Big Island Winter Events
The holidays are finished and somehow we still have over nine weeks left in winter. Need an escape from the post-December doldrums? January and February don’t have to belong to Jack Frost. Head down to Hawaii and check out these Big Island winter events.
Spotlight: 30th Annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
Depending on where you live, you might associate winter with dreary skies and leafless trees. But here in the tropics, we’re preparing to enjoy cherry blossoms.
Organized by the County of Hawaii Department of Parks and Recreation, the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival celebrates Japanese history, culture, and tradition. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, the festival will also feature food, music, crafts, and a farmers’ market.
And don’t miss the hands-on demonstrations! Learn about traditional Japanese origami, mochi pounding, and tea ceremonies. Plus, enjoy crafts and performances from visiting artists from Japan.
When: February 4th, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: Church Row Park, Upcountry Kamuela
More Info: Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival or call (808) 961-8796
Hualalai Hosts the Mitsubishi PGA Electric Championship
Whether you’re a pro at putt-putt or the 18-hole, you won’t want to miss this PGA tournament. The tournament features seven World Golf Hall of Fame members.
Overlooking Waiakea waters, the Jack Nicklaus-designed course at Hualalai Resort winds amongst verdant fairways and black lava. It’s one of the many golf clubs that make the Big Island the golf capital of Hawaii.
When: January 19th - 21st
Where: Hualalai Resort Golf Course (100 Kaupulehu Dr, Kailua-Kona)
More Info: Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai
Panaewa Stampede Rodeo
Want something a little bit more rambunctious? Head over to Hilo for a Hawaiian-style rodeo.
This event will feature paniolo (cowboy) competitions and demonstrations, as well as music, crafts, and food.
When: February 18th & 19th, schedule coming soon!
Where: Panaewa Equestrian Center (800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo)
More Info: Panaewa Stampede Rodeo or call (808) 937-1004
SOKO Artists Studio Tour
The South Kona Artists Collective is a group of local, professional artists who make our already beautiful island even more beautiful. The SOKO Artists Studio Tour gives you a chance to meet them and their art.
This self-guided tour features 21 artists at 12 locations from Keauhou, Kona, and down to Captain Cook. It’s a perfect opportunity to see the local area and browse art in various mediums: fiber arts, ceramics, printmaking, painting, and more.
When: February 25th & 26th, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily
Where: 12 locations throughout Kona (see map)
More Info: South Kona Artists Collective
Upgrade Your Winter Hibernation
If you’re someone who believes winters are for hibernating, I see you. Consider this your invitation to hibernate here – Hawaii-style, soaking up the sun as you listen to the waves crash.
On the leeward side of the Big Island, Kona tends to stay sunny and dry. Daytime temperatures range from the low 70s to mid 80s.
Sounds a lot better than arctic blasts and bomb cyclones, right? Give me a call when you’re ready to upgrade your winter hibernation.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.