information about Food Truck Fridays

More to come in August!

August 4, 2024

National Parks Fee-Free Day!

In honor of the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, Get Outside!

No entry fees to our national parks!

August 13-24

20th IVF Va’a World Sprint Championship will be hosted by the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association in Hilo, HAwai’i from August 13th to August 24th, 2024

Looking for a place to stay? Check out what we have available for your dates.

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2024 IVF World Sprint Championship hosted in Hilo, Hawaii

The International Va’a Federation (IVF) World Sprint Championship will be hosted August 13-24, 2024 by the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association in Hilo, Hawaii. This event is a celebration of the sport of outrigger canoe racing, and brings together athletes, coaches, and fans from around the world. The championship is much more than just a competition; it is a cultural exchange, an opportunity for paddlers to showcase their skills and traditions, and an inspiration for the next generation of young paddlers.

Historical Significance and Cultural Heritage

The IVF World Sprint Championship has a rich history that traces its roots back to the ancient Polynesian voyagers, who navigated the Pacific Ocean in their va’a (outrigger canoes). These vessels were important for transportation, fishing, and exploration, and today, they symbolize the endurance, strength, and teamwork intrinsic to the paddling sport.

Hilo, with its deep cultural connections to the Polynesian heritage and its lush, tropical setting, is a fitting venue for this event. Participants and visitors will not only witness thrilling races but also engage with the host community’s unique traditions, including hula performances, traditional Hawaiian music, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds them.

People paddling outrigger canoe

Event Highlights

The 2024 edition of the IVF World Sprint Championship caters to different age groups and skill levels. Races include V1 (rudderless single outrigger canoe) and V6 (six-person outrigger canoe) categories, spanning various distances to test speed, endurance, and coordination among teams.

  • Opening Ceremony: The championship will kick off with a grand opening ceremony featuring a traditional Hawaiian welcome, cultural performances, and the parade of nations. This ceremony is a vibrant display of the diversity and unity within the international paddling community, setting the tone for the competitive days ahead.
  • Youth and Masters Divisions: Emphasizing the inclusivity of the sport, the championship will feature races for juniors and masters divisions. Youth racers symbolize the future of the sport, while masters competitors exemplify lifelong dedication and passion for paddling.
  • Elite Races: The elite races are the pinnacle of the event, where the world’s best paddlers compete for the coveted title of world champion. These races are all about high-speed action, strategic maneuvering, and the sheer determination of the athletes.
  • Cultural Exchange: Beyond the races, the championship serves as a platform for cultural exchange. Workshops, exhibitions, and social gatherings will allow participants to share their knowledge, techniques, and traditions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse paddling cultures around the world.

Environmental Stewardship

Recognizing the importance of preserving the natural environments that host these events, the IVF is committed to environmental stewardship. The 2024 IVF World Sprint Championship in Hilo will incorporate sustainable practices to minimize the event’s ecological footprint. Initiatives include beach clean-ups, waste reduction programs, and educational campaigns about the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems.

Community Involvement

The success of the IVF World Sprint Championship relies heavily on the support and involvement of the local community. Volunteers from Hilo and surrounding areas will play an integral role in organizing and executing the event. Their hospitality, warmth, and dedication ensure that participants and visitors feel welcomed and supported throughout their stay.

Local businesses and vendors will also have the opportunity to showcase their products and services, further enriching the cultural experience for attendees. From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to handcrafted souvenirs, the championship will provide a platform for local enterprises to thrive and share their heritage with a global audience.

Looking Ahead

For more detailed information on the event schedule, registration, and travel accommodations, please visit the official websites IVF World Sprint Championship 2024 and International Va’a Federation. These resources provide guides to help participants and visitors prepare for this landmark event in the paddling calendar.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out what we have available for your dates.

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Honoring a Legacy: The North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration

Every year the North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of aloha and the reverence for Hawaiian monarch Kamehameha I, commemorated annually on his birthday, June 11.

Nestled in the very birthplace of Kamehameha I, this celebration draws thousands of attendees from across the Hawaiian Islands and beyond, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, tradition, and community. As the sun rises over the tranquil landscape, the festivities unfurl, weaving together a full day of activities that pay homage to the revered king and his enduring legacy.

A Visionary Leader

At the heart of the celebration lies a deep sense of respect for Kamehameha I, the visionary leader who united the Hawaiian Islands under a single rule in the late 18th century. The day begins with a regal procession, a majestic display of Hawaiian culture and heritage, as participants adorned in traditional attire traverse the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the melodious chants of oli. This solemn yet joyous march sets the tone for the day ahead, symbolizing unity, strength, and the indomitable spirit of the Hawaiian people.

