Here are 7 special Hawaii events you’re sure to enjoy on your vacation. Whether you’re into exercise or eating, one of these events will certainly float your boat.
Oahu Events
These events take place near Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. For accommodations near these events browse our rentals in Oahu.
1) Tinman Triathalon
The Tinman Triathalon takes place July 19, 2009 at Kapiolani Park. The race consists of a 750-meter swim, 40-kilometer bike and 10-kilometer run. The race starts at Kapiolani Park at 5 a.m. For more information contact Olga at (808) 595-5317.
2) Pan-Pacific Festival – Matsuri in Hawaii
Another exciting upcoming event is the Pan-Pacific Festival – Matsuri in Hawaii which takes place from June 5 to June 7, 2009 in Honolulu. Matsuri in the Hawaiian Islands began in 1980 as a cultural exchange between Japan and Hawaii to facilitate increased interaction between these two cultures. In Japan they call the event Matsuri in Hawaii. The vision is Matsuri as a means to enrich the lives of both participating artists and guest audiences, while also providing Hawaii residents with a rewarding participation in and exposure to traditional Japanese culture.
In 1996, the festival expanded to include groups representing many cultures of the Pacific Rim. In order to recognize this wider focus, the event name was then changed to Pan-Pacific Festival Matsuri in Hawaii.
Events held during the festival include: Kaze (Wind) Festival, Performing Arts Showcase, Pan-Pacific Hoolaulea, Art & Craft Fair, Annual Pan-Pacific Hula Festival, Performing Arts Showcase, and Pan-Pacific Matsuri Parade.
3) 11th Annual Shinnyo-En Hawaii Lantern Floating Ceremony
The Shinnyo-En Hawaii Lantern Floating Ceremony takes place at Ala Moana Beach Park on May 25, 2009. At sunset on Memorial Day, over 1000 candle-lit lanterns will be cast afloat from the shores of Ala Moana Beach Park by members and friends of Shinnyo-en Hawaii.
The ceremony is called Toro Nagashi, or Lantern Floating, and it is a time honored Buddhist tradition that is practiced throughout Japan to express respect for ancestors and comfort the spirits of the deceased. All are invited to take part in this spiritual event, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Pre-activities at 4 p.m. For further information contact Shinnyo-en Hawaii at 947-2814.
Big Island Events
This events take place on the main island of Hawaii. For accommodations near this even check out our Big Island vacation rentals. Note that the Big Island is large and you will want to stay near the event to avoid long drive times.
4) Kamehameha Festival
The Kamehameha Festival takes place on June 11, 2009 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm in Hilo, Hawaii. Free and open to the public, the Festival features Hawaiian music, chant, dance, crafts, and food.
Lanai Events
5) 17th Annual Lanai Pineapple Festival
The 17th Annual Lanai Pineapple Festival takes place on July 4, 2009 at Dole Park in Lanai City and is an annual event sponsored by Destination Lanai, a day for residents and visitors to enjoy the celebration of the islands pineapple plantation and ranch history.
Local food, craft and game booths, local entertainment and live music. Pineapple eating & cooking contests, pineapple cutting & Hawaiian crafting demonstrations. Everyone is invited.
Kauai Events
This is a great event that I visit every year. This event is withing driving distance of anywhere on the island, so you can choose from any of our Kauai rentals.
6) Taste Of Hawaii
The Taste Of Hawaii is “The Ultimate Sunday Brunch” and takes place in Wailua, Kauai at Smith’s Tropical Paradise on June 7. Tickets are $75.
There will 50 chefs from restaurants around Hawaii, and also 15+ beverage vendors, 10+ musical and entertainment groups, and a Boutique Auction. Smith’s Tropical Paradise is a stunning 30 acre private park located at 45971 Kuhio Highway in Kapaa.
Maui Events
Make the most out of your Maui vacation with this wine and food festivals. For places to stay nearby, browse our Lahaina vacation rentals.
7) Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival takes place from June 11 to June 14 at the Kapalua Resort in Lahaina, Maui. Hosted by Master Sommelier Fred Dame, this renowned event convenes all-star winemakers and sommeliers, celebrity chefs and connoisseurs from around the world in a series of exceptional wine tastings, festive evening functions and gourmet cooking demonstrations paired with wine at the spectacular Kapalua Resort.
Celebrating its 28th anniversary, this nationally acclaimed food and wine extravaganza includes alfresco samplings of reserve bottlings and the bounty from Hawaii’s ocean prepared by top Hawai`i chefs. Opening event is The Grand Tasting and closing event is Kapalua Seafood Festival.
If you are looking for accommodations near any of these events, check out the largest selection of places to stay in Hawaii.