Please note that as with any schedule of upcoming events, the following information is subject to change; always confirm the details before you plan your trip around an event.
March
Prince Kuhio Day Celebrations. Various festivals are held throughout Hawaii to celebrate the birth of Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, who was born on March 26, 1871, and elected to Congress in 1902. Molokai also hosts a 1-day celebration; call tel. 808/553-3876 or go to www.visitmolokai.com to learn more.
May
Outrigger Canoe Season, all islands. From May to September, canoe paddlers across the state participate in outrigger canoe races nearly every weekend. Call tel. 808/383-7798 or go to www.y2kanu.com for this year's schedule of events.
Lei Day Celebrations, various locations on all islands. May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii, celebrated with lei-making contests, pageantry, arts and crafts and music. For a list of Maui events go to www.visitmaui.com/maui/calendar, which includes the Lei Day Brothers Cazimero concert at the Castle Theatre (tel. 808/242-7469).
June
King Kamehameha Celebration, all islands. This state holiday (officially June 11, but celebrated on different dates on each island) features a massive floral parade, hoolaulea (party), and much more. Call tel. 808/667-9194 for Maui events, tel. 808/553-3876 for Molokai events, or go to http://hawaii.gov/dags/king_kamehameha_commission. Most events in 2012 will be held early to mid-June.
July
Lanai Pineapple Festival, Lanai City, Lanai. This festival celebrates Lanai's history of pineapple plantations and ranching, including a pineapple-eating contest, a pineapple-cooking contest, entertainment, arts and crafts, food, and fireworks. Call tel. 808/565-7600 or go to www.gohawaii.com/lanai. First Saturday in July.
August
Admissions Day, all islands. This is a state holiday honoring the day (August 21, 1959) that Hawaii became the 50th state. All state-related facilities are closed. Third Friday in August.
September
Aloha Festivals, various locations on all islands. Parades and other events celebrate Hawaiian culture and friendliness throughout the state. Call tel. 808/878-1888 or go to www.festivalsofaloha.com.
November
Hawaii International Film Festival, various locations throughout the state. This cinema festival with a cross-cultural spin features filmmakers from Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the United States. Call tel. 808/792-1577 or go to www.hiff.org. Late October or early November.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
