Poke, anyone? It’s the appetizer of choice in the Hawaiian Islands, so when you’re enjoying a sunset cocktail or an afternoon snack at a local cafe or restaurant, be sure to order some poke, a raw fish dish similar to ceviche, but with its own Hawaiian twist. The word “poke” means “cubed,” and that’s precisely …
Read More
Posts Categorized: Hawaii Island cultural events

Artists Auction at Malulani Pavilion
Some of the Big Island’s most prestigious artists gathered together on Saturday, October 20 for the second-annual Hawai‘i Collaboration art auction, held at Holualoa Inn’s newly unveiled Malulani Pavilion. Brimming with catered cuisine and artisan brew on tap, the pavilion provided the ideal setting for residents and visitors to bid on 63 different works of …
Read More
It’s Bon Dance Season in Hawai‘i
A longtime tradition in Hawai‘i, bon dances are lighting up the night at Buddhist temples across the Islands. Here on the Big Island, the summer months provide opportunities for visitors to experience this unique Japanese event that honors loved ones who have passed on. Known officially as Obon, the celebrations begin in June at various …
Read More
Hawaiian Cultural Festival
Among the most anticipated cultural events in Kona each year, the annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival will be held the weekend of June 29 through July 1, 2012 at Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. Now in its 51st year, the festival transports visitors back to Old Hawai‘i, circa 1800s, providing a uniquely Hawaiian experience on …
Read More
Waiki‘i Music Festival Returns to Big Island
After a long hiatus, the popular weekend-long Waiki‘i Music Festival returns to Waiki‘i Ranch on June 16 and 17, featuring a host of acclaimed Hawaiian music artists including Grammy Award-winning Cyril Pahinui, Amy Hanaiali‘i, John Cruz, Paula Fuga, Makana and Willie K. A “unique celebration of paniolo, Hawaiian and country music,” the event also features …
Read More
Merrie Monarch Festival in Full Swing
This year’s 49th annual Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo brings together the worldwide hula community for the most prestigious event in hula. Taking place April 8 through 14, the festival showcases a variety of activities proceeding the main events on Friday and Saturday, where halau (clubs) from Hawai‘i and the mainland compete in kahiko (traditional) …
Read More
Big Island Woodworkers
Best of Show by Marcus Castaing This year’s annual Hawai‘i Woodshow produced six winners from the Big Island, highlighted by Best of Show award-winner Marcus Castaing, whose gorgeous koa cabinet features the artful use of the wood’s natural curl. The 20th annual event, which is sponsored by the Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association, took place in Honolulu …
Read More
King Kamehameha III — Born on the Big Island
Take a drive through the Keauhou area of Kona and you might notice the name of King Kamehameha III on street signs and bronze plaques. That’s because this second son of Kamehameha the Great was born right here in Kona at Keauhou Bay. After he rose to the throne following his brother’s death, Kamehameha III …
Read More