Feb. 10-April 19: NEO RAUCH WORKS 1994-2000: THE LEIPZIGER
VOLKSZEITUNG COLLECTION (Oahu).
An exhibition of artworks by one of Europe's most famous
contemporary artists. Rauch has been called the coolest name in art
and is known for his monumental paintings and drawings that critics
say are a contemporary echo of American Pop or Soviet posters.
Honolulu Academy of Arts (808) 532-8700
Feb. 12: CHINESE NEW YEAR IN LAHAINA
(Maui).
The town welcomes the Lunar New Year with colorful lion dances,
Chinese martial arts demonstrations, firecrackers, traditional
drums, gongs and cymbals, and booths with ethnic food, crafts,
calligraphy and massage. 888-310-1117
Feb. 22: CYRIL PAHINUI (Maui).
The award-winning slack-key guitarist appears with host George
Kahumoku, Jr., to perform traditional Hawaiian songs and share
authentic "talk-stories." Indoor Amphitheatre, Ritz-Carlton,
Kapalua. 888-669-3858
Feb. 24-March 12: MISS SAIGON (Oahu).
Inspired by "Madame Butterfly" and transferred to a modern setting,
this revolutionary musical that earned high praise in London, on
Broadway and around the globe. Richardson Theatre, Fort Shafter.
808-438-4480
Feb. 24- March 27: EDDIE WOULD GO/QUEEN OF MAKAHA: RELL
SUN (Oahu)
The Honolulu Theatre for Youth presents the stories of two Hawaiian
surfers and role models, Eddie Aikau and Rell Sunn. Kumu Kahua
Theatre. Downtown Honolulu. 808-839-9885
Feb. 25-March 3: TURANDOT (Oahu).
During Hawaii Opera Theatre's thrilling production, discover why
Puccini's final work is regarded as the pinnacle of his career.
Neal Blaisdell Concert Hall, Honolulu. 808-596-7858
March 2: THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN BAND (Oahu).
Established by King Kamehameha III in 1836, the band remains a
symbol of Hawaii's rich monarchial past. Enjoy great Hawaiian music
during a free concert featuring singers and hula dancers. Royal
Hawaiian Shopping Center, Waikiki. 808-922-2299
March 9-27: CABARET (Oahu).
In this Broadway musical, a female entertainer in Weimar
Republic-era Berlin romances two men while the Nazi Party rises to
power around them. Manoa Valley Theatre, Honolulu. 808-988-6131
March 11-13: HONOLULU FESTIVAL (Oahu).
Promoting cultural understanding, economic cooperation and ethnic
harmony between the people of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region.
Various locations. 808-596-3327
March 12: KONA BREWERS FESTIVAL (Big
Island).
Hawaii and mainland breweries serve 60 types of beer and chefs
prepare culinary creations, with live music, hula and fire dancers
rounding out the day. Luau grounds, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach
Hotel. 808-334-2739
March 12-13 :OCEAN ARTS FEST IN LAHAINA
(Maui).
Lahaina celebrates Humpback Whales with a marine arts event at
Banyan Tree. Local artists display their ocean and marine-life
themed art for sale, Hawaiian musicians and hula troupes entertain,
and kids have fun with art activities, games and a touch pool.
Lahaina Visitor Center. 888-310-1117
March 12-Sept. 5: E KU MAU MAU, E KU
EVERLASTING
(Oahu). An exhibit of the many aspects of Ku, the Hawaiian god of
war, as told through museum collections and the pieces of invited
contemporary artists. Bishop Museum, Honolulu. 808-847-3511
March 13: PARKER RANCH CENTER KUPUNA (SENIORS) FESTIVAL
(Big Island).
Enjoy interactive family activities, entertainment, games and craft
demonstrations that salute the older generation. Parker Ranch
Center, Waimea. 808-885-7178.
March 19: NA MEA HAWAII HULA KAHIKO (Big
Island).
See traditional hula and chant performed outdoors on the hula
platform overlooking Kilauea Crater, with Hawaiian crafts
demonstrations at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park. 808-967-8222
March 26: PRINCE KUHIO CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS
(Kauai).
Festivities celebrate the birthday of one of Hawaii's most beloved
monarchs. Commemorative ceremonies at his birthplace are followed
by demonstrations, lectures, entertainment and a luau. Hyatt
Regency Kauai Resort & Spa. 808-240-6369
March 27-April 2: MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL (Big
Island).
A week-long festival of cultural events including Hawaii's most
prestigious hula competition, starting with an outdoor party and
ending with a parade through town. Edith Kanakaole Stadium, Hilo.
808-935-9168
April 1: SWINGTIME IN HAWAII (Oahu).
Hawaii International Jazz Festival's signature event highlights
music during Hawaii's Territorial years and features local jazz
greats alongside Grammy-nominated pianist Jessica Williams. Hyatt
Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa. 808-941-9974
April 12: BEAUX ARTS TRIO (Big Island).
