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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.

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.

June 27, 2024/by Jennifer Conway

Events in Kailua-Kona

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.

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.

June 25, 2024/by Jennifer Conway

Events in Kailua-Kona

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.

May 14, 2024/by Jennifer Conway

Events in Kailua-Kona, Local Area, Things to do in Kona

What’s Happening in Kona in April?

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

Kona Steel Guitar Festival – April 4-6, 2024

The Kona Steel Guitar Festival takes place at the picturesque Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in Keauhou, nestled on the Big Island of Hawaii. This vibrant event pays homage to the storied legacy of Hawaiian steel guitar music, offering three days filled with captivating performances by both local talents and acclaimed international artists. From timeless Hawaiian tunes to the vibrant rhythms of jazz and country melodies, the festival showcases the versatility of these distinctive sliding guitars.
For more information check here.

Lavaman Triathlon: April 7th

Sign up now for Lavaman Olympic Distance Triathlon April 7th at Waikoloa Beach resort. Click here for more information and for registration!

2024 Outrigger Big West Men’s Volleyball Championship: April 18-20

The 2024 Outrigger Big West Men’s Volleyball Championship will feature all six Big West squads on the campus of defending champion Hawai’i.

NATIONAL PARK FEE-FREE DAY – April 20

1st DAY OF National Park Week. No entry fees to our national parks!

Big Island Chocolate Festival

The annual Big Island Chocolate Festival, on April 26-27, 2024, draws chocolate fans from far and wide to celebrate the delectable world of cocoa. Showcasing the island’s vibrant cacao industry, talented chocolatiers, and culinary experts, this festival is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth and a passion for all things chocolate. Take a look at this article about the Chocolate Festival for more information.

Ongoing Events

Kokua Kailua Village Stroll: April 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.