Da Haps

HAWAI’I ISLAND EVENTS 2008

September 19 – Democratic “Grand Rally”

Featuring appearance by Barack Obama’s sister Maya Soetoro-Ng. At Mooheau Park -Hilo Bayfront- 231 Kamehameha Avenue. Click here to RSVP. More info: Hilo Bay Oceanfront Contact Al Beeman (808.895.1813). Did someone say free hot dogs and chili?

September 27 – 15th Annual KWXX Hilo Hoolaulea
This big evening of aloha again comes to downtown Hilo and includes entertainment by the best of Island musicians on three giant stages along with food, arts, and crafts. 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Call 935-5461.

September 28 – He Hali‘a Aloha No Ka Queen Lili‘uokalani Festival
This festival celebrates the birthday of Hawaii’s beloved Queen Lili‘uokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii. It is held in the beautiful surroundings of the Queen’s historical namesake, Japanese-style gardens in central Hilo. Hula performances by worldwide hula halau (schools). 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Call (808) 961-8706 for more information.

October 18 – “OBAKE” – Ghost stories
Celebrate Halloween local-style with an evening of music, food and spooky obake or ghost stories from several local Big Island residents. At Akiko’s Bed & Breakfast in Wailea Village at the 15-mile marker on Hwy. 19 on the Hamakua Coast from 7 – 8:30 p.m. $10, $8 children under 12 years. `For more information call (808) 963-6422 or visit www.alternative-hawaii.com/akik

November 7 – Black & White Night
Downtown Hilo’s biggest strolling party with free live jazz music venues, a treasure hunt through town, stores opening late with specials, sales, free food samples, author and artist receptions. Everyone dresses in black and white, some dress down in shorts and T-shirts, some dress up in gowns and suits to enter the “Best Dressed Black & White Contest” for cash prizes. Free! Information call (808) 933-9772 or amoon@bigisland.com

November 8 – Annual Drum and Percussion Festival
An exciting evening of world percussion by local artists featuring diverse traditional & contemporary percussion performances from Hawai`i, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, Africa and more! 6 – 9 p.m. Hilo Palace Theater. Ticket fee. Call (808) 333-2730 or visit www.bareandcore.org.

November 22 – Bay Concert
Enjoy music by Na Hoku award winners Sista Robi Kahakalau and HAPA as comedian Frank De Lima keeps the laughs coming. Sponsored by The Kohala Center, the concert benefits restoration and preservation of one of Hawaii’s most beautiful coastal marine venues – Kahaluu Bay in Kona. 5 – 8 p.m.; Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Hawaii Lawn, (808) 895-1010 or visit www.kohalacenter.org

PAST EVENTS…

August 16 – International Haari Boat Festival

This new festival celebrates the cultures of Hawai`i and Okinawa with Haari boat races, an open market with Okinawan food, a country store, cultural exchanges, a golf tournament and a luau on Saturday night (think the luau was canceled – but check their web site for more info). Wailoa State Park in Hilo, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Call (808) 895-0994 or visit www.haariboatfestival.com.

August 16 – 10,000 Gardens Project

“Now is the time to grow food and plant 10,000 gardens … from little things, big things grow.” 2 to 6 PM Street Fair: Free food, drink & entertainment on Haili street. Free seeds, plants and gardening classes. Meet the farmers & gardeners. 6:30 to 9 PM @ The Palace Theater: An evening of music, theater, comedy, community leadership & community issues. Sponsored by the “citizens for Moore Committee” (Jasper Moore running for Mayor – he may be reached at 808 443 9079 or email mooreformayor@gmail.com). Moore is all about less dependency on oil and imports and taking advantage of Hawai’i/local resources – it’s a good start in showing his priorities and getting the community to work together.

August 16 – Paniolo Family Day (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration – check Paniolo Preservation Society site for more info)

A day for kids and adults with games, craft demonstrations and history and protocol of pau riding with demonstrations of pau wrapping. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the legendary Anna Ranch on Route 19 in Waimea. Free.

August 16 – Kalapana Comeback
Spend some time with the welcoming ohana in the Big Island’s Kalapana district on this Hawaiian cultural day featuring entertainment, interactive crafts and other demonstrations, made-in-Hawaii vendor booths and tasty foods. Free. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Kikala – Keokea subdivision off Highway 137 between mile markers 20 and 21. For more information call 965-1976.

August 16 – John Keawe Slack Key Concert
Hawaii slack-key guitar maestro, the Big Island’s John Keawe, along with wife Hope, perform their uniquely Hawaiian music style at the East Hawaii Cultural Center, 141 Kalakaua Street in Hilo. 7:30 p.m. $18. Call (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org.

