Here are 19 Big Island community experiences to try this month

Ever felt the trade winds on your skin as slack-key guitar drifts through palms? That’s the Big Island community feeling—welcoming, down-to-earth, and full of surprise. One night you’re laughing at improv in HPP, the next you’re swaying to kanikapila in Hilo or tasting lilikoʻi butter at a market in Waikoloa.

Why Big Island community events hit different

It’s the mix—local kūpuna knowledge meets new voices, ocean breeze meets paniolo roots. Our weekly rhythm is built on classes, markets, jams, and gatherings where you can actually talk story. You’ll learn, you’ll eat, you’ll dance… and you’ll probably leave with a new friend for your ʻohana beach days.

Top upcoming experiences (and why they’re special)

If your week needs more joy, jump into Improv Comedy Class on Monday evenings in HPP. It’s $20, small, and big-hearted—think belly laughs, quick games, and finding your voice again. It happens at the Asherah Center next to the Awapuhi Labyrinth, so the vibes are wholesome and weird in the best way.

Craving stage time? Hilo’s Open Mic Night lights up 168 Keawe Street every Monday from 8pm until closing. You’ll see original songs, occasional stand-up, and that magical moment when the whole bar sings the chorus.

For sunrise peace and salty air, Yoga on the Beach with Calley O’Neill at A-Bay blends yoga, qigong, and deep rhythmic breathing. It’s gentle, ocean-side, and you’ll leave smiling like you just swam with honu.

Tuesday daytime? Stroll the Farmers Market at 250 Waikoloa Beach Drive. Crisp greens, mac nuts, jams and jellies—you can practically taste the sunshine. Later in the week, the island’s pantry levels up at The Queens’ Culinary Market each Thursday, 4–7pm. It’s where farms, food, and culture meet.

Want to grow what you eat (and get techy with it)? The free Puʻuhonua Wellness-Phase 2: Sustainable Ag / Advanced AgTech training is an online/on-site, culturally grounded program that welcomes primarily justice-involved or formerly incarcerated folks ready to skill up for real-world ag work.

Hilo’s Tuesday Kanakapila Hawaiian Music at 168 Keawe Street has been a beloved constant for over a decade. Authentic mele, sometimes hula, always aloha. If you love mele, keep an eye on live music events too.

Midweek in Waimea, the Pukalani Midweek Market runs Wednesday 8:30–1. Handmade crafts, produce, music—the kind of market where your keiki end up dancing by the taro leaves.

Ready to make a splash? The free Springboard Diving Club at Kawamoto Pool welcomes all ages on Wednesdays. They’ve got a new board and a friendly crew—perfect for trying that first jump (or dialing in your tuck).

Fridays bring culture and community in a big way. At Volcano, Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center host lei making, kapa stamping, and more from 11am–1pm. In Hilo town, the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET runs from 5:30pm til pau with food, crafts, and that after-work sparkle.

Got that paniolo spirit? Paniolo BBQ Under the Stars at Waikoloa Beach Marriott serves smoky flavors and island-country tunes—straight-up twinkle lights and barbecue bliss. For a classic storytelling feast, the Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani celebrates Kalāhuipuaʻa with dance, chant, and a sense of place you can feel.

If you’re stocking up for New Year’s, check the fireworks sale at KTA Super Stores Puainako in Hilo, and at KTA Super Stores Waimea. Go early; kine favorites go fast.

Where the magic happens (venue vibes)

• ●Lava Lava Beach Club at Anaehoʻomalu (A-Bay) Beach: Soft sand, gentle swells, and palm shade—perfect for sunrise yoga and post-class toes-in-the-sand time.
• ●168 Keawe Street, Hilo: A true townie hang for open mics and Hawaiian music. Friendly staff, easy sign-ups, big heart.
• ●Volcano Art Center gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Wood porch, cool air, and hands-on cultural demos you’ll actually remember.
• ●Queens’ Marketplace and Kings’ Shops area, Waikoloa: Breezy walkways, ample parking, and a rotating cast of farmers and makers.
• ●Kawamoto Pool, Hilo: All-ages energy and a supportive crew cheering for your best splash.
• ●KTA Super Stores Puainako, Hilo: Community hub when you need pupus, pick-ups, and seasonal happenings.

Insider tips from locals

• ●Mondays: Improv in HPP at 6pm; email early to reserve. Open Mic in Hilo starts 8pm—arrive by 7:30pm if you want to perform.
• ●Beach yoga: Bring a towel (sand > mat), reef-safe sunscreen, water, and a light cover for the breeze.
• ●Markets: Cash and cards both help. A small cooler in your trunk is clutch for greens and ahi dips.
• ●Volcano demos: It’s inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park; have a pass or payment ready.
• ●Diving club: Pack swimwear, towel, and an open mind. First-timers welcome.
• ●Kanikapila: RSVP is recommended. If you know the hula, there’s often room to dance.

Picks for different vibes

• ●First-timer: Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center + The Queens’ Culinary Market. Culture and ʻono eats in one weekend.
• ●Regular favorite: Tuesday Kanakapila Hawaiian Music in Hilo—consistently warm, always local.
• ●Budget-friendly: Free Springboard Diving Club , Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center, and Friday Night Market.
• ●Level-up learning: Puʻuhonua Wellness-Phase 2: Sustainable Ag / Advanced AgTech.
• ●Date night: Paniolo BBQ Under the Stars or the Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani.
• ●Creative courage: Improv Comedy Class on Mondays.

FAQ

• ●Are these events family-friendly? Many are! Markets, Volcano demos, and the diving club are great for keiki. Check each event for age notes.
• ●Do I need to reserve? Improv requires an email to hold your spot. Kanikapila suggests RSVP. Markets and demos are drop-in.
• ●What should I bring to open mic night? Your instrument, a short set, and a friendly vibe. Sign-ups are first-come.
• ●Are farmers markets cash-only? Most vendors take cards now, but cash is still quickest. Reusable bags are always a good idea.
• ●Is there a dress code for the lūʻau or paniolo BBQ? Island casual is perfect. Add a light layer for breezy nights.
• ●Do park fees apply for Aloha Fridays? It’s held inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, so standard entry may apply.

If you’re craving connection, the island’s ready for you—under palms, under stars, and always with aloha. Hope to see you out there. When you’re ready, explore all Community events →