Here are 13 Big Island events you’ll love today (Mon, Dec 29)

Can you hear it? The islands are humming today

Cool trades are back, the sky’s crystal after those mauka showers, and the air in Pāhoa hums with ʻukulele strings warming up for the afternoon jam. Over in Kona, twinkle lights line the street as Aloha Theatre gets ready to wrap you in a mountain-town Christmas, island-style.

Today’s can’t-miss moments

If you crave that sing-it-out feeling, the Rocky Mountain High Experience® John Denver Christmas at Aloha Theatre brings the glow—think pure vocals, timeless songs, and that cozy holiday nostalgia drifting through Kailua-Kona’s palms.

Want to be part of the music? Slide into the gentle rhythm at Ukulele Lessons & Participatory Jam this afternoon in Pāhoa (2:00–3:30 PM). Lessons are just $10, then the group jam is totally free—perfect for pau hana smiles and new friends.

And if your heart’s set on hula, Hula Ola with Kumu Tia at Hawaiian Sanctuary (4:00–5:30 PM, suggested $10) is an energizing, grounded session rooted in traditional wisdom—you’ll feel it in your naʻau. Prefer to sit back and sway? Catch the free Weekly Hula show at Coronation Pavilion in Waikōloa, where kahiko and ʻauana share the stage as the sun softens over the fishponds.

Pick your vibe today

For creatives: Hilo’s Open Mic Night at 168 Keawe Street Hilo Hawaii 96720 starts at 8 and rolls till close—poetry, guitars, and those surprise voices that give you chicken skin.

For movers: Try Intermediate Silks with Ellen at SPACE and feel that floaty, circus-strong confidence build with every climb. Got keiki who love to dance? Keiki Ballet w/ Rachel | Ages 5+ at SPACE offers a wholistic intro that’s sweet and focused—socks and leggings recommended, $12 drop-in.

For culture lovers: Between the Waikōloa hula show and Hula Ola in Pāhoa, you’ve got two paths into the heartbeat of Hawaiʻi. Either way, you’ll leave lighter.

If you’re chasing soundtracks: From Kona’s John Denver celebration to impromptu jams and mics around the island, your ears are covered—browse more live music →. And if you’re feeling acrobatic, peek at Browse all circus events →.

Local’s notes

• ●Trades can get crisp after sunset—bring a light layer for outdoor hula.
• ●Coronation Pavilion seating goes quick; a small towel or pareo makes stone benches comfy.
• ●Cash is handy for class drop-ins and suggested donations at Hula Ola.

See you out there

Tonight is what we love about this island: music in the palms, keiki finding their rhythm, and community in every smile. If your plans are flexible, wander and let the island decide—or explore more events → and map your perfect Monday.