Kauaʻi ʻUkulele Festival
2026-04-19 11:00 - 16:00 (Pacific/Honolulu) | Kukui Grove Center- Center Stage, 3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, 96766
When: Sunday, April 19, 2026, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: FREE at Kukui Grove Center, Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi

The Kauaʻi ʻUkulele Festival, a celebration of all things ʻukulele, takes place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the Kukui Grove Center, Līhue, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi from 11 am – 4 pm. ʻUkulele enthusiasts can look forward to this free event with live stage entertainment on the stage including well-known artists like Aldrine and Aaron, Fingahs plus emerging artists from local schools and clubs including Poipu/Kalaheo/Westside ʻUkulele ʻOhana, Na Kani Le’a, “The B3 Band”, Kapaʻa Middle School ʻUkulele Band, and Koloa Center Kūpuna ‘Ukulele Group. This is an opportunity to meet and engage Kauaʻi’s local ʻukulele community. There will also be ʻukulele luthiers will be onsite selling their products including Hanalei Strings with Kala Brand ʻUkuleleʻs plus various crafters selling ʻukulele related and music themed merchandise including jewelry, handcrafted wood items, post cards and logo merchandise. Plus, there will be a silent auction with a variety of ʻukulele’s available.

Discover the cultural significance the ʻukulele plays as Hawaiʻi’s ambassador of Aloha. Enjoy community information booths, ʻukulele merchants and ʻukulele inspired merchandise. Plus a Hawaiian cultural activities zone with a short Ōlelo Hawaiʻi Hawaiian Language introduction with vocabulary list on colors, days and months. Kapala: Stamping activity with hand carved stamps by Na Maka Kahiko. All designs resemble a different meaning which were used when making kapa designs.

Also, new this year celebrating mele, culture, and creativity through hands-on learning and connection are free workshops. Our class space is limited, note the events are free to the community and will be held at the AG ‘Ukulele Academy at Kukui Grove Center on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Please find our schedule below.

Beginners ʻUkulele Workshop Instructor ALDRINE GURERRERO
Perfect for those just starting their ʻukulele journey, this workshop introduces the fundamentals:

Proper tuning and holding technique
• Basic chords and simple strumming patterns
• Rhythm and timing basics
• Playing your first Hawaiian song

Participants will leave with the confidence to play along with others and a strong foundation to continue growing. No experience necessary — just bring your ʻukulele and a willingness to learn!

Recording the Ukulele: From Home Demos to Studio Sessions Instructor Willsie ScotT, Sugar Mill Sound – Noon – 12:45 pm
Learn how to capture the true sound of the ukulele in this practical 45-minute workshop designed for players, songwriters, and home recordists. Topics include what makes the ukulele unique to record, microphones versus pickups, simple recording methods using phones, handheld recorders, and DAWs, and how to prepare your instrument for better results. The session also covers reference tracks, tempo mapping, charting, collaboration, and recording ukulele parts for both your own songs and professional projects.
Baritone ʻUkulele Workshop instructor Kimo Hussey- 1 pm – 2:45 pm
Baritone ʻUkulele Workshop – Perfect for beginner to intermediate players, the workshop will include demonstrations, guided practice, and opportunities to play along. Whether you are new to the baritone ʻukulele or looking to expand your musical repertoire, this session will help you unlock the instrument’s full potential.

Registration links can be found on our website at KauaiUkuleleFestival.com
Support provided by Hawai‘i Tourism through the Community Enrichment Program, The County of Kauaʻi, The Kanikapila Project, Kukui Grove Center, AG ʻUkulele Academy, Kala Brand, Kala Foundation and Special Events Hawaiʻi.

Waipā 'Āina Festival 2026
2026-05-03 11:00 - 16:00 | Waipā Community Complex, Hanalei, 5-5785 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei, 96714
Looking to connect with ʻāina, culture, and community? Waipā is hosting our third annual ʻĀina Festival on Sunday, May 3rd, from 11am to 4pm at Halulu Fishpond in Waipā, located a half-mile past Hanalei Town. It’ll be a wonderful day of live music, ‘ono food, and cultural activities, to celebrate everything ʻāina! It’ll also feature local artisans, crafters, hands-on keiki activities and a waterslide, too. This is a fundraiser for Waipā Foundation and local entrepreneurs, so gate fees ($10 general, $1 keiki) and your purchases support our collective work! Visit WAIPAFOUNDATION.ORG or call (808) 826-9969 for more information. All are welcome — save the date!

