SPOTLIGHT: MAUI
09.18: Maui Marathon. One of the most scenic marathons in the U.S., this point-to-point race begins in Kahului and ends in Kaanapali. Along the way, participants get ocean views from seaside highways. Visitors can also sign up for a half-marathon, a 10K, a 5K and a 1-mile run through Lahaina.
www.mauimarathonhawaii.com
HAWAII ISLAND
09.3-4: Parker Ranch Round-Up Rodeo. Hooves are flying at this annual event in Waimea’s paniolo (cowboy) country. Now in its 42nd year, the jamboree features two afternoons of rodeo fun such as team roping, double mugging, bull riding, bronco busting and more.
www.parkerranch.com
09.9: Mealani’s Taste of the Hawaiian Range. This festival at Hilton Waikoloa Village provides clients with an appetizing and entertaining way to learn about local products. Chefs prepare dishes using pasture-raised beef, farm-fresh vegetables and exotic island fruit. During a demonstration, attendees get recipes and cooking tips.
www.tasteofthehawaiianrange.com
KAUAI
09.18-24: Kauai Mokihana Festival. Kauai’s heritage is celebrated throughout the week at various local venues. Visitors enjoy cultural demonstrations, concerts, food, storytelling and more. Highlights include a Kauai composers contest and several hula competitions.
www.maliefoundation.org
09.23-25: Powwow in Paradise. This event at Kapaa Beach Park takes a cue from Native American powwows and includes a drum gathering, a color guard, storytelling, kids’ activities and more.
www.kauai.com
OAHU
09.5: Waikiki Roughwater Swim. This event attracts swimmers of all strokes who gather at Sans Souci Beach for an 8:30 a.m. start. The 2.4-mile ocean course ends at the beach in front of Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Rainbow Tower.
www.waikikiroughwaterswim.com
09.24: Aloha Festivals Floral Parade. Thousands of people share their aloha as they march in Hawaii’s most famous parade. The procession includes pau riders (women on flower-studded horses), hula troupes and more. The free event begins at Ala Moana Park and ends at Kapiolani Park.
www.alohafestivals.com
