Spotlight: Maui
Aug. 30-31: Kaanapali Fresh. Now in its second year, this weekend event showcases Kaanapali Resort as a stellar setting for cuisine, culture and activities. Participants can sample chefs’ menus, learn about Maui-grown products, play on the beach, listen to live music and learn about the rich history of the area. www.kaanapalifresh.com
Hawaii Island
Aug. 3-10: Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. Serious anglers from around the world head to Hawaii for this prestigious deep-sea fishing contest. Each afternoon the crews return to the docks with their hefty catches in hopes of winning prizes. Visitors cheer for the exciting weigh-ins at Kailua Pier. www.hibtfishing.com
Kauai
Aug. 3-4: Heiva I Kauai. This annual Tahitian dance competition features groups from Hawaii, the U.S. and Japan who present solo and group performances and drumming. Clients can marvel at authentic Tahitian footwork, peruse Polynesian arts and crafts, sample local foods and more. Kapaa Beach Park. www.heivaikauai.com
Aug. 9 and 11: Slack-Key Guitar Concerts. Loosely tuned strings create a uniquely Hawaiian sound in this island style of guitar playing. Every Friday and Sunday afternoon, visitors can hear it firsthand at casual concerts in north Kauai, with proceeds supporting outreach programs for families in the area. Hanalei Community Center. www.mcmasterslackkey.com
Maui
Aug. 9: Maui is Calling. In an outdoor amphitheater, under swaying coconut palms, guests of this Maui Arts and Cultural Center fundraiser enjoy tasty dishes crafted by island chefs and wines from around the U.S. There’s a performance by a surprise musical guest, and clients can bid on hundreds of items during silent and live auctions. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului. www.mauiarts.org
Oahu
Aug. 16-18: Made in Hawaii Festival. Here’s a great place to buy the ultimate island souvenir. Hawaii products — from food to flowers, apparel to art and pottery to produce — are spread out across 400 booths. Clients can listen to live Hawaiian music and watch cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Neal Blaisdell Center, Honolulu. www.madeinhawaiifestival.com
Aug. 17-25: Duke’s Ocean Fest. This summer festival takes place each year in honor of Duke Kahanamoku, a treasured Hawaiian waterman, Olympic gold medal swimmer, surfer, canoe steersman and Hollywood actor. Activities include contests in sand soccer, surfing, beach volleyball, paddleboarding and swim-run-paddle. www.dukesoceanfest.com
