Here are 7 Big Island farmers markets to savor Sep 18–25

Feel the mākeke magic this week

Trade winds are gentle, evenings are golden, and the air smells like plumeria and fresh ʻulu. Picture sunset glows at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive as Mākeke Fridays at Queens' Marketplace sets up from 4–7 pm. Slack-key-style melodies drift while you sample local honey and lilikoi butter.

On the Hilo side, pau hana rolls right into the night as the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET lights up 69 WAIANUENUE AVE. HILO from 5:30 pm until pau. Free to wander, plenty of grinds, and that cozy Hilo rain-kissed vibe we love.

Don’t-miss highlights

If you do one thing Saturday, make it the Kamuela Farmers Market at historic Pukalani Stables (67-139 Pukalani Rd.). It’s free, and it feels like old Hawaiʻi—crispy Waimea air, smiling farmers, and tables stacked with leafy greens and sweet island fruit from 7:30 am–1:00 pm.

Craving night market energy? Head down to Kaimū for the Wednesday Night Market at Uncles ‘Awa Club from 4–9 pm. It’s donation-based, with good ʻawa vibes, ono plates, and that Kalapana magic where the palms whisper and the stars feel close.

For a midweek reset, the Pukalani Midweek Market runs 8:30 am–1:00 pm at 67-139 Pukalani Rd. Waimea. Fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music make errands feel like a treat.

Quick picks by vibe

Sunset lovers: Waikoloa’s Mākeke Fridays at Queens' Marketplace brings that golden-hour stroll with local flavors right by the palms.

Early birds: Saturday in Waimea is where it’s at. Start at the free Kamuela Farmers Market, then swing by the free Waimea Community Market at 65-1224 Lindsey Rd for more fresh finds and ʻohana vibes.

Night owls: Hilo’s free FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET goes until pau, and Uncles in Kalapana keeps Wednesdays glowing under the stars.

Midweek cruisers: The Pukalani Midweek Market is perfect for restocking the fridge without weekend crowds.

Local’s notes

• ●Bring reusable bags and a small cooler. Dragonfruit and greens keep better on sunny drives.
• ●Cash is king for many vendors. Small bills make you a hero.
• ●Waimea mornings get chilly. Pack a light jacket; Hilo side, a rain shell never hurts.
• ●Kalapana can have mosquitoes at dusk. A little repellent goes a long way.
• ●Go early for the best selection. Go late for possible deals and extra smiles.

Tomorrow’s tease

Saturday 9/19: Meet me at the Kamuela Farmers Market. We’ll grab hot malasadas, talk story with farmers, and fill our bags by noon.

See you at the market

Let’s make this a week of fresh ʻai and good company. If you’re hungry for even more, explore more farmers market events → or browse more events →. I’ll be the one with a lilikoi lemonade and a grin.

FAQ

Q: Which markets are free this week? A: Hilo’s Friday Night Market, Kamuela Farmers Market, and Waimea Community Market are free. Uncles welcomes donations.

Q: What’s the best time to go? A: Early for peak produce and parking, late for mellow crowds. Saturdays in Waimea shine from 7:30 am–10 am.

Q: Do vendors take cards? A: Many do, but not all. Bring cash just in case, plus a backup card for larger purchases.

Q: Are these family-friendly? A: Absolutely. Most markets welcome keiki and feel built for the whole ʻohana—music, treats, and room to roam.