Spotlight: Kauai
July 20-29: Koloa Plantation Days. Sugar has deep roots on Kauai, and this annual event pays a sweet tribute to the crop with activities such as sports contests, craft fairs, block parties, guided hikes, historical tours, a rodeo and, on the final weekend, a parade followed by a festival. Look for it at various venues in south Kauai. 808-652-3217, www.koloaplantationdays.com
Hawaii Island
July 4: Parker Ranch Rodeo. What’s the difference between a regular ranch hand and a real-life paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy)? The answer awaits at this yearly roping, riding and racing jamboree, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Island buckaroos demonstrate rodeo skills and spectators sample local food. Waimea. 808-885-7311, www.parkerranch.com
July 14: Kilauea Cultural Festival. At this celebration of Hawaiiana, visitors have the chance to meet with locals and learn how to make a lauhala bracelet, throw fishing nets and decorate gourds as live Hawaiian music and hula serenades the festivities. Crater Rim Dr., Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 808-985-6166, www.nps.gov/havo
July 28: Mango Festival. The luscious mango takes center stage with tastings, exhibits, demonstrations and other fruity activities, plus performing arts, sustainable living displays, arts and crafts, healthy food and Hawaiian entertainment. Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, Kailua-Kona. 808-334-3340, www.outrigger.com
Kauai
July 6-8: Kauai Kau Wela Summer Festival. Now in its fourth year, this free summertime tradition presents a delightful mix of Hawaiian and Polynesian music and movement, including hula and Tahitian dance contests, as well as arts and crafts demonstrations. Kukui Grove Center, Lihue. 808-822-5929, www.kauaifestivals.com
July 14, 21, 28: Wonderwalks. Guided hikes on various upcountry trails lead clients through some of Kauai’s prettiest forests. Outings along the Kaluapuhi and Berry Flats trails work well for families, and moderate hikers can try Halemanu Loop. Call ahead to reserve a spot. Kokee State Park. 808-335-9975, www.kokee.org
Maui County
July 4: Lahaina Fireworks. This old-fashioned celebration of Independence Day enlivens the historic whaling town of Lahaina, home of seaside shops, galleries and restaurants. Live music leads up to a fireworks display. 808-667-9194, www.visitlahaina.com
July 11, 18, 25: Masters of Hawaiian Music. Every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., entertainer George Kahumoku Jr. hosts a show starring Hawaii performers who are legends in the world of island music. This month’s guests are Ledward Kaapana, John Keawe and Nathan Aweau. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 888-669-3858, www.slackkey.com
July 29: Molokai to Oahu Paddleboard Race. Considered the world championship of long-distance, open-ocean paddling, this race spans 32 miles of treacherous seas. More than 250 men and women from 15 countries compete on prone and stand-up boards. The race starts at Kepuhi Beach on Molokai’s west shore. 808-638-8208, www.molokai2oahu.com
Oahu
July 14: Korean Festival. Now in its 11th year, this festival offers an inside look at Korean culture. Clients can enjoy demonstrations of martial arts along with cultural exhibits, Korean cuisine, art and live entertainment. Kapiolani Park Bandstand, Waikiki. 808-382-1980, www.koreanfestivalhi.com
July 21: Prince Lot Hula Festival. The state’s oldest and largest non-competitive exhibition of hula takes place under decades-old monkeypod trees. In between acts, clients can learn crafts, play traditional games and sample local food at this 35-year-old tradition. Moanalua Gardens, Honolulu. 808-839-5334, www.moanaluagardensfoundation.org
July 22: Ukulele Festival. For 42 years, residents and visitors have enjoyed this showcase of some of the world’s finest ukulele players along with Hawaii entertainers and a ukulele orchestra of 800 children. Food and displays round out the plucky event. Kapiolani Park Bandstand, Waikiki. 808-781-7800, www.ukulelefestivalhawaii.org