This legendary ensemble has a well-established tradition of superb
artistry, exacting musicianship and a complete classical portfolio
that has made them a hallmark in chamber music. Kahilu Theatre,
Waimea. 808-885-6868
April 15-16: INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS (Big Island).
Students from diverse backgrounds share a taste of their
cultures with costumes, dances and music from around the world.
University of Hawaii at Hilo Theater. 808-974-7310
April 28-May 8: HAWAII QUILT GUILD ANNUAL EXHIBTION
(Oahu).
Featuring the best new quilts by contemporary Hawaiian
quilters, this popular exhibition is the biggest of its kind in
Hawaii. Art Center, Honolulu Academy of Arts. 808-532-8700
May 1: MAY DAY FESTIVALS (statewide).
Celebrated since 1927, this annual tradition perpetuating
the custom of giving and receiving flowers includes lei-making
contests, hula competitions, a king and queen and their royal
court. On Oahu, there's an evening of Hawaiian song and dance under
the stars at the Waikiki Shell. 808-692-5118.
May 12-14: 13TH ANNUAL WORLD FIREKNIFE DANCE
CHAMPIONSHIPS (Oahu).
A North Shore town lights up during this annual test of
fire-spinning champions from around the world, vying for the title
of world's best. Polynesian Cultural Center, Laie. 800-367-7060
May 12-28: THE SECRET GARDEN (Oahu).
Bring the family to the musical version of the enchanting
children's classic, presented by the Army Community Theatre.
Richardson Theatre, Fort Shafter. 808-438-4480
May 14-29: INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CANOES (Maui).
Master Carvers from across the Pacific create canoes from
wood logs. Other festivities include cultural arts demonstrations,
a parade down Front St. followed by a seaside Hawaiian music
concert, and a launch of the completed canoes. Lahaina.
888-310-1117
May 19-21: MOLOKAI KA HULA PIKO (Molokai).
This celebration of the birth of the hula includes a
variety of entertainment, food, arts and crafts, lectures and
excursions to sacred sites. Papohaku Beach Park. 808-553-3876
May 26-29: POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL (Kauai).
Starting with a pageant and dinner at the Radisson Kauai
Beach Resort at 6 p.m., the festival continues at the Kukui Grove
Pavilion with entertainment, crafts, seminars, dance competitions
and food. 808-335-6466
May 26-29: KAUAI MUSIC FESTIVAL (Kauai).
Top songwriters network with producers and publishers in
forums, workshops, panel discussions and concerts. Hyatt Regency
Kauai, with concerts at Kauai Community College Performing Arts
Center. 808-634-6237
June 10-12: PAN-PACIFIC FESTIVAL-MATSURI IN HAWAII
(Oahu).
This annual event is a cross-cultural exchange between
the people of Hawaii, Japan, Mainland USA and other Pan-Pacific
regions, with activities and concerts for all ages.
808-926-8177
June 11: KING KAMEHAMEHA CELEBRATION FLORAL PARADE
(Oahu).
Colorful floats, marching bands and glamorous horseback
riders decked out in flowers traverse the streets of Honolulu,
ending at Kapiolani Park in Waikiki. 808-586-0333
June 15: FLAVORS OF THE REEF (Oahu).
An annual celebration highlighting Hawaii's multi-ethnic
cultures. Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Waikiki. 800-688-7444
June 15-19: MAUI FILM FESTIVAL (Maui).
In its sixth year, this high-profile cinematic event
showcases a variety of films, some for the first time ever.
Celebrity appearances, Hawaiian music and an enormous outdoor movie
screen add to the fun. Wailea Resort. 808-579-9996
June 23-26: DOLPHIN DAYS (Big Island).
The weekend features a charity golf tournament, luau,
silent auction, dolphin-watching programs and the Great Waikoloa
Food, Wine and Music Festival, all to raise funds for Hawaii
Shriner's Hospital for Children and the Pacific Marine Life
Foundation. Hilton Waikoloa Village. 800-HILTONS
June 24-25: KING KAMEHAMEHA HULA COMPETITION (Oahu).
An international cultural event which features 500
dancers from the continental U.S., Hawaii and Japan competing in
traditional and contemporary hula styles. Neal Blaisdell Center,
Honolulu. 808-536-6540
June 24-26: TASTE OF HONOLULU (Oahu).
Hawaii's vast outdoor food, wine, and entertainment
festival provides tastes from top restaurants, fun and educational
activities, cooking demonstrations and non-stop local
entertainment. Downtown Honolulu. 808-536-1015
June 25-26: ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL (Big Island).
A major celebration in a beautiful historic setting,
including traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts, canoe rides,
Hawaiian Royal Court, Hawaiian food tasting and a hukilau
(community fishing event). Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical
Park, South Kohala. 808-328-2288
July 2: PINEAPPLE FESTIVAL (Lanai).
This annual event celebrates Lanai's rich pineapple
plantation and ranch history. Residents and visitors enjoy local
foods, craft and game booths, and exceptional entertainment. Dole
Park, Lanai City. 800-947-4774
July 16: PRINCE LOT HULA FESTIVAL (Oahu).
