Add to the List: Things to do in August 2018 in Hawaii
From Kauai to Hawaii Island, we highlight our favorite festivals, fairs and local happenings in August.
Whether you’re catching Henry Kapono live on Maui, learning archery on Molokai or attending the 50th anniversary of Oahu’s Byodo-In Temple, there’s so much to do and see in the Islands this August.
Oahu
Made in Hawaii Festival
8/17–8/19
If you’re looking to lighten your wallet and go home with tons of produce, jewelry, apparel, crafts and more, then look no further than this three-day festival that showcases products made in Hawaii. With Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning talent such as Kalani Pea and Napua taking the stage at the Neal Blaisdell Center, even those who aren’t interested in buying can find themselves a good time.
$6, Neal S. Blaisdell Center, 777 Ward Ave., Honolulu, madeinhawaiifestival.com.
Photo by David Croxford
Obon Festival and Byodo-In Temple 50th Anniversary
8/4
The Byodo-In Temple, opened in 1968, is dedicated to the Japanese immigrants who came to Hawaii during the mid-19th century. Take part in its 50th anniversary, as well as its bon dance on the same day, listen to the pounding performances put on by taiko drummers, watch as paper lanterns float gently in the temple’s expansive koi pond and don’t forget to pick up a delicious Japanese bento.
Free, 4 to 9 p.m., Byodo-In Temple, 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, byodo-in.com.
Duke’s Oceanfest
8/18–8/26
When it comes to riding waves and enjoying the ocean, having fun should be a top priority, and no one knew that better than Duke Kahanamoku. With everything from a tandem surfing competition to the wacky Red Bull Hawaiian Party Wave exhibition, the eight-day festival will have something for everyone to check out. And if you want to see some real ruff riders, catch the dog surfing contest on the 23rd. Free, various times and locations, dukesoceanfest.com.
Maui
Maui Calls
8/18
With an emphasis on fun, this gala food and wine fundraiser, put on by the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, is the ideal event to get your glam on. Hosted in the elegant Yokouchi Pavilion, with its translucent sky roof made up of 288 glass panels, be prepared to bid in both a silent and live auction, snack on delectable pupu (appetizers) and hit the dance floor after getting a little rosy on premium wines. $195–$2,250, 6 p.m., Maui Arts & Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului, mauiarts.org.
Hana Cultural Center & Museum Hoolaulea
8/18
Although it might be a bit of a journey, making your way over to the Hana Cultural Center & Museum’s hoolaulea (celebration) is worth the harrowing turns and one-lane bridges. Enjoy Hawaiian music, cultural presentations, food booths and a farmers market all at the Hana Fairgrounds, right below the Hana Ranch Store.
Free, Hana Cultural Center, 4974 Uakea Road, Hana, hanaculturalcenter.org.
Photo by Olivier Koning
Henry Kapono & Friends at Maui Arts & Cultural Center
8/26
What’s better than Henry Kapono? Henry Kapono and his friends, who happen to be some of Hawaii’s top Hawaiian musicians. Coming together with his star-studded crew, including Landon McNamara, Kalapana and Blayne Asing, Kapono and company will perform songs and talk story all night long.
$15–$150, 5 p.m., Maui Arts & Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului, mauiarts.org.
Kauai
Heiva I Kauai
8/4–8/5
Watch as top Tahitian performers dance in fiery competition in both solo and group divisions, contrasting the balmy breeze and tranquil seas of the event’s location, Kapaa Beach Park. If you’re feeling the rhythmic drumbeats and notice yourself swaying your hips and moving along to the music, there’s an audience dance competition, too.
$7, 9 a.m to 5 p.m., Kapaa Beach Park, 4-1604 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa, heivaikauai.com.
Molokai
Molokai Bowhunters 20th Annual State Tournament
8/18
The event is organized by the Molokai Bowhunters Archery Club, which aims to teach the sport of archery in a fun, family environment. Age groups for the tournament range from cub (12 and under) to master senior (over 70). A donation of $5 will get you lunch after the tournament.
$30 for 18+, $15 for 17 and below, registration starts at 7:30 a.m., Kalae Bow Range, molokaibowhunters.com.
Big Island
Volcano Rain Forest Runs
8/18
Offering races ranging from a leg burning half marathon to a more leisurely 5K option, the Big Island course is like no other. You’ll run through back roads of quaint Volcano Village and navigate an exotic rainforest, all the while catching glimpses of majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa in the distance.
$30–$95, various times, Cooper Center, 19-4030 Wright Road, Volcano, volcanorainforestruns.com.
Made in Hawaii Film Festival
8/25
Aiming to promote and support local artists, this daylong film festival will showcase motion pictures shot primarily in Hawaii. After the screening, which is organized into six 90– to 120-minute blocks, the audience will have a chance to meet with the filmmakers and talk story or ask questions about their productions.
$12 for one block, $20 for a full festival pass, Hilo Palace Theater, 38 Haili St, Hilo, mihff.org.
Photo by Aaron Yoshino
10th Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival
8/18
Mai tais are synonymous with having a good, slightly inebriated time, but when there’s $10,000 on the line, it’s time to get serious. And that’s exactly what some of the nation’s best bartenders do as they converge at the Royal Kona Resort. Mixologists are given 10 minutes to prepare, mix and garnish their drinks on stage, with hopes of their original recipe taking home the title of “The World’s Best Mai Tai.”
Free, 11 a.m., Royal Kona Resort, 75-5852 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, donsmaitaifest.com.