August 16-17, 2008
ESTABLISHMENT DAY HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL – KAWAIHAE
The annual cultural festival held at the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historical ceremony will be canceled because of the extensive damage from the Oct. 15, 2006 earthquakes. The men and women who are participating in the royal court have volunteered to work on the rock wall instead. Park Superintendent Daniel Kawaiaea Jr. invites the public to join the to participate in the cultural demonstrations and workshop activities in Pelekane (royal courtyard) located near the beach below Pu’ukohola Heiau with only one stipulation: that each visitor learns at least one craft before leaving the area to help preserve a part of the Hawaiian culture. Parking will be on the coral flats south of Kawaihae Harbor. More than 20 hands-on arts and craft workshops and demonstrations will be available, including lei haku, ame lei wili (ancient lei making), hana hu (making spinning tops), hana kapa kuiki (quilting), Hawaiian games, kahili (feather standards), ulanalauhala (lauhala weaving), holo wa’a (canoe rides) and more. Local musicians will play songs of Hawaii. Bring water and lunch if planning to stay the entire day. It is recommended that comfortable clothing be worn and the use some type of sunscreen. PNHP is located about a mile south of Kawaihae on the Kohala Coast. Call (808) 882-7218 or visit www.nps.gov.puhe.

August 20-26, 2008
HULA AND CHANT INTENSIVE WITH KUMU HULA RAYLENE KAWAIAE’A – KOHALA COAST
These seven days on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii will give you an opportunity to experience the spiritual aspects that are the foundation of hula and chant as well as learn basic chants and hula. This is a rare opportunity to spend time with one of the revered kumu hula of Hawaii who has the ability to take you into the depths of your own soul through these experiences. For more information, call 808/959-2258, email contact@healinginparadise.org or visit www.healinginparadise.or

August 22 – HOT CLUB de Hilo
Back by popular demand, John Nussbaum, Jerry Broughton, Richard Schutte, Hal Glatzer and Jerry Dicey play jazz and swing in the 1930’s – 40’s style of the Quintet of the Hot Club of France that featured gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt and jazz violinist Stephan Grappelli. Enjoy dancing on a really large – wooden! – dance floor. The East Hawaii Cultural Center is at 141 Kalakaua St., across from Kalakaua Park, Hilo. All tickets are $10 at the door. Call (808) 961-5711 or visit www.ehcc.org.

August 22 – Waiomina Centennial Celebration Opening Cocktail Reception (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration)

Come to the Historic Chock Inn Store, now the site of Daniel Thiebaut Restaurant, and commemorate the day Waimea paniolo Ikua Purdy surprised the cowboy world with his rodeo victory at the Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Wear your boots and hats. Silent and live auctions. Pupus, beer & wine included. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. $45 per person.

August 23 – Old Hawaii on Horseback (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration)

This all day paniolo event in Waimea features crafts by local artisans at the Parker Ranch Shopping Center and Waimea Shopping Center; “Old Hawaii on Horseback,” from 10 a.m. – noon, a costumed reenactment of various events key to the history of Hawaii first created by renown Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske, a Waimea ranch owner and cowgirl. 8;30am – 12 noon; $15; $10 for seniors, students, keiki. Also later that day, from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. a Hawaiian cowboy-style concert at YMCA Park with Melveen Leed, Jerry Santos and other entertainers. $30; $25 for seniors, students, keiki. You can purchase tickets here!

August 23, 2008 – ANNUAL TASTE OF LIFE BENEFIT
The 9th Annual Taste of Life fundraiser event will be held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort, starting at 6:00 pm. As usual, the event promises to offer the best of foods and spirits from some of the best local chefs and purveyors. Also, you can be sure to enjoy great entertainment and participate in one of the best art auctions seen on the island. Tickets will go on sale in July. For more information, call 331-8177, email hihaf@hihaf.org or visit the website at www.hihaf.org

August 23, 2008
STINGING NETTLE CATERPILLAR UPDATE – KONA OUTDOOR CIRCLE
You’re invited to Kona Outdoor Circle on Saturday, August 23rd, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, to get an update from the state entomologist on the stinging nettle caterpillar. These pests are bad news – get their stinging nettle on you, and it’s painful and long lasting. They’ve been spotted in Kona in Kamani Trees and Kuakini Makai, both makai of Kuakini Highway. Kamani Trees is below the intersection of Lako and Kuakini, and Kuakini Makai is makai of Kuakini across from the blue-roofed office buildings north of Kuakini and Lako. Community citizens will have to be on the alert. The state will explain treatment/eradication options. Meet at Kona Outdoor Circle, 76-6280 Kuakini Highway, just north of and makai of the intersection of Kuakini and Lako Streets. Time: at Kona Outdoor Circle Educational Center. Free to the public. For more information, call 329-7286 or email hotlava2@hawaii.rr.com

AUGUST 24, 2008 – Trail Ride, Kahua and Ponoholo Ranches Activities & BBQ
Join an authentic riding experience and participate in ranch activities at Kahua Ranch in North Kohala. The afternoon activities are followed by a BBQ dinner and entertainment. There is an additional cost for ATV and Wagon Rides. Advance reservation required. Trail ride 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Barbecue: 1:30 – 4:30 PM. Cost – $125/person for ride and barbecue. Barbecue only $75/person. Horse rental arrangements must be made directly with the provider. (borrowed paniolo beachboy image by Mike Field – check out his beautiful work at MikeFieldart.com).

