Spotlight: Maui
Oct. 14: Maui Ukulele Festival. Renowned ukulele advocate and teacher Roy Sakuma serves as emcee for this relaxed, free afternoon celebrating Hawaii’s beloved instrument, with plucky performances by top musicians. Student and senior bands take to the stage as well, and island crafts and foods enhance the festivities. Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului. www.mauiarts.org
Hawaii Island
Oct. 13: Ironman Triathlon World Championship. Some 1,800 hardy athletes converge for one of the world’s most demanding sporting events, comprised of a 2.4-mile ocean swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run. Competitors have 17 hours to finish the race, which begins and ends in Kailua-Kona. www.ironman.com/worldchampionship
Kauai
Oct. 6-7: Coconut Festival. Here’s a way to rub elbows with locals while learning about one of Hawaii’s favorite products. Visitors can sign up for the coconut pie-eating contest, enjoy live entertainment and local foods, learn how to make coconut crafts and more. Kapaa Beach Park. www.kbakauai.org
Oct. 13: Emalani Festival. In 1871, Hawaii’s Queen Emma blazed trails when she and her entourage embarked on a spontaneous journey by foot through the upland forests of Kauai. Today, this free, annual tribute to her leadership and adventurous nature features live Hawaiian music, traditional chants, hula, crafts and exhibits. Kokee State Park. www.kokee.org
Oct. 18-20: Na Lima Hana Festival. Translated as “many hands working,” Na Lima Hana presents cultural and health practitioners offering activities, demonstrations and entertainment. Clients learn about crafts, uses of medicinal plants, salt-making and other island traditions while enjoying food and live music. Grand Hyatt Kauai. www.nalimahana.net
Maui County
Oct. 11-13: Molokai Festivals of Aloha. As part of the statewide celebration of Hawaii’s culture and aloha spirit, three days of Molokai-style events include a poke (seasoned raw tuna) contest, aloha attire contest, youth talent night, parade, bed race and hoolaulea (outdoor party) with entertainment, games, arts, crafts and local foods. Various locations. www.festivalsofaloha.com
Oct. 26-28: Lanai Film Festival. Now in its third year, this celebration of Hawaiian films, art, culture and music is free to visitors. Attendees can watch screenings of world-premiere island movies and attend Hawaiian cultural workshops — such as arts and crafts — presented by revered musicians Brother Noland and Keola Beamer. Four Seasons Resort Lanai, The Lodge at Koele. www.hawaiiontv.com
Oahu
Oct. 1-31: Haunted Lagoon. Throughout the Halloween season, a spooky canoe ride twists through a lagoon under dark bridges and past ominous shadows — participants never know what may reach out from the depths below. A kid-friendly version of the ride is also available. Polynesian Cultural Center. www.hauntedlagoon.com
Oct. 11-21: Hawaii International Film Festival. This annual celebration of the cinema regales audiences with a full slate of films from Asia, the Pacific Rim and North America. Clients can attend seminars, workshops, award presentations and receptions with movie stars, filmmakers and industry professionals. Various locations. www.hiff.org
