Hawaii Island’s landscape wears many colors, from green and black beaches to red and orange lava flows. Its activities are equally varied, with pastimes appealing to a range of travelers, including adventurers, foodies and history buffs.
With such a widespread appeal, Hawaii Island offers something for just about everybody this summer during the following events.
Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, June 26 to July 24
A tinkling piano bar, operatic arias, chamber ensembles and Broadway melodies are some of the tuneful highlights of this monthlong music festival. Talented performers from around the world converge on Hawaii Island to present concerts and stage productions, a few of which are free. Clients can attend shows at island venues from Hilo and Honokaa to Waimea and along the Kohala Coast.
www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Cultural Festival & BioBlitz, July 1
Island heritage and science take center stage for a day in the compelling setting of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Clients can enjoy live hula and music, and they can try their hand at local crafts alongside skilled practitioners. On the same day, visitors can experience the beauty of biodiversity as they discover the park’s unique plants and animals. Interactive exhibits help everyone learn about conservation in an upbeat fashion.
www.nps.gov
Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT), Aug. 4-12
A tradition since 1959, this splashy contest exudes a party atmosphere, so visitors can savor it as much as the participating anglers. Each day, hundreds of spectators gather at Kailua Pier for the impressive weigh-ins of massive marlins. They can shop at the HIBT retail boutique, see dancers and drummers at the opening ceremonies and maybe even get a photo taken with Miss Billfish.
www.hibtfishing.com
Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival, Aug. 18
No drink says Hawaii like a mai tai, a tropical elixir of rum and fruit juices. At Royal Kona Resort’s annual event, clients can cheer for bartenders from near and far who compete to concoct the tastiest version of the classic cocktail. Attendees also can sample and vote for Hawaii’s best barbecue, buy island-made food and crafts and mingle around the pool as local performers play live music.
www.donsmaitaifest.com
Each summer at Royal Kona Resort, cocktail masters compete to create the world’s best mai tai.
Credit: 2018 Hawaiian Hotels & ResortsVolcano Rain Forest Runs, Aug. 18
Lava landscapes and shimmering rainforests create a dramatic backdrop for this trio of foot races in mellow Volcano Village near the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether clients tackle the half marathon, the 10K or the 5K route, they can feel the power of their surroundings at the 4,000-foot elevation, with views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes to motivate them. Runs for kids add to the fun.
volcanorainforestruns.com