August 24, 2008
HULIHE’E PALACE MONTHLY SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES AND VILLAGE STROLL – KAILUA-KONA
Free Hawaiian Music Concert featuring the Merrie Monarchs men’s glee club and dancing by the halau of Etua Lopez on the Palace’s South Lawn at 4 p.m., presented by the Daughters of Hawaii. Bring your own beach mat or chair. AFTER the Concert, stroll thru Kailua Village, enjoy outdoor cafe’s and restaurants, local musicians & artists. Alii Drive will be closed to traffic from 3:30-7pm. Special kama’aina pricing at participating restaurants & merchants. Stroll sponsored by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast, Kailua Village Business Improvement District, and Kailua Village Merchants Association. For more info about the Palace concert, email hulihee@ilhawaii.net. For info about the Village Stroll, email info@kona-kohala.com

August 28, 2008
MAYORAL CANDIDATE FORUM – KAILUA-KONA
Who gets your vote for Mayor on September 20? Come to a professional, moderated, nonpartisan candidate forum on Thursday, August 28 at Kealakehe High Cafeteria. All mayoral candidates invited. The moderator will be Sherry Bracken of Hawaii Public Radio and host of KKOA and LAVA105.3’s Island Issues. Ono grinds on sale at 5pm, with music from Konabob and Shirley Stoffer. The Forum will start promptly at 6, go till 8. Submit questions at the Forum, or in advance to sherryb@lava105.com or fax to 329-8564.

August 30, 2008
AUNTY DIANA AKI CD RELEASE CONCERT – KEAUHOU
On Saturday, August 30th from 7-9pm, Aunty Diana Aki will celebrate the release of her CD “Kalihi” with a concert and talk story at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort. Aunty Diana, best known as the “Songbird of Milol’i” will perform songs from her new CD and share stories of her life and music. A performance of original hula composed especially for this occasion will be performed by Ka Pa Hula Na Wai Iwi Ola under the direction of Kumu Keala Ching. Doors open at 6:30, the concert begins at 7pm. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort or at Blue Ginger Gallery in Kainaliu, across from the Aloha Theatre. Call 322-3441 for more information or email jr.lyle@hawaiiantel.net

Opens August 30, 2008 – BLACK HOLES at Imi’loa
Yet another interesting offering available at this innovative astronomy center. Narrated by Academy-Award nominated actor Liam Neeson, this presentation blending science and visualization lets you fly through wormholes, witness the death of a star and a simulated flight to a super massive black hole lurking at the center of the Milky Way Galaxy. Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday. Cost: $17.50; free to members, discounts to kama’aina. Call (808) 969-9704 or visit www.imiloahawaii.org

August 30 and 31, 2008 (Labor Day Weekend)
MALAMA PUNALU’U CONCERT – NA’ALEHU PARK, KA’U
Free concert in support of the preservation of the special Punalu’u area of the Big Island, featuring many wonderful Hawaiian musicians. Beginning at 10:00 AM at Na’alehu Park & Ball Fields. Live music with multi Na Hoku Hanohano Award Winner Amy Hanaiali’i Gilliom, Grammy winner Ledward Ka’apana, Eddie Kamae, Mike Ka’awa, Analu Aina, Sugah Daddy, A Tribute to Uncle George Na’ope, Darren Benitez, Manoa DNA, Braddah Smitty, Ka’u, Kekuhi Kanahele, Darlene Ahuna, Kanaka Pila, Diana Aki, Punalu’u Boys and many others. Also performing at the festival will be some of the best in Hawaiian hula. Plus community booths, craft booths, local food vendors, raffles, and water slide and train ride for the keikis. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, but they say please NO coolers (it’s a drug and alcohol-free event – meaning, drink it at your car I guess). 929-8334 for more info.

August 30/31 – Parker Ranch Round-up Club Rodeo (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration)

Enjoy an exciting day of rodeo sponsored by the Parker Ranch employees and held at the Park Ranch Rodeo Grounds. Small fee.

August 30 – An Evening at Puuopelu, Black and White Ball (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration)

This formal dress evening is held at the lavish, historic home of the late Parker Ranch owner Richard Smart. A fundraising event for the Paniolo Preservation Society with entertainment by Jay Larrin and Richard Solmssen, silent and live auctions. 5:30 – 10 p.m. $300 for the hoity-toity folks in Waimea that can afford such things (I say if you’ve got the extra dough, donate it to the Waimea Women’s Center in Waimea instead – click here for North Hawai’i Community Hospital and make sure to specify this your donation is for WWC!).

