Planning your next vacation to Hawaii's Big Island? One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by attending one of the many events that take place throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there's always something happening on the island. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Big Island calendar of events for 2023.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
Planning your next vacation to Hawaii's Big Island? One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by attending one of the many events that take place throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there's always something happening on the island. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Big Island calendar of events for 2023.
January
In January, the Big Island celebrates the start of the new year with a variety of events. One of the most popular is the Waimea Ocean Film Festival, which takes place over several days at various locations throughout the island. The festival features films, workshops, and presentations on ocean-related topics.
Q: Can I buy tickets for the Waimea Ocean Film Festival online?
A: Yes, tickets for the festival can be purchased online through the festival's website.
February
In February, the Big Island celebrates Chinese New Year with a variety of events, including lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and fireworks displays. One of the most popular events is the Chinese New Year Festival in Hilo, which features food, crafts, and live entertainment.
Q: Is the Chinese New Year Festival in Hilo free to attend?
A: Yes, the festival is free to attend, although some activities may require a fee.
March
In March, the Big Island celebrates the annual Kona Brewers Festival, which features craft beers from around the world, live music, and local food vendors. The festival is held at the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Kona Brewers Festival?
A: No, outside food and drinks are not allowed at the festival.
April
In April, the Big Island celebrates the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which is one of the most prestigious hula competitions in the world. The festival takes place in Hilo and features hula performances, craft fairs, and a parade.
Q: Do I need to buy tickets for the Merrie Monarch Festival?
A: Yes, tickets for the festival can be purchased online or at the festival box office.
May
In May, the Big Island celebrates Lei Day, which is a statewide celebration of Hawaiian culture. The festival takes place in Hilo and features lei-making contests, hula performances, and local food vendors.
Q: Can I participate in the lei-making contests at Lei Day?
A: Yes, anyone can participate in the lei-making contests, but you must register in advance.
June
In June, the Big Island celebrates the annual Kamehameha Day Festival, which honors King Kamehameha I, the first king of Hawaii. The festival takes place in Kailua-Kona and features a parade, live music, and local food vendors.
Q: Is the Kamehameha Day Festival only for locals?
A: No, the festival is open to everyone and is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture.
July
In July, the Big Island celebrates Independence Day with a variety of events, including fireworks displays, parades, and live music. One of the most popular events is the Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza in Hilo, which features a fireworks display over Hilo Bay.
Q: Can I bring my own fireworks to the Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza?
A: No, personal fireworks are not allowed at the event.
August
In August, the Big Island celebrates the annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, which features culinary events and tastings from some of the world's best chefs and winemakers. The festival takes place at various locations throughout the island.
Q: Can I buy tickets for the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival at the event?
A: No, tickets for the festival must be purchased in advance online or through the festival's box office.
September
In September, the Big Island celebrates the annual Ironman World Championship, which is one of the most prestigious triathlon events in the world. The race takes place in Kailua-Kona and attracts athletes from around the globe.
Q: Can I participate in the Ironman World Championship?
A: No, the Ironman World Championship is an invitation-only event for professional triathletes.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Big Island calendar of events for 2023 is packed with a variety of cultural celebrations, food festivals, and sporting events. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something new to experience on the island. So start planning your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
