When culture and cuisine collide Hawaiian style, it’s got to be
good. Fans of this duo can taste the magic for themselves when
Hilton Waikoloa Village hosts the Fifth Annual Hawaii’s Big Island
Festival Nov. 17-19.
This three-day adventure partners Hawaii’s top culinary stars with
the freshest of tropical ingredients and wines from around the
world. And the result is nothing short of tasteful.
This year’s “Best of the Big Island” theme draws guests to sample
culinary creations from Island-grown ingredients. They’ll discover
exclusive Big Island products, see cultural demonstrations, review
fine art at the festival pavilion, explore prestigious spas and
golf courses along the Kohala Coast, and meet prominent Big Island
chefs all with the “aloha spirit.”
Rachelle Hennings, director of marketing, described the event’s
appeal to visitors wanting to experience real Hawaii.
“With over 20 events spread across the luxurious Kohala and Kona
Coasts, you’ll have the chance to sample all the Big Island has to
offer,” she remarked.
Hennings commented on the streamlining and attractive scheduling
for this year’s event.
“We’ve added a charitable component, increased use of local
in-gredients by participating chefs and added to a first-rate wine
program that was implemented in 2005.”
She noted that a final gala dinner is considered a festival
highlight. Held under the stars, the event will feature over twenty
of Hawaii’s premier culinary artists, a wide selection of exotic
cocktails and world class wines, live music, dancing and a benefit
silent auction for the Big Island’s Keck Observatory.
Calendar of Events
Friday, November 17
Golf Passport (Nov. 16 -21)
Golf discounts are offered at Waikoloa Beach Course, Waikoloa
Kings’ Golf Course, Hapuna Golf Course, and Mauna Lani North and
South Golf Courses.
Spa Passport (Nov. 17 only)
Mini-treatments, spa tour, and gift from the Kohala Spa at Hilton
Waikoloa Village, Mauna Lani Spa at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &
Bungalows and Mandara Spa at Waikoloa Beach Marriott.
New Waves at NELHA (Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii)
Luncheon and Tour
Learn how seafood is grown and harvested at the state-of-the-art
aquaculture facility on the Kohala Coast.
Grand Wine Tasting and Artists’ Reception - “Wonderful Whites,
Remarkable Reds”
Located at The Gallery - Hilton Waikoloa Village, the event will
highlight Big Island artists and their masterpieces as guests
sa-vor fine vintage wines.
Grand Hukilau
Experience a traditional Hawaiian buffet feast and cultural
Hukilau (net fishing) with entertainment and island cocktails.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Festival Pavilion
Displays encompass “The Best of the Big Island” fine arts, local
agriculture, gourmet foods and exclusive Hawaii-made products.
Wine Seminars and Tastings
Two wine seminars and tastings allow guests to learn about
vintages from some of the world’s most respected sommeliers.
Final Gala Dinner - “The BIG Taste”
Held on the Lagoon Lanai, the festival’s closing dinner features
Hawaii’s top chefs, wine pairings, live entertainment, dancing and
a silent auction.
After Party - “Meet the Chefs” at Malolo Lounge
Sunday, Nov. 19
Cocktail Seminar
Learn how to create signature cocktails, as well as new and
exciting drinks with an Island flair.
“Eat Right” Kohala Spa Cuisine Luncheon
Discover the health benefits of wine during a gourmet luncheon
complete with organic wine pairings.
For guestroom information, call 800-445-8667. Special room and
ticket packages are to be announced. Ask about the Platinum
Pass.
866-424-3378
www.bigislandfestival.com
