The holiday season is coming to Hawaii! That means the event calendar is fuller than ever, and the Big Island is no exception.
Here are the most exciting events and festivals coming to the Island of Hawaii in December.
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Updated 2023 Hawaii Visitor Guides
If you're visiting Hawaii soon, be sure to download a copy of one of our updated 2023 Hawaii Visitor Guides. We've updated the packets with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and for those who've been a time or two as well).
2023 Events and Festivities
Events for the Big Island of Hawaii in December 2023 will be posted in the coming weeks. Typically, we'll update this page about six to eight weeks before the month in question. Below, you can review a summary of what happened within the last 12-18 months, as many of these Hawaii events are held annually.
2022 Events and Festivities
2022 Na Makua Invitational Christmas Gift Fair
This year, the annual (and free) Na Makua Invitational is being held at a new location: Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium in Hilo. Expect live performances, delicious food, prizes, and many arts and crafts.
When: December 2nd, December 3rd; 3 PM - 8 PM
Where: 350 Kalanikoa St, Hilo (Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium)
More Info: Na Makua
Hawaii Nei Art Exhibition
This exhibition/contest focuses on the many native species of the Island of Hawaii and runs until Thursday, December 15th. All featured artists are local residents and will be presenting their original works - no prints or copies.
When: Until December 15th; 10 AM - 2 PM
Where: 200 Piopio St, Hilo (Wailoa Center)
More Info: Hawaii Nei Art
Home for the Hilo Days
As the name makes obvious, Home for the Hilo Days is all about ringing in the holiday cheer on the Big Island. The concert fundraiser will be held for 3 consecutive days at the historic Palace Theater in Hilo.
When: December 16th - December 18th
Where: 38 Haili St, Hilo (Palace Theater)
More Info: Palace Theater - Upcoming Events
Jingle Bell Beach Run
Holiday cheer will also come to the Island of Hawaii in the form of exercise - the island's largest 5K run of the year, held in Kailua-Kona on Saturday, December 17th.
When: Saturday, December 17th
Where: Kailua-Kona
More Info: Race Entry
Keauhou Farmers Market
In addition to all the holiday festivities, the Big Island will continue to be one of the best places on Earth for local farmers' markets. This includes the fabled Keauhou Market in the heart of Kailua-Kona.
When: Saturdays, December 3rd, 10th, 17th; 8 AM - 12 PM
Where: 78-6831 Ali’i Dr #232, Kailua-Kona
More Info: Keauhou Farmers Market
Hilo Farmers Market - Big Market Days
For Hilo visitors, the Hilo Farmers Market runs all week long and hosts special “Big Market Days” on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
When: Wednesdays and Saturdays; December 7th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 28th; 7 AM - 3 PM
Where: Kamehameha Ave and Mamo St, Hilo
More Info: Hilo Farmers Market
Volcano Village Farmers Market
When exploring the transfixing town of Volcano, be sure to stop by their local farmers market - which is open every Sunday from 6 to 10 in the morning.
When: Sundays, December 4th, 11th, 18th; 6 AM - 10 AM
Where: 19-4030 Wright Road, Volcano
More Info: Volcano Village Lodge&
Pure Kona Green Market
Lastly, the Pure Kona Green Market in Captain Cook is another great option for shoppers looking to find hyper-fresh, local, organic goods during their December visit to the Big Island.
When: Sundays, December 4th, 11th, 18th; 9 AM - 2 PM
Where: 82-6160 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook
More Info: Pure Kona Green Market Facebook
We hope you find this helpful guide to filling out your Big Island calendar this December. As always, mahalo, and best wishes for your visit!
Updated 2023 Hawaii Visitor Guides
If you're visiting Hawaii soon, be sure to download a copy of one of our updated 2023 Hawaii Visitor Guides. We've updated the packets with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and for those who've been a time or two as well).
