Your guide to 22 Big Island cultural gems (Feb 28–Mar 7)

Feel the island pulse this week

Trade winds are back, the air smells like plumeria, and you can hear slack-key floating through the palms. Ever wandered a five-acre marketplace where every stall hums with aloha? That’s the vibe at Maku'u Market at 'O Maku'u Ke Kahua—3,000+ folks, 173 vendors, fresh produce, crafts, and live jams that make you sway without noticing.

As dusk settles, hula takes the stage and everything slows in the sweetest way. The free Weekly Hula at the Coronation Pavilion brings kahiko and ʻauana with live mele—pure goosebumps under the evening sky. Or tuck into the cool, historic walls of Hilo’s palace and time-travel with the Free Film Loop at Hilo Palace Theater—archival films that let you see Hilo like your tutu did.

Standout cultural moments you’ll love

If your heart’s been whispering “learn hula,” answer it this week. He Papa Hula: Beginner Kahiko Hula Class (Tuesdays at Kalani) at Kalani is led by Kumu Hula Leialoha Ilae-Kaleimamahu. It’s beginner-friendly, rooted in tradition, and even offers scholarships if the class fills.

Craving hands-on music? Free Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami are taught by a 3x Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winner. Ukes and sheet music are provided, so bring your smile and your strumming hand.

For deep, devotional quiet, the Amma Satsang Gathering at Kona Quantum Vitality offers chanting of the 108 Names and meditation in community. And if your curiosity stretches across oceans, step into Yorùbá wisdom with OSUN Online Lessons & Ritual with Iyá Angélica (Ancestral Knowledge Series) and the focused Ancestral Knowledge Series: Ọ̀ṣun Online Class (Mar 2). Sweet waters, diplomacy, abundance—powerful themes for the week.

Quick picks by vibe

• ●ʻOhana and free fun: Stroll Maku'u Market with the keiki, or catch Waimea’s breezy Pukalani Midweek Market for crafts, produce, and live tunes.
• ●Deep roots & ceremony: Share a labyrinth walk and sound bath at the donation-based Anawa Sunday Ritual Renewal, or join the Amma community for chant and meditation.
• ●Move your body: Dance with Kumu Tia at Hula ʻOla – Weekly Hula at Hawaiian Sanctuary ($10), learn kahiko at Kalani, or ground your day with sand-between-your-toes Yoga on the Beach with Calley O'Neill at A-Bay.
• ●Night owls & pau hana: Settle into local grooves at Kanakapila Hawaiian Music in Hilo Town. Feeling playful? Stretch your creative side at Improv Comedy Classes.

For more island mele, check the week’s live music events. And if culture is your compass, browse all the week’s cultural events.

Local’s notes (read this and feel like kamaʻāina)

• ●Markets: Bring a reusable bag, small bills, and sunscreen. At Makuʻu, arrive early for easier parking and breakfast finds. Waimea gets cool—pack a light layer.
• ●Hula etiquette: If you’re near the stage, stand respectfully and keep pathways clear for dancers and kūpuna. A soft “mahalo” to the musicians goes a long way.
• ●Beach classes: A towel beats a mat on the sand. A-Bay parking fills—come a bit early and enjoy the shoreline.
• ●Hilo Palace Theater: It’s breezy inside. A light sweater and a few dollars for donations keep the good things rolling.

Tomorrow’s tease

Tomorrow’s plan writes itself: wander Maku'u Market, snack your way through new flavors, and let the live music choose your pace. Save room for something sweet—lilikoʻi everything.

Hope to see you out there, friend. Bring your pareo, share a smile, and let the island show you what’s good. If you’re still plotting, explore more cultural events → or browse more events →.

FAQ for this week’s cultural happenings

• ●Are there free options? Yes—Weekly Hula , Free Film Loop , Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami, and markets are great free or donation-based picks.
• ●Kid-friendly ideas? Markets are perfect for keiki. Hula shows and the Hilo film loop are mellow, educational, and easy with strollers.
• ●What should I bring? Water, reef-safe sunscreen, a light layer for evening, and cash for vendors. For classes, bring a towel or pareo.
• ●Will weather affect events? Light mauka showers are normal—pack a small umbrella. Most events roll with the weather, but check listings day-of.
• ●Where can I find more? Dive into all cultural events and this week’s live music events.