Spotlight: Oahu
Sept. 29: Honolulu Century Ride. A pedal party since 1981, Hawaii’s largest cycling event draws thousands of riders from Hawaii and Japan. Participants of all ages and abilities saddle up for 20-, 25-, 50-, 75- or 100-mile routes, starting and ending at the scenic Kapiolani Park. www.hbl.org
Hawaii Island
Aug. 31-Sept. 1: Parker Ranch Round-Up Rodeo and Horse Races. Hooves are flying at this annual event in paniolo (cowboy) country. Now in its 35th year, the jamboree features two afternoons of rodeo fare, including team roping, double mugging, bull riding, bronco busting and steer undecorating. Waimea. www.parkerranch.com
Aug. 31-Sept. 27: Hawaii Island Festival. This month-long celebration of aloha at various venues includes a poke (seasoned raw fish) contest, island-style falsetto singing, appearances by the royal court, a paniolo parade and lively hoolaulea (outdoor party). A festival ribbon costs $5 per person. www.hawaiiislandfestival.org
Kauai
Sept. 6 and 8: 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 concerts in North Kauai, with proceeds supporting programs for local families. Hanalei Community Center. www.mcmasterslackkey.com
Sept. 22-28: Kauai Mokihana Festival. Kauai’s heritage is celebrated through local and ethnic demonstrations, concerts, exhibitions, food, storytelling and arts and crafts displays around the island. Highlights include a Kauai composers contest and hula competition for men and women. www.maliefoundation.org
Maui
Sept. 1: Malama Maui. Part of the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, this under-the-stars soiree serves a tasty array of food and wine. Maui and U.S. mainland chefs take clients on a culinary tour highlighting island-grown products. The fest continues on Oahu from Sept. 5-9. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. www.hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com
Sept. 22: Maui Marathon. One of the most scenic marathons in the U.S., this point-to-point race begins in Kahului and ends in Kaanapali. Along the way, participants get ocean views from seaside highways, sometimes just 50 feet from the shore. A health and fitness expo and carbo luau lead up to the event. www.mauimarathonhawaii.com
Oahu
Sept. 2: Waikiki Roughwater Swim. Held annually, this splashy event brings out swimmers of all strokes who gather at Sans Souci Beach for the 8:30 a.m. start. The beautiful 2.4-mile ocean course ends at the beach fronting Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Rainbow Tower. www.waikikiroughwaterswim.com
Sept. 28: Aloha Festivals Floral Parade. Thousands of people share their aloha as they march through Honolulu in Hawaii’s most famous parade. The procession includes pau riders (women on flower-studded horses), floats, hula troupes and marching bands. The free spectacle begins at Ala Moana Park and ends in Waikiki. www.alohafestivals.com