Coppélia & Révérence
2026-05-09 | Kauai Comunity College Performing Arts Center, Lihue, 96766
Kauai Ballet Academy is pleased to present “Coppélia” AND “Révérence”, two outstanding ballets in one great show. Local musicians, Kenyon and Derek Johnson, will open the show with Révérence, an original piece choreographed by KBA Senior, Tewai Umu. After which, a charming rendition of the classical story of Coppélia will be performed in two acts. The family is sure to enjoy this enchanting production. For tickets and more information visit www.kauaiballetacademy.com

Downtown Lihue 2nd Saturday Night Market
2026-05-09 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-06-13 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-07-11 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-08 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-09-12 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-10-10 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-11-14 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-12-12 16:00 - 20:00 and 3 more dates | Kress Street, Kress Street, Lihue, 96766
Join us on Kress Street for Downtown Lihue’s 2nd Saturday Night Market. Locally made crafts, gifts, food trucks, baked goods, live entertainment, and much more! With over 40 local vendors we’re sure that there’s something for you to enjoy.
This event is free to attend, family friendly, and an outdoor open to the public. Hosted by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority and Alakoko Shop.
If you are an interested vendor, register at www.downtownlihue.com/night-market-details

Kauai Songwriters Music Festival 2026
2026-05-16 | HILTON GARDEN IN WAILUA BAY, KAPAA KAUAI, 3-5920 Kuhio Hwy, KAPAA, 96746
The Kauai Songwriters Music Festival: May 16, at the Hilton Garden Inn at Wailua Bay. The festival includes workshops for songwriters and a concert on Saturday evening. Tickets to the concert are $40. The workshop fee is $60 and includes a concert ticket.
Tickets
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/kauai-songwriters-music-festival–2026

For more information: https:artskauai.org
Funded with the support of the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Kauai County

Loulu Love Fest
2026-05-16 10:00 - 16:00 | National Tropical Botanical Garden, 4425 Lawai Road, Koloa, HI, 96756, United States
Loulu are Hawaiʻi’s only native palms. They are ecologically and culturally vital, serving as a primary resource for practices like hale construction and weaving. Today, these iconic plants are threatened by coconut rhinoceros beetle — but you can make a difference! Join us for a day of celebration for loulu in McBryde Garden and connect with this cherished plant through activities, presentations, and guided walks! Take home your very own and help us care for loulu for generations to come.

Free Garden Admission!
Presentations
Guided Walks
Ulana
Hale Thatching
Hula
Kid’s Activities
Loulu Art
CRB Info and CRB Dog Demo
Food Trucks: Kickshaws and Chalupa’s

Joining us for Loulu Love Fest is easy! Simply park at the Lāwaʻi Gardens Visitor Center (4425 Lāwaʻi Rd, Kōloa) and board a complimentary shuttle for a brief, scenic ride into McBryde Garden. Admission to the festival is free and no registration or advance booking is required. Shuttles will run on a continuous loop throughout the day, allowing you to arrive at your convenience and return to the Visitor Center whenever you are ready.

Kaua'i Pride Parade & Festival - Saturday June 6, 2026
2026-06-06 10:00 - 14:00 | Historic County Lawn, 4396 Rice St, Lihue, HI, 96766, United States
The 8th annual Kaua’i Pride Parade & Festival will take place in Līhu’e on Saturday June 6, 2026. The Parade will be at 10:00 AM on Rice Street from Vidinha Stadium to the Historic County Building Lawn, followed by a festival on the County Lawn until 2:00 PM. This is a free, family-friendly event to celebrate and uplift our LGBTQ+ & mãhū community on Kaua’i. The festival will feature local hula, local drag queens, live bands and performance art, food and beverage vendors, small business and craft vendors, local community resources and more! To sponsor or register for the parade, visit KauaiPrideParade.com

34th Annual Taste of Hawaii
2026-06-07 11:30 - 15:30 | Smith’s Tropical Paradise, 3-5971 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa, HI, 96746, United States
Taste of Hawaii is an all-inclusive event that showcases the finest offerings from the islands. This annual celebration brings together the best culinary experiences, making it a must-attend for food and beverage enthusiasts. This year’s event features more than 25 restaurants, each representing a wide variety of culinary traditions, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. Over 15 beverage providers will be present, offering a selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
The vibrant atmosphere of Taste of Hawaii is enhanced by live performances from 14 musical ensembles. These groups provide entertainment throughout the event, creating a memorable experience for all attendees.
Guests are invited to stroll and savor the event through lush tropical gardens

2026 KAUAʻI KINGS PARADE AND HOʻOLAULEʻA
2026-06-13 09:00 - 14:00 | Historic County Lawn, 4396 Rice St, Lihue, HI, 96766, United States
2026 Kauaʻi King’s Parade & Hoʻolauleʻa
Join the community in celebrating Hawaiian culture at the 2026 Kauaʻi King’s Parade & Hoʻolauleʻa in Līhuʻe. The parade begins at 9:00 AM on Rice Street, starting at Vidinha Stadium and ending at the Historic County Lawn. Following the parade, the Hoʻolauleʻa begins and continues until 2:00 PM, featuring food vendors, crafts, cultural demonstrations, and entertainment for the whole ʻohana.