August 30-31, 2008
34TH ANNUAL PARKER RANCH ROUND-UP CLUB RODEO FUNDRAISER
This exciting two-day event is held annually at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea as a fundraiser to provide scholarships for school-age children of Parker Ranch employees. Ticket purchases in advance at the Parker Ranch Store (808-885-5669) or at the gate. Children 10 & under free. Time: Noon – 3pm at Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena, Waimea, Cost: $5 in advance/$6 at the gate, 10 & under free. For more information, call 808-885-5669, email info@parkerranch.com or visit www.parkerranch.com

August 30-31, 2008
QUEEN LILI’UOKALANI LONG DISTANCE CANOE RACES
The world’s largest long distance canoe race, attended by paddlers from all over the world. After the race on day 1, there is a torchlight parade down Kailua’s Alii Drive followed by a dance. After the race on day 2, the awards ceremonies are held in the afternoon along with a luau, and entertainment. The public is invited to purchase tickets to the luau and festivities. Call: (808) 324-1541 for more info. There will be a 3-day crafts fair conducted by award-winning paddling team and local favorites, Kona’s Kai Opua Canoe Club, at the “turn-around” near the Pier during the events.

August 31, 2008
ANNUAL HAWAII SLACK KEY GUITAR FESTIVAL – KEAUHOU, KONA
This annual festival which features the greats of slack key guitar, will be held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, from 1-6pm. Food and drink will be available for purchase; no outside food or beverages allowed. WEAR A HAT; BRING AN UMBRELLA FOR SHADE. Visit www.slackkeyfestival.com for details.

September 1 – Cowgirls of the Pacific (part of the Waiomina Centennial Celebration)

A brunch and fashion show with paniolo and Hawaiian attire by local designers and entertainment by Darlene Ahuna. Daniel Thiebaut Restaurant in Waimea. 11 a.m.

July 18-20 – “A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING” BENEFIT – ALOHA THEATRE, KAINALIU

The Arc of Kona and Hawaii Performing Arts Festival present an evening of Rogers and Hammerstein favorites, and more…Howard Dicus, host of KGMB TV will be hosting. Proceeds will benefit both organizations. Tickets are $40, available by calling 808/323-2626 or visiting www.arcofkona.org or www.hawaiiperformingartsfestival.org

July 20 – Volcano Forest Work Day

Residents and visitors are invited to participate in this monthly outing to remove alien weed species and help restore one of the last remaining native ‘ohi‘a and koa forests in the Volcano Village area. The day includes an informative guided walk on the Niaulani Nature Trail.
9 a.m – Noon. Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. (808) 967-8222 or www.volcanoartcenter.org.

July 26th Annual Kilauea Volcano Runs

Choose from the 26.2-mile Volcano Marathon, 10-mile Rim Run, 5-mile Kilauea Caldera Run or 5-mile non-competitive Kilauea Caldera Walk, all at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. A unique sports event and experience! Call (808) 969-7400, email race@volcanoartcenter.org, or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

May 10th – Pahoa Springtime Jamm and Battle of the Bands

May 15th-18th
Rebirth 2008 – The egg is laid
Official Burning Man Regional and to date the biggest event Ka Pilina produces each year. Tickets at www.kapilina.org start at $40 (there are 200 tickets at each tier price range, so get yours in advance). Also available at CD Wizard Hilo, HI Phone: 969-4800; Kanaka Kava (Coconut Grove Marketplace) Kailua-Kona

SURF FLICK SUMMER TOUR: Famed surfographer Bill Ballard has a new flick out – this one on Matt “Archy” Archibald. They’re still working out the Hawaii dates (including Big Island at the Palace Theater), but for now this is the schedule for the West Coast tour….

May 15-18 – BIG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL at Waikoloa Beach Resort
“Talk Story” film festival celebrates independent narrative filmmakers and their films. One indoor theater for daytime films and two outdoor venues for evening films (family and general audiences) will bring 58 films to the Big Island this year from Hawaii and international filmmakers. Social food & beverage events, entertainment, and films all wrapped in Aloha. Tickets from $5 with Kama’aina discounts every night. Best of the Fest with Brother Noland concert to kick off the audience choice short and feature film on Sunday 5/18 begins at 5pm at the Queens Gardens – the new amphitheater at Waikoloa Beach Resort. Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM at Queens MarketPlace & Kings Shops, Waikoloa Beach Resort. Cost: $5 to $50 for the Awards Brunch. For information call 808/557-5200 direct, 808/883-0394 office, email bigislandff@aol.com or visit BigIslandFilmFestival.com

May 18 – Tsunami Talk Story Festival
Called “The Good Life in Waiakea,” this year’s fundraiser brings to life earlier days of Hilo’s oceanfront district prior to the tsunamis that struck the town in 1946 and 1960. Survivor stories will be shared by master storyteller/actress Kathy “Tita” Collins and Chris Harrison. This area is now home to famous Banyan Drive, resort hotels, Queen Lili‘uokalani Gardens and a golf course. 6 – 9 p.m., Sangha Hall. $25 includes dinner. (808) 935-0926 or www.tsunami.org.

