Kauai Special Events

Feb 20, 2011

When visitors take part in a special event on Kauai, they know exactly where they stand. That's because Garden Island residents cultivate each festivity with a sense of place that tags it as their own. Through the rest of 2011, clients who join the fun are rewarded with insights into what makes Kauai unique. Following are a few examples of quintessential Kauai experiences.

March 19-26: Prince Kuhio Celebration
Honoring the birthday and birthplace of beloved Hawaii monarch Prince Kuhio, this week of events includes a long-distance outrigger canoe race, a royal dinner, a Hawaiian fashion contest and hands-on fare such as free ukulele lessons and talk-story sessions. Clients can get invovled at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, Prince Kuhio Park, Kukuiula Village, Plantation Gardens and Marriottís Waiohai Beach Club.
www.kauai.hyatt.com

May 1: Kauai Museum May Day Celebration and Lei Contest
Showcasing the best in traditional and contemporary lei-making for the past 30 years, the lei contest comes with stringent rules and judging -- for instance, no wild, endemic plants are allowed in the creations. Visitors can watch demonstrations and try stringing their own floral creation. Rounding out the fun are a silent and live auction, crafts displays and entertainment.
www.kauaimuseum.org

June 5: Taste of Hawaii
It's dubbed the Ultimate Sunday Brunch, and rightfully so. Clients can enjoy savory cuisine prepared by 50 top Hawaii chefs while relaxing in the gardens of Smith's Tropical Paradise. Beverage stations stand ready with beer, wine, sodas, coffee drinks and smoothies. Local musicians set an island tone throughout the afternoon, and a silent auction draws plenty of bidders.
www.tasteofhawaii.com

July 23-31: Koloa Plantation Days
Family-oriented events celebrate the plantation heritage and modern-day vitality of Kauai's south shore. Each year, the festival brings visitors and residents together to learn about Koloa's multicultural history; experience a diverse range of local foods, culture and activities; explore the area's unique ecology and archaeology; and enjoy the warm hospitality of the island.
www.koloaplantationdays.com

Sept. 4: Kauai Marathon
Kauai's tropical splendor creates a lush backdrop for this 26.2-mile road race, which starts and ends in Poipu Resort. Runners follow one of the world's most scenic marathon courses, past sparkling seas, pristine beaches and rainforests. Proceeds go to local charities dedicated to preserving the island's natural environment. The post-race party rewards finishers with live entertainment and a beer garden.
www.thekauaimarathon.com

Oct. 1: Coconut Festival
Immersing visitors in all things coconut, this outdoor celebration is East Kauai's signature event. There's nonstop entertainment on a main stage, cooking demonstrations, local craftspeople selling their wares, games, pie-eating contests, a coconut cook-off contest, hands-on activities and cultural presentations, all at Kapaa Beach Park. www.kbakauai.org