In a beautiful shaded outdoor setting, here's the oldest
and largest non-competitive hula festival in Hawaii. Moanalua
Gardens, Honolulu. 808-839-5334
Mid-July: PACIFIC HANDCRAFTERS GUILD ANNUAL SUMMER
FESTIVAL (Oahu).
The crowds gather each year to purchase island-made
wares. Food and entertainment, a native Hawaiian plant sale,
massage tent, bonsai demonstration and martial arts demonstration
are also on hand. Thomas Square, Honolulu. 808-841-0171
July 23-31: KOLOA PLANTATION DAYS (Kauai).
A full week honoring the island's plantation history,
with entertainment, sports, Hawaiian games, historic walks, crafts,
a block party and parade. Various locations. 808-822-0734
Aug. 6-7: MAUI ONION FESTIVAL (Maui).
The sweet Maui product is feted during a weekend of chef
demonstrations, cooking contests, tastings, a farmer's market,
games, live music and an onion-eating contest. Whalers Village,
Kaanapali Resort. 866-FUN-N-SUN
Aug. 19-21: SLACK KEY WORKSHOPS (Oahu).
Here's a hands-on opportunity chance to learn more about
Hawaii's distinctive slack key guitar music with masters of the
craft. Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach. 800-688-7444
Aug. 19-21: MADE IN HAWAII FESTIVAL (Oahu).
Offerings for 2005 include food, books, gifts, fashions,
plants, arts, crafts and produce, along with live entertainment and
Hawaii culinary artists. Neal Blaisdell Center, Honolulu.
808-533-1292
Aug. 21-Oct. 15: ALOHA FESTIVALS (statewide).
Hawaii's premier showcase, this celebration of music,
dance and history aims to preserve unique island traditions. Event
dates vary according to islands. 800-852-7690
Sept. 9-10: A TASTE OF LAHAINA (Maui).
Sample dishes from popular Maui County restaurants,
listen to live local music, let the kids play in the games area,
and sip a few in the beer and wine garden. Lahaina Recreation Park
II Ballpark. 888-310-1117
Sept. 17: ALOHA FESTIVALS FLORAL PARADE (Oahu).
A cascade of flowers, floats, horseback riders and
marching bands float through Honolulu, ending in Waikiki.
800-852-7690
Sept. 25: QUEEN LILIUOKALANI MUSIC FESTIVAL (Big
Island).
Honoring Hawaii's last Monarch, the event features music,
food and dance, a flower drop, multi-ethnic dancing, performances
by 300 hula dancers and island entertainers. Queen Liliuokalani
Park, Hilo. (808) 961-8706
Oct. 13: HAWAIIANA FESTIVAL (Kauai).
Highlights include a nature walk, island crafts
demonstrations, local comedians, live music and an evening concert.
Hyatt Regency Kauai. 808-240-6369
Oct. 20-30: HAWAII INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
(statewide).
Dedicated to the advancement of understanding and
cultural exchange among the peoples of Asia, the Pacific and North
America through the medium of film. Various sites. 808-528-3456
Nov. 9-13: HAWAII'S BIG ISLAND FESTIVAL (Big
Island).
A five-day showcase of all that makes the island unique,
including fine wines and cutting-edge island cuisine, agriculture,
fine arts, health and wellness, championship golf, history and
Hawaiian culture. Various locations. 808-934-9044
Nov. 4-13: KONA COFFEE CULTURAL FESTIVAL (Big
Island).
Hawaii's oldest food fest features over 30 events, like
art exhibits, tastings, a cupping competition, a coffee picking
competition, coffee recipe cooking contest, farm tours, sporting
events and a parade. Various locations. 808-326-7820
Nov. 10-12: WORLD INVITATIONAL HULA FESTIVAL (Oahu).
Halau (troupes) from California, Mexico and Japan join
with local dancers to share their love of hula, Hawaiian culture
and language. Waikiki Shell. 808-735-7950
Dec. 9: NATIVE MEDICINAL PLANTS (Oahu).
Learn about the uses of Hawaii's native plants at this
fascinating lecture and hands-on demonstration led by a Hawaiian
medicinal plant expert. Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach.
800-688-7444
Dec. 11: NA MELE NEI ... THE MUSIC OF HAWAII TODAY
(Oahu).
Showcasing a variety of island tunes, with a free
Hawaiian music sing-along, on the second Sunday of every month.
Ward Warehouse Stage, Honolulu. 808-596-8885
Dec. 22: KEIKI KALIKIMAKA (Oahu).
Fun holiday activities are designed especially for
children, including Hawaiian-style ornament making, Santa's arrival
on an outrigger catamaran and local holiday stories. Outrigger Reef
on the Beach. 800-688-7444
Dec. 31: MOCHI (RICE CAKE) POUNDING FOR THE NEW YEAR
(Big Island).
Traditional rice cakes are made the old-fashioned way,
and everyone takes a turn at pounding the glutinous sticky rice for
good luck. Fire building starts at 6 a.m. to steam the rice.
Akiko's Buddhist Bed and Breakfast, Wailea. 808-963-6422