May 24, 25, & 26 – THIRD ANNUAL HILO INTER-TRIBAL POWWOW

9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Wailoa River Park in Hilo. Monday there will be a Veterans’ Honoring Ceremony and the colors will be retired at 4 pm. Grand Entry is at 10 am all three days. This celebration of Native American culture through music, dancing, traditional foods and traditional arts and crafts is free and open to everyone. There will also be storytelling, music, demonstrations and free hands-on craftmaking offered for children. Native American tribe representatives, dancers and drummers will be present from the mainland and Canada. Visit the Hilo PowWow website at www.hilopowwow.com for more details, or email info@hilopowwow.com.

June 21, 2008
THE 6th ANNUAL HAWAII ISLAND SEED EXCHANGE
The Seed Exchange will take place at Bishop Museum’s Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook from 8am to 12:30pm. This annual event is for all farmers, gardeners, and “would be” gardeners who are interested in exchanging and receiving seed, cuttings, and keiki of food crops that have been successfully grown on Hawaii Island. This yearly festival promotes the concept of “Food Self-Sufficiency” for Hawaii Island, and is a chance for farmers and gardeners to come together and share the successes of their farms & gardens with the community, to network, and to share in educational presentations. For more information contact Nancy Redfeather at 322-2801 or email nancyredfeather@yahoo.com.

June 21, 2008
HAWAIIAN MUSIC CONCERT – HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
An evening of traditional Hawaiian music featuring the sweet falsetto singing styling and sassy hula ‘auana (contemporary hula) of talented Hawai’i island musicians, singers, and dancers Stanceford Kaina & Leo Nahenahe O Pohai Kealoha. Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, 7:30 p.m. $15 adults/$13 seniors, 65 & up or children 12 & under ($2 more at the door). For more info, call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

June 21, 2008
HAWAII ISLAND PRIDE – 1ST ANNUAL GAY PRIDE FESTIVAL/BENEFIT
A community Event/Fundraiser, from 2:00-8:00pm, honoring “Strength & Unity Through Diversity”. To be followed by a Candlelight Walk. FREE Admission (donations accepted). All proceeds go to Hawaii Island HIV/Aids Foundation. Featuring Entertainment, Vendors, Dancing, Activities for all ages and Information Booths! King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Luau Grounds, Kailua-Kona. For more information, call 808-557-4668 or email volunteer@hawaiiislandpride.com or visit www.hawaiiislandpride.com

June 27-29, 2008
LOMI LOMI WEEKEND WITH PAPA K – HILO
This three day workshop in the basics of lomi lomi massage will be taught by Papa K Kepilino, who was trained from the age of 6 in lomi lomi. He was also taught the Breath of Ha by his grandfather. This is a traditional healing method used to mend the body and heal from long distances. This class will include basic instruction in the lima maka, “seeing fingers,” technique of lomi lomi. This is a very gentle and intuitive form of lomi lomi. Cost: $350. For more information, call: 808/959 2258, email contact@healinginparadise.org or visit www.healinginparadise.org

June 28, 2008
ANNUAL HO’OLAULE’A CELEBRATION AND PARADE – NA’ALEHU
“Long Live Hula” is the theme of this free celebration in Na’alehu, featuring four hours of performances by Big Island hula halau beginning at 10am at Na’alehu Park. The hula will follow the Parade, which takes place from 9-10am, starting from the Na’alehu Hongwanji. Radio personality Kahikina will be the MC for the event, and there will be arts and crafts booths, lucky number drawings throughout the day, and food for sale. Highlights will be Ray Fonseca’s hula halau with music by Cyril Pahinui to be followed by a performance by Cyril, and a performance by Keoki Kahumoku. Music by local bands will begin around 2pm, and the evening will wind up with a performance by popular band Ka’u from 7 till 9pm. Keiki can play games, enjoy the keiki carnival, participate in the dunking booth, and many other activities. Na’alehu Clubhouse will host Kupuna Bingo from noon till 4pm, and a drug and alcohol-free dance for teens will take place from 5-8pm. Call Judy Gardner for more info, at 443-1193.

June 28-29, 2008
PU’UHONUA O HONAUNAU NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK ANNUAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Annual major cultural festival in a beautiful historic setting, from 9am-3pm. Storytellers, canoe builders, carvers and weavers will share their skills both days. Hula followed by a traditional Hawaiian food tasting and hukilau (traditional Hawaiian community fishing event) on Sunday. Call 328-2288 for more info.

