Hawaii’s Big Island
Oct. 3: Kohala Country Fair. Jam-making and Spam-carving add character to this 25th annual event. Merchandise and food booths, live performance stages, rides, games, children’s activities and a silent auction are spread out under the landmark banyan tree in downtown Hawi. Look for it at the corner of Akoni Pule Highway and Hawi Road in North Kohala. 808-889-5324
Oct. 5: Niaulani Nature Walk. This free, easy one-hour tour makes a loop through a lush portion of an old-growth Hawaiian rain forest. The walk introduces clients to the native plants and birds of the area and focuses on biological, ecological, geological and cultural highlights. Meet at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village (corner of Kalanikoa and Old Volcano roads). 808-967-8222
Oct. 22: Dervish. Having established itself as the pre-eminent Irish traditional ensemble, Dervish has performed in every corner of the globe. Dubbed “the best band in Ireland” by Michael Flatley, it offers a repertoire of high-energy tunes, ballads about life and love and inspiring melodies that result in standing ovations. Kahilu Theatre, Waimea. 808-885-6868
Kauai
Oct. 1-3: Hawaiiana and Malama Ola Festivals. These simultaneous events perpetuate native Hawaiian cultural values through a variety of activities and demonstrations. Workshops range from meditation, self-defense, yoga and martial arts to massage, breathing, acupuncture and spiritual healing. Entertainment, crafts and a luau enliven the festivities. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, Poipu. 808-742-1234
Oct. 10: Queen Emma Festival. In 1871, Hawaii’s Queen Emma blazed trails when she and her entourage embarked on a spontaneous journey by foot through the upland forests of Kauai. Today, this annual tribute to her leadership and adventurous nature features live Hawaiian music, hula, crafts and exhibits. Kokee State Park. 808-335-9975
Maui County
Oct. 1-4: Maui County Fair. Going strong in its 87th year, this is the oldest fair in Hawaii. Crowds gather for rides, games, exhibits and entertainment, a huge floral display, a livestock tent with paniolo (cowboy) tunes, an arts and crafts tent and a food court with island specialties. War Memorial Complex, Wailuku. 808-242-2721
Oct. 2-3: Hookupu Hula No Lanai Festival. Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island presents a big festival of Hawaiian culture and the arts. Clients on Lanai can take part in free workshops on hula, chant and lei-making, watch cultural demonstrations, attend “talk story” sessions, hear live music and see hula performed by local and international troupes. Dole Park and Four Seasons Resort, Lanai at Manele Bay. 808-258-7467
Oct. 4: Festival of Aloha on Molokai. Celebrating all things Hawaiian, this event lures clients with demonstrations of ancient games, a fishing tournament, a colorful parade, dancing, local foods and an aloha shirt contest, not to mention the crowning of Molokai’s Royal Court. Festivities take place at the Mitchell Pauole Center in Kaunakakai. 808-244-3530
Oahu
Oct. 2: First Fridays. Locals love to usher in the weekend by heading downtown. From 5-9 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, clients can browse art galleries that stay open late and feature works by talented Hawaiian artists. Hip eateries cater to the evening crowds and after dark, free entertainment ranges from belly dancers to string quartets. Chinatown, Honolulu. 808-739-9797
Oct. 11: Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival. Held on the waterfront, this event lets clients sample and purchase fresh Hawaiian seafood products from popular local fish markets and restaurants while learning about ancient and modern fishing methods. They can also try long-casting or fly-casting at the demonstration area, tour the local fish auction and enter free drawings for prizes. Pier 38, Honolulu. 808-265-4962
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The Hawaii International Film Festival will take place in October in Honolulu. // © 2009 Hawaii International Film Festival |
Oct. 15-25: Hawaii International Film Festival. In addition to a full slate of feature films from Asia, the Pacific Rim and North America, clients can attend seminars, workshops, award presentations and receptions with celebrities, filmmakers and industry professionals. This year marks the festival’s 29th anniversary. Dole Stadium Cinema, Honolulu. 808-528-3456
