Not that you need a reason to visit Hawaii, between the nice weather and friendly atmosphere, there’s enough inspiration as is. But, as you plan your trip to this tropical location, perhaps you might want to consider some of the big festivals that happen at the different islands each year. And here for you today, to pencil your stay around, are 5 festivals in Hawaii worth checking out: Aloha Festivals – September 2014Representing the largest Hawaiian cultural celebrations in the United States, the Aloha Festivals are a month long celebration that is all things culture, history, and tradition of Hawaii. If you can only check out one or two events, the best bets are the 62nd Annual Aloha Festivals Waikiki Ho’olaule’a where thousands of people flock to the streets for a stupendous block party (September 20th), or the 68th Annual Aloha Festival Floral parade for a lively display of the Hawaiian culture (September 27th). Kona Coffee Cultural Festival – November 7-16, 2014
For 44 years, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival has brought enough culture, good times, and great food to the big island, and this year will be no exception. With over 40 scheduled events including art shows, cupping competitions, and to wrap it up, a “Celebrate Kona Day” celebration, this ten day event promises to deliver good weather and good times. Honolulu Marathon and Race Day Walk – December 14, 2014
The Honolulu Marathon is the third largest marathon race in the United States. And with no cap to the number of entries (last year there was 30,000), and no time limit, this race does get a lot of entries. The nice weather might have something to do with it as well. But for whatever reason you run, consider Honolulu to be the next big race on your checklist. And if you’re not a runner, the event which includes fireworks, a friendly scene, and the same nice weather, is a fun event just to park a beach chair and check out from the sidelines. Honolulu Festival – March 6-8, 2015
Join the thousands of visitors that flock to the island of Honolulu next year to experience some Pacific Harmony. Featuring 100’s of local groups, organizations, and musicians, this festival is all about celebrating the rich culture found on each side of the island. From acrobatics to traditional Hawaiian performances, there is a bit of everything for anyone interested. Mark your calendars, schedule your vacation around it, and be prepared to get a rich taste of the Hawaiian culture. OluKai Ho’olaule’a SUP Race – May 2-3, 2015
Ho'olaul'a means "celebration" and that's what OluKai plans to do with some of the world's best SUP and outrigger canoe racers. This 8-mile long Downwind race starts at Kanaha Beach Park, in Kahului and ends with traditional luau, Hawaiian games and a good time. Check out this POV video for an idea of the race. Oahu – 45th Annual Ukulele Festival – July 19, 2015
Plan ahead for the Ukulele Festival next year and prepare to jam it out amongst the island’s best ukulele players. Great for families, better for fans, this is one event that not just the ukulele fans will enjoy, but also anyone who likes to have a little fun in the sun. Queen Lili’uokalani Canoe Race - Labor Day Weekend (September 5-7), 2015
Started in 1972, the annual Queen Lili’uokalani Canoe Race is the largest long-distance outrigger canoe race in the world. It starts from Kailua Pier and ends in Hōnaunau. Over 2,500 paddlers from all over the Hawaiian Islands, and all over the world, gather for three day event.