2008 * The Sierra Club
The Sierra Club has many outings/ volunteering opportunities of the cultural/environmental variety, so check their Hawai’i Chapter web site for more info…

May 3-7, 2008
BHAKTI YOGA WITH SRIPAD BV TRIDANDI MAHARAJA – PUNA & HILO
Evenings of Bhakti Yoga with Sripad BV Tridandi Maharaja, a devoted disciple of Sri Srimad Bhaktivedanta Narayana Maharaja. Ecstatic kirtan, talk, & a delicious vegetarian feast at the Pahoa Yoga Shala on Sat. May 3rd at 6pm; Hilo Temple, May 4th at 5:30 pm; Orchidland, May 5th at 6pm; Kapoho Beach Lots, May 6 Cost: Free to the public. For more information, call Lakshmi at 808 769-1523 or email leenadeva108@yahoo.co

March 1, 2008

HOT TUNA, Palace Theater
These guys are legends. I’ve only seen Jorma (founding member Jefferson Airplane, R&R Hall of Famer) doing acoustic with Casady (Jefferson Airplane/Starship, foremost rock bass guitarist in world, played with Jimi, Jerry, Crosby…), but amazing, intense shit. Save up all the money you’d waste on lame Marley fests for the next few years (this year NO beer garden as had been promised, NO Alpha Blondy…) – cost is $45 in advance. It’ll be worth it.

March 2, 2008 – Imiloa Birthday Bash – Free Admission

A day full of activities including guided tours, special planetarium sky shows every 30 minutes, and a grand prize drawing give-away of a large, inflatable Earth Ball, are all part of the fun at `Imiloa Astronomy Center on Sunday, March 2, as the Center celebrates it second year birthday with a free day for the community. The Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.and activities take place all day long.

March 6, 2008 – Imiloa (and every Thursday) • 3D Hitchhikers Exploration of the Universe. This Thursday evening planetarium program, “A 3D Hitchhikers Exploration of the Universe,” employs the new 3D stereoscopic projection system recently installed in the `Imiloa planetarium. Shawn Laatsch, `Imiloa’s planetarium manager, hosts the evening presentation as participants “fly” out into space on a unique and engaging tour through the Universe. This show is offered weekly on Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm through the end of March. Doors open at 5:30, and the Center’s popular Science on a Sphere exhibit and the `Imiloa Museum Store will be open. The exhibit hall will not be open to the public. The Sky Garden Restaurant at `Imiloa is open for dinner starting at 5:30 pm for these Thursday evening programs.

April 1-4, 2008 – Imiloa • Merrie Monarch: Hula Workshops & Demonstrations

Imiloa is partnering with the Merrie Monarch Festival to offer four days of free hula-related workshops and demonstrations for guests to enjoy during the popular week-long festival and competition. Special programs are also being offered in Japanese. Learn about the history and cultural significance of the hula and its practitioners. Check their web site for more info.

February 16, 2008
6th ANNUAL HILO CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL
This free community festival begins at 9 a.m. at the Kress Building on Kamehameha Avenue just one short block away from Kalakaua Park in historic downtown Hilo with Lion Dancers offering traditional blessings along the street. The Lions parade up to the park to open the Festival with thousands of firecrackers at 10 a.m. Till 3 p.m., Asian arts, crafts, product and international food purveyors will man tents filled with the sounds, smells and sights celebrating the Year of the Rat. Performances, cooking and cultural demonstrations, and displays illustrate the Chinese influence on Hawaii’s people and culture. Info: (808) 933-9772 or email amoon@bigisland.com

February 14-18, 2008
PICKIN’ IN PAHOA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Enjoy bluegrass, folk and old time acoustic music at The Shire, Puna’s premier outdoor gathering place and campground, just two miles from Pahoa town. Bring your instrument and join in the fun at Hawaii’s first Bluegrass Festival. Suggested donation is just $10 a day including music and camping. All day and all evening. Free to the public (suggested donation $10 a day). For more information, call 808/217-9647 or email this.elf@gmail.com

February 15, 2008
AN EVENING OF CHINESE CULTURE – HILO
The historic Palace Theater in downtown Hilo opens the Hilo Chinese New Year Festival with a display of Chinese culture through dance, music and fashion including Big Island Shaolin Arts Lion Dance exhibition. After blessing several downtown businesses, the lions offer a special blessing on Haili Street fronting the theater to open the evening’s festivities at 7 p.m. $12 general admission, children ages 16 & under free. Info: (808) 933-9772 or email amoon@bigisland.com

February 9 – Sat 4:30-6:30 * Barack Obama Organization meeting @ Waikea High School Library, 155 W. Kawili St. more info: 808/253-8117

February 9 – Saturday * Bob Marley Fest

February 9 – Saturday * Poho’iki Paka Opening/Blessing

Music, food, party (and hopefully surf) at Poho’iki Beach to celebrate the official opening of the park. Come, bring da kids, enjoy! Not positive but from what I was told, starting this weekend, you can also purchase the camping permits and camp there – but the online site to purchase permits shows there are none (for Isaac Hale) available til September 1st. (!?) You can call the County of Hawaii – Department of Parks and Rec to see what’s up – 961-8311 (M-F 7:45am – 4:30pm)

And FYI – there’s a surf contest there on Sunday.

