CHRISTMAS IN HAWAII: HOLIDAY EVENTS ON THE BIG ISLAND

Hawaii is the perfect place to spend a Christmas holiday. Palm trees wrapped in Christmas lights can feel just as festive as fir trees—and instead of freezing outside in the snow you’ll spend your days soaking in the sun with your toes in the sand. If you and yours are spending the holidays on the Big Island this year, there are plenty of holiday-related activities you can do that will help you feel the Christmas cheer. Here’s a list of holiday events on the Big Island to make the season bright.

Kailua Kona Boat Parade

December 11, 6:00pm

The lighted boat parade is one of the highlights of the Christmas season. It’s the perfect family event—kids will love seeing all their favorite Christmas characters made out of brightly colored lights. Beautifully ornamented boats will light up Kailua Bay starting at 6:00pm. Join spectators on the pier for the best view. Food and beverages will be served so come hungry! More info here.

24th Annual Big Island Craft Fair

December 16, 4:00pm – 9:00pm

December 17, 9:00am – 4:00pm

Arts and crafts are deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture The tradition takes on a festive twist at the annual Big Island craft fair in Hilo. Local vendors will gather to sell their handmade goods and share their knowledge with visitors. It’s the perfect place to pick up gifts for your family back home, and kids will love making their own Hawaiian creations. More info here.

Hula Kahiko at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

December 17, 10:30-11:30 am

While Christmas, as we know it today, wasn’t introduced to the Hawaiian islands until about 1780, ancient Hawaiians had their own holiday traditions. Christmas coincides with a traditional Hawaiian celebration period known as Makahiki during which there were grand feasts, games, and war was strictly forbidden. Enjoy the holiday season as it was in ancient Hawaii by watching a traditional Hula. Bring a mat to sit on and a rain jacket if it’s stormy. The event will go on rain or shine. More info here.  

Annual Wailea Village Annual Mochi Pounding

December 30, 8:00am – 2:00pm

In the small village of Wailea, Hakalau, locals and tourists alike gather for the annual mochi pounding. To make mochi—the sticky, sweet rice treat popular in Hawaii—rice must be pounded into a gum-like consistency. Take a turn hammering with the traditional tools (it’s said to bring good luck in the new year)! Call (808) 963-6422 or e-mail [email protected] for more info.

We hope you enjoy a wonderful vacation here on the Big Island! If you’d like to take a look at some real estate during your visit, we’d be happy to show you around. Give us a call at (808) 217-8500. We have years of experience, are familiar with all the communities and neighborhoods on the island, and would love to help you find your Big Island dream home.