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 2023.
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2023 Events and Festivities
2023 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 1st, 2 PM - 7 PM; December 2nd, 10 AM - 4 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 Thursday, December 14th
Where: 200 Piopio St, Hilo (Wailoa Center)
More Info: Hawaii Nei Art
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 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd; 8 AM - 12 PM
Where: 78-6831 Ali’i Dr #232, Kailua-Kona
More Info: Keauhou Farmers Market
Christmas with the Chefs
Suppose you’re looking for a way to recover from the culinary onslaught of the food truck festival in Kailua Village. In that case, you’ve got one half-hour to stumble to Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, about a quarter mile away. Here, you’ll find another culinary extravaganza: Christmas With The Chefs. All the good stuff is here - master-crafted plates, local brews, wines, Kona coffee, and dancing to jazz. Find us the hole in that plan!
When: Saturday, December 2nd, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona (Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel)
More Info: Christmas With The Chefs - RSVP
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!