Annual Parade

Following the procession, the town of Kapa‘au comes alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of the annual parade. Floats adorned with fragrant flowers and intricate designs glide through the streets, each one a testament to the rich tapestry of Hawaiian history and culture. From traditional hula dancers swaying gracefully to the beat of drums to lively performances showcasing the art of poi pounding and lauhala weaving, the parade encapsulates the essence of Hawaiian identity, inviting spectators to immerse themselves in the beauty and rhythm of the islands.

Central to the festivities is the lei-draping ceremony held at the foot of Kapa‘au town’s Kamehameha I statue. Here, amidst a sea of fragrant blossoms and lei adorned with vibrant hues, attendees gather to pay their respects to the great king. With reverence and solemnity, each lei is delicately placed upon the statue, a symbol of love, honor, and remembrance for Kamehameha I and his profound contributions to Hawaiian society. This poignant ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the monarch, whose vision and leadership continue to inspire generations.

Educational Exhibits

In addition to the ceremonial proceedings, the celebration offers an array of interactive educational exhibits, providing attendees with the opportunity to delve deeper into Hawaiian history, culture, and traditions. From demonstrations of traditional crafts such as kapa making and fishnet weaving to informative displays highlighting the significance of ancient Hawaiian landmarks, these exhibits offer a window into the rich tapestry of Hawaiian heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for the land and its people.

Fun for Keiki

Beyond its cultural significance, the North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration serves as a beacon of community spirit and unity, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate a shared heritage and legacy. From the spirited chants of keiki to the wisdom of kupuna, the celebration embodies the spirit of aloha, fostering connections and forging bonds that transcend time and space.

As the sun sets on another day of celebration, the echoes of chants and laughter linger in the air, a testament to the enduring legacy of Kamehameha I and the vibrant spirit of the Hawaiian people. In the heart of North Kohala, amidst the lush beauty of the land, the annual Kamehameha Day Celebration stands as a living tribute to a king whose legacy continues to inspire and unite generations, ensuring that his memory remains forever etched in the fabric of Hawaiian culture and history.
For additional festival information click here.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out what we have available for your dates.

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The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park’s Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival

In the warm embrace of June, join us for the 63rd Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This two-day celebration stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the island’s native Hawaiian community, beckoning both locals and visitors alike to partake in a journey through time, honoring tradition, and perpetuating the rich tapestry of Hawaiian heritage.

Nestled on the western coast of Hawai’i Island, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, also known as the Place of Refuge, holds profound significance in Hawaiian history and culture. It served as a sanctuary for those seeking absolution and forgiveness for their transgressions under ancient Hawaiian law. Today, this sacred site serves as a beacon of cultural preservation, offering a glimpse into the traditions and customs of the past.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau

At the heart of the Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival lies a deep reverence for the values and traditions that have shaped Hawaiian society for generations. From the melodious chants of the hula to the intricate artistry of traditional crafts, every aspect of the festival reflects a commitment to honoring and preserving the essence of Hawaiian culture.

One of the festival’s highlights is the captivating display of hula, the quintessential dance form of Hawai’i. With graceful movements and evocative storytelling, hula dancers pay homage to the land, sea, and sky, weaving together elements of myth, history, and spirituality. Through their performances, they offer a glimpse into the soul of Hawai’i, where the natural world is revered as a source of inspiration and wisdom.

In addition to the hula performances, the festival offers hands-on workshops and demonstrations that allow attendees to engage directly with Hawaiian traditions. Enjoy canoe rides, a hukilau (fishnet pulling), lei-making, weaving, ʻohe kāpala (bamboo stamping), food tastings and more. These activities provide a unique opportunity to learn from skilled artisans and practitioners, gaining insight into the intricate craftsmanship that defines Hawaiian culture.

Central to the festival’s mission is the concept of aloha ʻāina, or love for the land. Hawaiians have long maintained a deep connection to the natural world, recognizing it as a source of sustenance, spirituality, and identity. Through educational programs and environmental initiatives, the festival seeks to instill a sense of stewardship for Hawai’i’s fragile ecosystems, inspiring future generations to safeguard the island’s precious resources.

At its core, the Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival serves as a bridge between the past and the present, uniting communities in a shared celebration of heritage and identity. For native Hawaiians, it offers an opportunity to reconnect with their roots, fostering a sense of pride and belonging in an ever-changing world. For visitors, it provides a window into a world steeped in tradition, inviting them to immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of Hawaiian culture.

