SPOTLIGHT: OAHU
April 27: Haleiwa Metric Century Ride. Sightseeing and exercise intermingle during this leisurely bicycling event on Oahu’s North Shore. Families and friends pedal past beautiful beaches and rural communities. The race includes different route lengths for all ages and skill levels, and riders have access to frequent refreshment stations.
www.hbl.org
HAWAII ISLAND
April 20-26: Merrie Monarch Festival. Hawaii’s most prestigious hula competition features group contests in ancient and modern dances and a solo Miss Aloha Hula competition. Tickets to the stage performances are hard to come by, but related public events include an outdoor party on Coconut Island and a parade through Hilo.
www.merriemonarch.com
KAUAI
April 11-12: Kauai Orchid and Art Festival. Creativity is in bloom at this free, annual flower fest in the historic west Kauai town of Hanapepe. Highlights include plant displays, art workshops, plein air painters, a silent auction, walking tours, children’s activities, food and live entertainment.
www.hanapepe.org
MAUI
April 4: Wailuku First Friday. Charming Wailuku holds its monthly street party with sidewalk artisans, crafters and food vendors, plus contests, workshops and live music. The free community event gives visitors a chance to mingle with locals and sample specials from favorite eateries.
www.mauifridays.com
OAHU
April 1: Kuhio Beach Torch Lighting Show. Nightly, except Mondays, this free outdoor event opens with a torch-lighting ceremony and the blowing of a conch shell. Next, visitors are treated to Hawaiian music and hula by the sea. Festivities begin at sunset near the statue of famed Hawaiian athlete Duke Kahanamoku in Waikiki.
www.gohawaii.com