Lihue Hongwanji Mission Bon Dance
2026-06-19 18:00 - 22:00, 2026-06-20 18:00 - 22:00 | Lihue Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, Across from Kapaia Stitchery
Bon dance festivals in Hawaii are traditional Buddhist celebrations to honor our ancestors. All are welcome to join the dancing to Japanese and Okinawan music accompanied by Taiko drummers around a Yagura. At Lihue Hongwanji, the Food Booth and Country Store open at 6PM and the dancing begins at 7:30PM.

Southside Music & Arts Festival
2026-06-20 15:00 - 2026-09-16 21:00 | Old Koloa Town, 5330 Koloa Road, Koloa, 96756
The annual Southside Music and Arts Festival celebrates the cultural diversity of Kauai with a night full of fantastic art, live music, and creativity on Kauai’s South Side.
On Saturday, June 20th Old Koloa Town will come to life with over 50 local artists, food trucks, and 4 bands. We invite you to dance the night away to live music, or wander beneath the towering trees and discover art installations and interactive booths. Grab some excellent dinner or snacks, and complete the night with shopping at local artisans booths. There’s something for everyone at the 3rd annual Southside Music and Arts Festival.
The festival begins with live music and vendors in Waikomo Courtyard, before moving across the street towards the Sugar Monument. Here you’ll find the festival main stage, art installations, and more artists and vendors. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged for attendees.
This family friendly festival is free to attend, thanks to our sponsors Old Koloa Town and Fish Eye Gallery.
The Southside Music and Arts festival is produced by the non profit Southside Arts Initiative. For information on our mission, or our music line-up and vendors, please visit www.SouthsideArtsInitiative.com or follow us on instagram @southsidemusicandart.

Relay For Life of Kauai
2026-09-12 16:00 - 21:00 | Kauai Philippine Cultural Center Puhi, Lihue Next to YMCA, Lihue, 96766
Celebrate.Remember.Fight Back. Relay For Life of Kauai is an event that provides our island community with a chance to come together in your local community to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against every cancer as we come together for every life. Be a part of the global community of passionate supporters working to help end cancer as we know it, for everyone! This family-friendly event raises funds to support lodging, patient services, research, and more! Free entertainment, activities for every age, and great food! For more information visit www.relayforlife.org/kauaihi

Kaua’i Brewers Festival
2026-10-03 15:00 - 18:00 | Kress Street, Kress Street, Lihue, 96766
Join us for Kaua’i Brewers Festival, Block Party Edition. Entry tickets are $50 presale for all ages (12 and under free), add all access to the beer garden (21 and over only, must have physical license to enter garden) for an additional $50.

2026 Eo e Emalani
2026-11-07 09:00 - 16:00 | Kokee State Park, Koke'e, HI, 96716, United States
The 38th Annual Emalani Festival takes place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, in Kōke‘e, Kaua‘i, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Tents featuring lei-making, exhibits, and food will surround the performance and seating area, creating an immersive cultural experience. Hawaiian music begins at 9:00 AM, setting the stage for the day’s festivities.
At the heart of the festival is the arrival of Queen Emma, her attendant, and her guide, Kaluahi, on horseback at 10:00 AM. Protocol ceremonies will pay homage to the Queen, with performances dedicated to her throughout the day. In a special moment, the Queen may offer a dance of her own. Sponsors and guests are invited to witness this historical event, authentic Hawaiian protocol, and genuine Hawaiian cuisine.
The event remains free to attend, but VIP packages will be available on the Eō e Emalani website https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=23479. VIP tickets are designed to encourage attendees to use the shuttle service, reducing traffic, parking congestion, and the overall carbon footprint in Kōke‘e.
VIP Tickets Include:

Shuttle service from Kekaha Neighborhood Center (Park and Ride)
VIP covered seating (bench seating under cover, fronting the performance area)
VIP meal (catered by Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano)
Festival shirt

Supported by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority through the Community Enrichment Program.

2026 Annual Waimea Light Parade
2026-12-19 17:00 - 22:00 | Hofgaard Park, Waimea, Waimea, Hawaii
Join us for a magical night of holiday cheer at the 26th Annual Waimea Light Parade on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at 6:15 PM. This family-friendly tradition brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the season with beautifully decorated floats, music, and community spirit.
Road closures in both directions begin at 5:00 PM.
Live entertainment follows the parade at Hofgaard Park starting at 8:30 PM.
Celebrate the season with us! gather your loved ones and enjoy one of Waimea’s most cherished holiday traditions.