December 28th, 2007 • REVO 2.0 [21 Kalanianaole Ave, Hilo]

Okay, my lil sis is putting on another REVO HILO event. fine art * photography * film * fashion. Last event raised $6,000! – and again, all proceeds go to the Grace of God Orphanage in Malawai, Africa. Cheap $5 entrance fee – but bring extra and buy some art – support the cause: the revolution of love. P.S. Sis also just so happens to be one of the best undiscovered photographers – check her out! Plus if you need any photogs done, she’s only back in Hilo short time! (check out our “Start a Revo[lution]” article for more info)

December 29th, Saturday 8am -2pm • Annual Mochi Pounding for New Year [Akiko's Buddhist Bed and Breakfast, Wailea]

“Join us in our quiet little village of Wailea for the 10th annual mochi-tsuki celebration in making traditional rice cakes the old-fashioned way. The oldtimers share their stories of plantation era times and everyone takes their turn at pounding the glutinous sticky rice for good luck. Fire building starts at 6 a.m. to steam the rice. Event goes from 8am to 2 pm with hearty local style lunch for $5. Great Fun!!” Call: Miss Akiko (808) 963-6422 or email msakiko@hawaii.rr.com.

December 31st, Monday 6pm – midnight • 7th Annal New Year’s Contra Celebration [YWCA of Hawaii Island, 145 Ululani St, Hilo]
“Music and dancing for all ages and levels of experience! Contra, International Folk, and Swing dancing. Irish, Scottish, Bluegrass, multi-ethnic music to keep you moving throughout the evening. Games, prizes, and food from 6:00 pm to midnight!” $10 per person/$25 family rate. Everyone welcome. Call: Cindy (808) 938-7310.

December 7/8, 2007 – Groundation

One of the most anticipated shows, Groundation returning to Hawai’i.

• Friday at the New Gymnasium, University of Hawaii

• Saturday at the Kona Bowl

November 27, 2007 – Oktoberfest

“The Big Island celebrates German-style in this always-fun evening of polka music, costume contests, live entertainment, door prizes, silent auction, “chicken dancing,” and of course lots of Bavarian cuisine and other culinary delights from local chefs. At Daniel Thiebaut’s Restaurant and Beer Gardens in Waimea, 6 – 9 p.m. Tickets $45, $50 at the door. Call (808) 885-5565.”

November 10, 2007 – 12noon – midnight • $35 advance tickets

The First Anual Puna Chocolate Festival – Sponsored by Baraka Organic Foods, Monkey Fish, East Side Yoga Shala, Island Naturals, Namaste, Sustainable Island Products. Tickets include: Chocolate samples, live music, coupons, DJ dance party, yoga demo, raffle. 937-3200 for info. Vending space is also available.

November 2, 2007 – Black & White Night

“Downtown Hilo’s biggest strolling party with free live jazz music venues, a treasure hunt through town, stores opening late with specials, sales, free food samples, author and artist receptions. Everyone dresses in black

and white, some dress down in shorts and T-shirts, some dress up in gowns and suits to enter the ‘Best Dressed Black & White Contest’ for cash prizes. Free! Information call (808) 933-9772 or amoon@bigisland.com

October 25-31, 2007 – Louis Vuitton (Oooh la!) Hawai’i International Film Festival (Oct 18-24 in Oahu)

“The premiere American showcase for Asian cinema.” -Hollywood Reporter

“A launching pad for early films by younger directors.” -Roger Ebert

“One of the ten best film festivals around the world.” -Travel & Leisure Magazine

Films held at two locations around the island. At Palace Theater – Hilo (call for info (808) 934-7777) and Makalapua Cinemas in Kailua-Kona. Admission, dates, times and films TBA – or check local newspapers. Includes approximately 20 film showings, receptions, and filmmaking seminar. Also, check out the web site hiff.org for background on the filmsand info regarding submitting films in 2008 (then click here to watch trailers: bside). While you’re at it, click here for info on submitting films to the Big Island Film Festival – go for it!

October 20, 2007 – Obake Ghost stories

“Halloween local-style with an evening of music, food and spooky obake (Japanese ghost) stories from local Big Island residents. At Akiko’s Bed & Breakfast in Wailea Village at the 15-mile marker on Hwy. 19 on the Hamakua Coast. For more information call (808) 963-6422 or visit www.alternative-hawaii.com.”

