Hawaii’s “Big Island’ is not only the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, it is also one of the best places to get a real taste of Hawaiian culture, history, food, and drink. A bunch of marathons and other races are also a big part of the scheduled activities. Here is just a small sampling of coming events.
The Kona Marathon, half-marathon, 10K, and 5K races will run June 6 with 2,000 participants of all ages and abilities.
The King Kamehameha I Celebration June 10-11 honors Hawaii’s first monarch (c. 1758-1819) in both Hilo and 
Kona with a parade and lots of cultural and fun things to do; all part of a statewide tribute to this historic leader, who first united all of the Hawaiian Islands.
The Fourth of July in Hawaii is BIG, with spectacular fireworks displays throughout the Island. Then there’s the Hilo Bay Blast at Hilo Bay, parade and festival celebration at Volcano Village, Kailua-Kona parade, Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race/Benefit, Turtle Independence Day releasing of sea turtles along the Kohala Coast, and Parker Ranch horseraces and rodeo.
The Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival at the Royal Kona Resort is an all-day event that shouldn’t be missed in August.
August 16 is the amazing Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival; a full day of fun at Royal Kona Resort, including a Battle of the BBQ; a Marketplace; a Pool Party with live music by Henry Kapono; and The Mai Tai Mix-off where 20 of the world’s best bartenders will compete for the title of the “World’s Best Mai Tai” and a $17,500 first prize. Call 808/930-3255 or visit donsmaitaifest.com/ for more info.
September 1-5 is the 45th ANNUAL QUEEN LILI’UOKALANI LONG DISTANCE OUTRIGGER CANOE RACES, which welcome more than 2,500 outrigger canoe paddlers for its signature 18-mile long distance race, the world’s largest long distance outrigger canoe race. Other official race events will also be held throughout the weekend.
The Taste of Hilo October 16 showcases up to 40 of the island’s east side chefs, restaurants, and beverage makers in a casual, mid-day foodie experience.
The Ironman World Championship will be held in Kailua-Kona October 8, featuring a grueling 2.4 mile swim, 112-mile bike and a 26.2 mile run.
November 4 -13 Hawaii’s oldest food celebration, the 46th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, features a variety of activities geared for people of all ages, including coffee farm tours and native Hawaiian arts and culture events.