The festival also serves as a catalyst for social and economic empowerment within the local community. By showcasing the talents of Hawaiian artisans, musicians, and performers, it creates opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds that unite Hawai’i’s diverse population. In the face of modernity and change, events like the Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival remind us of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Look for more information on the National Park Service Website. The Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is more than just a gathering; it is a celebration of identity, resilience, and community. Through its vibrant displays of dance, music, and craftsmanship, it honors the traditions of the past while inspiring future generations to carry the torch of Hawaiian culture forward.

 

Looking for a place to stay? Check out what we have available for your dates.

 

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Exploring the Big Island Chocolate Festival

The annual Big Island Chocolate Festival, happening on April 26-27, 2024, is like a siren call for chocolate lovers near and far! It’s a time when cocoa enthusiasts from all walks of life come together to revel in the sheer deliciousness of chocolate. Skilled chocolatiers and culinary wizards all under one roof, ready to whisk you away on a cocoa-infused adventure. There are a variety of ticket types depending on your budget and what you want from the festival.

A Chocolate Lover’s Paradise

At the heart of the Big Island Chocolate Festival lies a treasure trove of decadent delights waiting to be explored. Imagine sinking your teeth into velvety truffles, savoring silky smooth ganaches, and discovering innovative chocolate-infused dishes and beverages that will tantalize your taste buds like never before. Get ready to sample a diverse selection of chocolates from different regions and producers, each with its own unique flavors and characteristics. 

Pro tip: if someone offers you fresh cacao seeds to try, don’t hesitate—say yes! The pulp surrounding the seed is a delightful surprise.

cocoa pods hanging on a cocoa tree

Culinary Creations

Prepare to be amazed by the creative genius of local chefs who skillfully incorporate chocolate into their culinary masterpieces. From savory dishes with a hint of cocoa to decadent desserts that will make your taste buds sing, every bite is a testament to the versatility of chocolate in the kitchen. Plus, you can join culinary demonstrations and workshops to learn insider tips and tricks from the pros.

Chocolate-Making Workshops

Feeling adventurous? Roll up your sleeves and dive into chocolate-making workshops led by skilled chocolatiers. Learn the secrets of tempering chocolate, molding truffles, and crafting your very own chocolate treats. It’s a hands-on experience that offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the fascinating world of chocolate production.

Beyond the Chocolate

But the Big Island Chocolate Festival is more than just a celebration of chocolate—it’s a platform for education and inspiration. Explore important topics like sustainable cacao farming, environmental conservation, and the cultural significance of chocolate in Hawaiian history and culture through informative presentations, panel discussions, and interactive exhibits.

Sustainable Cacao Farming

Join us in promoting sustainable cacao farming practices that benefit both the environment and the local community. Learn about ethical sourcing, fair trade practices, and organic farming methods that ensure the long-term viability of the cacao industry. Together, we can help preserve the delicate ecosystems that sustain this vital crop.

Environmental Conservation

Raise awareness about the environmental challenges facing the cacao industry, from deforestation to climate change. Discover how initiatives like reforestation projects and carbon offset programs are making a difference and how you can contribute to a more sustainable future for chocolate cultivation.

Cultural Significance

Celebrate the cultural heritage of chocolate in Hawaii through educational exhibits, storytelling sessions, and traditional chocolate-making demonstrations. Gain a deeper appreciation for the rich flavors and traditions that define the island’s culinary identity and savor every moment of this deliciously enlightening experience.

So mark your calendars and get ready to embark on the ultimate chocolate adventure at the Big Island Chocolate Festival. It’s an event not to be missed for chocolate lovers of all ages! 

FAQs

Q: Can I purchase tickets in advance?

A: Yes, tickets for the Big Island Chocolate Festival are typically available for purchase online in advance of the event. Early booking is recommended, as tickets often sell out quickly.
Get tickets for the festival here

Q: Are there accommodations available for out-of-town attendees?

A: Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options available for attendees traveling from out of town, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

Check out what we have available for your dates.

In a Nutshell

The Big Island Chocolate Festival is a tantalizing celebration of all things chocolate, bringing together cacao farmers, chocolatiers, chefs, and chocolate enthusiasts for a truly indulgent experience. From exquisite tastings to hands-on workshops, this festival offers something for everyone to enjoy while promoting sustainable farming practices and celebrating the cultural heritage of chocolate in Hawaii. So, whether you’re a seasoned chocolate connoisseur or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, come join us at the Big Island Chocolate Festival, April 26-27, and experience the magic of chocolate like never before!

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