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Ziggy Marley will play Oahu’s Kokua Festival on Earth Day weekend.// (C) 2010 Bruce Tuten |
Spotlight: Oahu
April 23-24: Kokua Festival. The Kokua Festival is back for Earth Day weekend. The line-up features Hawaii’s own Jack Johnson, Ziggy Marley, Taj Mahal, ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro and Maui-based singer Anuhea. There will also be more than 50 booths of eco-friendly products and local foods, as well as arts and crafts for kids. All proceeds go to the Kokua Hawaii Foundation to support school recycling, field trips and farm-to-school programs. Waikiki Shell, Honolulu. (www.kokuafestival.com)
Big Island
April 4-10: Merrie Monarch Festival. Watch and learn at one of Hawaii’s most prestigious hula competitions, featuring group and solo contests. Tickets go fast, but the festival also has free events such as live music and a parade through town. Edith Kanakaole Stadium, Hilo. (808-935-9168; www.merriemonarchfestival.org)
April 17: Kona Chocolate Festival. Chefs, chocolatiers, culinary students and candy makers are eager to showcase their creative talents at this delectable event. Clients can sign up for tours and workshops offered by the Chocolate Symposium or attend the Benefit Gala to support culinary education. Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa, Kona. (808-987-8722; www.konachocolatefestival.com)
Oahu
April 16-22: Spring Showcase. The Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) is holding its 13th Spring Showcase, a smaller, more intimate festival than the Fall Showcase. Roughly 30 independent and international films will be shown. Tickets go on sale on April 7. Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18, Honolulu. (808-697-2463; www.hiff.org)
April 18: Honolulu AIDS Walk. Make a difference in the fight against AIDS in Hawaii with an easy 5K walk. Prizes, food, entertainment and a kids’ zone make this an ideal event for families with children. Registration is free but fundraising is encouraged. Kapiolani Park. (808-521-2437; www.honoluluaidswalk.org)
April 23-25: Spring Food and New Products Show. Clients looking for a unique shopping experience among hundreds of vendors need not look any further than this highly attended expo. Some attractions include local fare, new products and gadgets and chances to win prizes. Admission is $3 (free for children under 12). Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, Honolulu. (808-732-6037; www.pacificexpos.com)
Kauai
April 2 and 4: Slack-Key Guitar Concerts. Every Friday and Sunday afternoon, visitors can tune into to the soothing sounds of Hawaii’s slack-key music while learning about its history and legendary players. The proceeds from the shows support outreach programs for families in the area. Hanalei Community Center. (808-826-1469; www.hawaiianslackkeyguitar.com)
April 11: Kauai All-Girls Rodeo. The ladies in Hawaii are good at far more than just hula dancing and surfing. Watch cowgirls compete in fast-paced rodeo events, from barrel racing to goat tying. CJM Country Stables Arena, Koloa. (808-346-3549; www.kauaiallgirlsrodeo.com)
Maui
April 2-4: Celebration of the Arts. Held during Easter weekend, this hands-on arts festival is a unique opportunity for clients. Highlights include seminar discussions, workshops in arts and crafts, hula performances and a closing luau ceremony. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. (808-669-6200; www.celebrationofthearts.org)
April 24: East Maui Taro Festival. Celebrate the staple food of Hawaii at the 18th-annual presentation of this all-day festival with local music, arts, crafts and cultural demonstrations. Whether it’s sampling from more than 20 food booths or learning to pound your own poi, the Taro Festival is a highlight for visitors and locals alike. Hana Ballpark. (808-264-1553; www.tarofestival.org)
