SPOTLIGHT: KAUAI
07.20-29: Koloa Plantation Days. This sweet annual tradition honors Hawaii’s sugar plantation history. The event has venues around south Kauai, and highlights range from a rodeo, a ukulele contest, a minigolf tournament and a fun run to performances, old-time games, outdoor movies, stories, parties and a colorful parade.
www.koloaplantationdays.com
HAWAII ISLAND
07.4: Parker Ranch Rodeo. Celebrating the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy), this roundup starts with a parade of participants from different ranches. The rest of the day, crowds roar for the fast-paced action in the arena. Crafts, food and a petting zoo are also available.
www.parkerranch.com
07.15: Kokua Kailua. Once per month, Kailua Village closes the streets to cars so that pedestrians can stroll the road. Booths of island creations and edibles line the promenade on oceanfront Alii Drive, and folks relax on the lawn of historic Hulihee Palace for live entertainment.
www.historickailuavillage.com
MAUI
07.4: Lahaina July Fourth Celebration. Old Lahaina town does Independence Day right, from shopping and Hawaii-style snacks to balloon wizards, face painters and stilt walkers. Musicians and bands perform, and fireworks light the sky off Front Street.
www.visitlahaina.com
07.20: Makawao Third Fridays. If it’s Friday evening, there’s a party happening in one of Maui’s small towns. Tonight, it’s Makawao, the Upcountry paniolo hub that comes to life with arts, eats and dancing in the streets.
www.mauifridays.com
OAHU
07.15: Ukulele Festival. Hawaii’s famed instrument shines during this gathering in Waikiki’s Kapiolani Park. Top tunesters take turns in the spotlight, and an 800-person ukulele ensemble also takes the stage. Displays, giveaways and food increase the happiness factor.
www.ukulelefestivalhawaii.org
07.21-22: Prince Lot Hula Festival. Named for the 19th-century prince who helped revive Hawaii’s signature dance, this is the state’s largest noncompetitive hula event. Thousands of enthusiasts turn out for the free festivities, held outside Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu.
www.moanaluagardensfoundation.org
