Extended Weekend Getaways 
April 5-11 – HILO – Hosted by the Merrie Monarch Festival, this arts fair showcases master artisans presenting featherwork, wood carvings, kapa cloth, and traditional instruments. Visitors can meet cultural practitioners, watch demonstrations, and purchase authentic handmade pieces unique to the islands. Located near Banyan Drive and Hilo Bay, the event pairs easily with scenic drives to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park or waterfall hikes along the Hamakua Coast. For more information, visit merriemonarch.com/
Merrie Monarch Festival
April 7–11 / HILO (BIG ISLAND) – Hawaii’s most revered cultural celebration returns for a week of world‑class hula competitions, arts and crafts fairs, and traditional Hawaiian cultural demonstrations. Visitors can witness the prestigious Miss Aloha Hula and group ‘auana (modern) and kahiko (traditional) performances, all deeply rooted in centuries‑old island heritage. Set in Hilo’s lush tropical landscape, this event is both a cultural immersion and a breathtaking spectacle of aloha spirit. For more information, visit https://www.merriemonarch.com
Princeville Night Market
April 12 / PRINCEVILLE (KAUAI) – This lively weekly market showcases local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and live music in a beautiful North Shore setting. Visitors can enjoy island produce, handmade crafts, and entertainment while strolling through one of Kauai’s most scenic communities. It’s a relaxed and authentic way to experience local life and creativity. For more information, visit https://www.princevilleshoppingcenter.com/market
Hapalua Hawaii’s Half Marathon
April 12 – HONOLULU – Runners and spectators line Waikīkī’s palm-shaded avenues for this scenic race organized by the Hawaii Pacific Health. The course winds past Diamond Head and along the Pacific coastline, offering inspiring ocean views at sunrise. Visitors can cheer along the route, then enjoy brunch in Waikīkī or relax at nearby Kapiʻolani Park after the finish. For more information, visit thehapalua.com/
Kauaʻi Brewers Festival
April 18 – LIHUE – Featuring craft beer tastings, live music, and local cuisine, this festival showcases Kauaʻi’s emerging brewing scene. Held outdoors in a relaxed island setting, the event encourages socializing while sampling unique tropical-inspired brews. Visitors can combine the experience with scenic drives along the island’s dramatic coastline. For more information, visit kauaibrewersfestival.com/
30th Annual East Maui Taro Festival
April 18 / HĀNA (MAUI) – This unique cultural celebration honors the importance of taro (kalo) to Hawaiian life with food tastings, music, traditional arts, and storytelling in East Maui. Guests can sample classic Hawaiian taro dishes while learning about agricultural traditions that date back centuries. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this festival offers a truly local experience. For more information, visit https://www.tarofestival.org/
Big Island Chocolate Festival
April 23-25 – KOHALA COAST – Chocolate lovers indulge in tastings, chef competitions, and farm-to-bar experiences highlighting Hawaii-grown cacao. Hosted at luxury resorts along the Kohala Coast, the festival blends gourmet indulgence with oceanfront relaxation. Visitors can tour cacao farms, enjoy fine dining, or explore nearby Hapuna Beach between events. For more information, visit bigislandchocolatefestival.com//
Waikīkī Spam Jam Festival
April 25– HONOLULU – This playful street festival celebrates Hawaii’s love for Spam with creative dishes from local restaurants, live entertainment, and a festive block-party atmosphere. Kalākaua Avenue transforms into a pedestrian-only celebration filled with food booths, crafts, and island music. Travelers can sample everything from Spam musubi to gourmet fusion creations while enjoying ocean views just steps away. For more information, visit spamjamhawaii.com/
Hilo Orchid Show
July 24-26 – HILO – Orchid enthusiasts gather to admire rare and exotic blooms grown in Hawaii’s lush climate. Educational exhibits and plant sales allow visitors to learn about cultivation while bringing home living souvenirs. Nearby Rainbow Falls and the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden offer additional natural beauty. For more information, visit hiloorchidsociety.org/
Kauaʻi Marathon Ohana Festival
September 6 – LIHUE – The Ohana Festival brings together runners and families with live music, fitness events, and local food vendors celebrating Kauaʻi’s active lifestyle. Visitors enjoy the friendly island atmosphere while discovering nearby Kalapaki Beach and scenic coastal trails. The event offers a relaxed way to experience Kauaʻi’s community spirit and natural beauty. For more information, visit thekauaimarathon.com/
