Big Island events are a constant occurrence! The island is teeming with activities, and festivals designed for locals and visitors alike. From hula classes to guided tours, concerts, and luaus, there’s always something happening for those who seek it out. Hawaii Island is well known for our rich cultural, oceanic, and agricultural background and many of the festivals and events are centered around this heritage. With food and farm tours offering up a taste coffee, macadamia nuts, cacao, local beef, and the myriad of fruits and veggies that grow across the island, it’s no surprise that many Big Island events have a food theme.
We’re also well know for our sporting and water based events with everything from surfing competitions, outrigger canoe races, and the World’s Ironman Championship, there’s never a dull moment. For those with a sporting predilection, Kona hosts the the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, the Rock N Reel Hawaiian Open Fishing Tournament and the Annual Huggo’s Wahine Fishing Tournament.
Since Hawaii Island was home to most of the Royalty of Hawaii, the cultural history here runs deep and the celebration of that connection results in several Big Island events that shouldn’t be missed. The history of hula is as intriguing as the dances are beautiful. You can explore the world of hula during the annual Merrie Monarch Festival or get a taste of the incredible dance at many local luaus, festivals and events.
Some of the big favorites include:
– The Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii (October)
– The Kona Coffee Festival (a 10 day festival around November)
– The Merrie Monarch Festival (a week-long celebration during the week of Easter)
keep exploring
Held on a monthly basis, Kokua Kailua is a leisurely art stroll through the streets of historic Kailua Village that brings together artisans and craftspeople throughout the Big Island.
The Ironman World Championship is the ultimate physical and mental test of strength, resilience, and endurance in the world.
Attention Mai Tai lovers, the Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival in Kona is a fun annual event featuring a mai tai mix-off contest, BBQ cook-off, and live music pool party.
A celebration of beer, food, and Hawaiian culture, the Rotary Club of Hilo’s annual Hilo Brewfest is an afternoon of fun, beer, and music.
The 2019 Ironman World Championship was one for the record books!
The western side of the Big Island is home to Kona Brewing Company and that success has spurred one of the best brew festivals in Hawaii.
Visiting Hilo during the annual Merrie Monarch Festival is a wonderful opportunity to explore and enjoy traditional Hawaiian hula, arts and crafts, music, and fun local events.
Attend the world famous Kona Coffee Festival for one of the most enlightening and delicious experiences you can undertake on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Attention bird lovers, the Hawaii Island Festival of Birds is a fun event featuring a film festival, hands on activities, expert speakers and guided birding excursions.
Coffee grown in the Ka’u district of the Big Island of Hawaii has won multiple international and Hawaiian awards for quality and taste.
An annual event gathering filmmakers, speakers, exhibits, and incredible films, the Waimea Ocean Film Festival provides a unique, Hawaiian film experience to moviegoers.
The Big Island is a major hub for island-grown art and culture, and these events make for the perfect Friday evening outing for those who appreciate it.
Big Island Guide goes hands-on at the 2018 Waimea Ocean Film Festival to bring you closer to the films and events that shaped this year’s impressive festival.
The 2018 Ironman World Championship was one for the record books, with five course records being broken.
The 2017 Ironman World Championship in Kona was an incredible event and one for the record books with stunning performances from the worlds top athletes.
Hawaii’s unique environment and climate make it an ideal location for many types of scientific research, including the recent NASA Mars Experiment.
