The Big Island of Hawaii is always a happening place. There’s so much culture and history that it’s impossible to enjoy it from the confines of your living room! If you’re looking to get out and experience the Islands in all their glory, check out one, or several, of the events going on this month.
Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival – February 7-9th
Celebrate the music that made Hawaii famous. The 4th annual Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival has been rescheduled for February 7-9th at the Mauna Lani resort in Kamuela. It will feature performances by Hawaiian steel guitar masters, jam sessions, workshops and open stage performances for experts and amateurs alike. Even if you’re not interested in participating, you can hear some of the best steel guitar players in the world and learn about the music that has become a part of Hawaiian culture.
The festival is FREE to the public.
Best of Kona Festival – February 8th
Dozens of local businesses, restaurants, food trucks, non-profits and clubs are coming together for a “first of its kind” lifestyle festival in downtown Kailua-Kona. Take part in this celebration of community where all of Kona can come together as one and focus on sustainability and enjoying a life well lived.
The Best of Kona Festival is being sponsored by local businesses and is FREE to the public. Come enjoy plenty of local food, art, culture and entertainment for the whole family. There are also workshops and educational presentations focusing on core elements of living a sustainable Hawaiian lifestyle.
Thrive Fest Hawaii – February 9th
Celebrate the unique spirit of Aloha at Thrive Fest Hawaii! This gathering of spirits will include local musicians, DJ’s, traditional drum and dance performances, visual artists and yoga, along with plenty of activities for the kids like arts, crafts, workshops and playshops. And of course, there’s always going to be fresh, locally grown food for everyone to enjoy a taste of the Islands.
Cheesemaking in Paradise – February 17th – 23rd
Looking for something unique to do? Why not try your hand at cheesemaking!? Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantaion in Kona is offering an exciting culinary adventure to anyone looking for a few days of luxury in paradise.
Stay in the beautiful farmhouse overlooking the ocean and the 20-acre estate. Included in the registration fee are the 3-day cheesemaking course, which will result in your Gold-Level Artisan Cheesemaking Certification, a six-night luxury stay on the plantation, a wine and cheese reception, continental breakfast every morning, lunch and dinner on cheesemaking days, access to the incredible gourmet kitchen and a 4x4 tour of the plantation. In your spare time, enjoy some well-earned rest and relaxation from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Waimea Town Celebration: Kauai Paniolo Showdown Rodeo – February 20th
The largest traditional rodeo in all of Hawaii is coming to the Big Island! At the end of February, the 43rd Annual Waimea Town Celebration is proud to host the Kauai Paniolo Showdown Rodeo at the West Friendship Do Ranch, also known as the Old Waimea Dairy.
The rodeo isn’t entirely traditional though. There will also be events like the Paniolo Poowalu and the Double Mugging, which are unique to Hawaiian rodeos. Tickets are $5 per adult and $3 per child. Grab your cowboy hat and head over to Waimea!