SPOTLIGHT: OAHU
July 20: Ukulele Festival. For 44 years, residents and visitors have enjoyed this showcase of some of the world’s finest ukulele players, in addition to Hawaiian entertainers and a ukulele orchestra of 800 children. Food and cultural displays round out the event in Waikiki’s Kapiolani Park Bandstand.
www.ukulelefestivalhawaii.org
HAWAII ISLAND
July 26-Aug. 2: Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. Serious anglers from around the world head to Hawaii Island for this prestigious deep-sea fishing contest, now in its 55th year. Each afternoon, the crews return to the docks with their hefty catch in hopes of winning cash prizes. Visitors cheer for the opening Kona parade and exciting weigh-ins at Kailua Pier.
www.hibtfishing.com
KAUAI
July 18-27: Koloa Plantation Days. Sugar has deep roots on Kauai, and this annual event pays sweet tribute to the crop with 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 southern Kauai.
www.koloaplantationdays.com
MAUI
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 by a variety of bands ushers in a fireworks display that lights up the night sky.
www.visitlahaina.com
OAHU
July 19: Prince Lot Hula Festival. The 37-year-old hula exhibition takes place under the monkeypod trees of Moanalua Gardens in Honolulu. Between acts, clients can learn crafts, play traditional games and sample local food.
www.moanaluagardensfoundation.org
