SPOTLIGHT: MAUI
March 1-2: Lahaina Whale and Ocean Arts Festival. Maui’s historic whaling town celebrates the annual migration of the Pacific humpbacks with this annual event. Free festivities include educational presentations by whale research groups, photo displays and videos, marine-themed art for sale, Hawaiian musicians and hula troupes.
www.visitlahaina.com
HAWAII ISLAND
March 5-8: Kona Brewers Festival. From the lightest lagers to the darkest stouts, beer flows freely from more than 40 breweries while restaurants dish up culinary creations. The Pacific’s largest beer fest doubles as a benefit for various organizations. Also on tap: live music, an auction, a footrace and a whale watching cruise. Kailua-Kona.
www.konabrewersfestival.com
KAUAI
March 15-29: Prince Kuhio Celebration. Honoring the birth of a beloved monarch in Kauai, activities include cultural demonstrations, “talk-story” sessions, canoe races, a rodeo and a luau. New this year: a tour to Prince Kuhio’s birthplace. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa.
www.princekuhio.net
MAUI
March 7: Wailuku First Friday. A monthly street party in the town of Wailuku boasts family-friendly options such as sidewalk bands, restaurant specials, live performances, artisans and crafters and poetry slams. The street closes to local traffic from 6-8 p.m. for this free community event.
www.mauifridays.com
OAHU
March 7-9: Honolulu Festival. Fireworks light up the skies over Waikiki Beach during this celebration of harmony between people of the Pacific. The three-day event features breathtaking performances and cultural demonstrations, a lively parade through Waikiki and a race where runners wear ribbon leis as sashes. Hawaii Convention Center and Waikiki.
www.honolulufestival.com