October 13, 2007 – Ironman

1,800 psychotic athletes converging on the West side of our little Big Island to challenge themselves in the swim/bike/run – heck, even completing one part of this feat is an accomplishment! Usually this is around when the waves are going in Kona, and you can’t drive to get to them. Well, there has been no signs yet of pre-winter swells making it past Maui, so likely best for all to escape East side to avoid the hubbub. Unless you’re a super-freak going to enter the thing – go Millie! Hey, run a mile for me!

October 4th, Thursday • 7-10pm • $3 donation

From the guy who brings you…the Big Island Love stickers…Big Island Love presents: Electric Lounge “Sprocket serves up some of his finest Ambient, Downtempo, Psy-Chill and Dub tracks for your listening pleasure. Enjoy delicious beats and yummy treats at the cosy Kope Kope Espresso Cafe.” Kope Kope, 1261 Kilauea Ave (Hilo Shopping Center)

Saturday, September 29, 2007 • 4:30 PM • Aloha Festivals 14th Annual KWXX Hilo Ho’olaule’a

14th Annual KWXX Hilo Ho’olaule’a – Entertainment by the best of island musicians, ono foods and arts & crafts. The downtown area is closed to vehicles and three giant stages provide continuous fun. Sponsored by KWXX Radio. For more information call (808) 935-5461

August 11, Saturday • 7:30pm $15 advance, $20 door

Brother Noland – one of the most respected and talented local artists live at The Palace Theater, Hilo.

August 11-13 • Free!

Astronomy Fireworks Show! Saturday night to Sunday morning: Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station will be open all night for the Perseid Meteor Shower! • Sunday 2pm: Astronomer Bobby Bus gives free talk at ‘Ililoa Astronomy Center of Hawai’, Hilo (600 Imiloa Place off Komohana). • Sunday 2:30-4pm: Ohana Discovery Day at ‘Imiloa (reservation required). • Sunday night/Monday Morning is the predicted peak of the Shower. • This info is from NASA’s website – and just remember, we’re in an awesome locale to check this chit out!

“Got a calendar? Circle this date: Sunday, August 12th. Next to the circle write “all night” and “Meteors!” Attach the above to your refrigerator in plain view so you won’t miss the 2007 Perseid meteor shower. “It’s going to be a great show,” says Bill Cooke of NASA’s Meteoroid Environment Office at the Marshall Space Flight Center. “The Moon is new on August 12th–which means no moonlight, dark skies and plenty of meteors.” How many? Cooke estimates one or two Perseids per minute at the shower’s peak. The source of the shower is Comet Swift-Tuttle. Although the comet is nowhere near Earth, the comet’s tail does intersect Earth’s orbit. We glide through it every year in August. Tiny bits of comet dust hit Earth’s atmosphere traveling 132,000 mph. At that speed, even a smidgen of dust makes a vivid streak of light–a meteor–when it disintegrates. Because Swift-Tuttle’s meteors fly out of the constellation Perseus, they are called “Perseids.” The show begins between 9:00 and 10:00 pm on Sunday, August 12th, when Perseus rises in the northeast. This is the time to look for Perseid Earthgrazers–meteors that approach from the horizon and skim the atmosphere overhead like a stone skipping the surface of a pond. “Earthgrazers are long, slow and colorful; they are among the most beautiful of meteors,” says Cooke. He cautions that an hour of watching may net only a few of these–”at most”–but seeing even one makes the long night worthwhile. As the night unfolds, Perseus climbs higher and the meteor rate will increase many-fold. “By 2 am on Monday morning, August 13th, dozens of Perseids may be flitting across the sky every hour.” The crescendo comes before dawn when rates could exceed a meteor a minute. For maximum effect, Cooke advises, “get away from city lights” – this is a good time to go camping. And there’s a bonus: Mars. In the constellation Taurus, just below Perseus, Mars shines like a bright red star. Many of the Perseids you see on August 12th and 13th will flit right past it. Instead of following the meteor, you may find you have a hard time taking your eyes off Mars. There’s something bewitching about it, maybe the red color or perhaps the fact that it doesn’t twinkle like a true star….” P.S. And stay tuned for the total lunar eclipse starting August 27th – Hawai’i should have a great view for all stages.

August 31, Friday • $20 advance, $50 reserved seating, $80 reserved + invitation to private concert reception with entertainers

The 2nd Ke Ola I Ka Leo – Voices Empowering Health Fundraising Concert featuring the awesome sounds of HAPA* live at The Palace Theater, Hilo

Ke Ānuenue Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is a non-profit organization that serves the local community by providing health education programs including: diabetes education and counseling, video-teleconferencing to rural communities, and recruitment of healthcare workers. Pre-concert activities -starting at 4pm- include a Silent Auction, Healthy Food Demo & Sampling with Audrey Wilson, and Diabetes Information Booths. For more info or to order advanced tickets call the Ke Ānuenue AHEC Office 935-8658 or go online: www.keanuenue.org

(*click on “HAPA” to check out their web site for details on all the musical and fundraising work they’ve been up to!)