Kids & Family Events on Big Island • December 2025 (17 Keiki-Approved Adventures)

Feel the December magic on Hawaiʻi Island

Ever watched your keiki chase bubbles under twinkle lights while slack-key carols drift through the palms? That’s December here. Cool trades, warm smiles, and holiday sparkle from Hilo side mist to Kona’s golden sunsets.

You’ll smell plumeria at dusk and gingerbread at craft fairs. Nights are sweater-cozy mauka, barefoot-comfy makai. If you’ve been waiting for an easy, joy-filled month with the ʻohana, this is it.

What to expect this month (and why it’s special)

December is all about connection. Think beachside tree lightings, keiki hula showcases, lantern walks, and cozy outdoor movie nights. Makahiki season continues, so you’ll see nods to Hawaiian games, music, and gratitude.

Expect 17 kids & family events spread across the island. Many are free or donation-based, with tasty treats for the keiki and live mele for the grown-ups. Hilo side leans breezy and festive; Kona side brings the glow at sunset.

• ●Want music with your memories? Check out Live Music Events → (7 events)
• ●Ready for a whirl? Peek at Dance Events → (1 event)
• ●Saturday morning strolling? Don’t skip Farmers Markets → (5 events)

Themes you’ll see (no spoilers!)

• ●Keiki holiday parades and tree lightings under palm trees
• ●Craft fairs with local makers, ornaments, lauhala, and ono bites
• ●Storytimes, puppetry, and theater for little imaginations
• ●Beach park picnics with lawn games and keiki karaoke
• ●Cultural spotlights honoring Makahiki and island traditions

Week-by-week vibe guide

• ●Dec 1–7: The island wakes up twinkly. Early parades, craft fairs, first light-ups. Perfect for stroller-friendly evenings and cocoa stops.
• ●Dec 8–14: Peak ʻohana season. Expect more market pop-ups, concerts at sunset, and keiki workshops. Bring a light jacket after dark.
• ●Dec 15–21: School’s out energy. Outdoor movies, beach picnics, cookie decorating, and carols that turn into impromptu hula. Pack a blanket.
• ●Dec 22–31: Festive finale. Daytime adventures, starry-night sing-alongs, and gentle New Year’s countdowns suited for early bedtimes.

Recurring gems worth weaving into your plans

• ●Saturday markets: Fresh fruit, handmade toys, keiki crafts, and live mele. See the full list at Farmers Markets →.
• ●Music moments: Slack-key afternoons and family-friendly kanikapila pop up all month. Browse Live Music Events →.
• ●One-time twirls: If the kiddos love to move, peek at Dance Events →.
• ●Budget-friendly picks: Look for Free community nights and park gatherings.

Insider tips from a kamaʻāina friend

• ●Arrive 30–45 minutes early for parades and movies. Grab malasadas, stake a lawn spot, breathe.
• ●Bring a small flashlight for post-event strolls to the car. Extra smiles if it’s shaped like a honu.
• ●Pack layers: breezy makai, crisp mauka. A light rain shell helps on the Hilo side.
• ●Ocean note: North swells can kick up in winter. Choose lifeguarded beaches for keiki, check conditions, and keep play in the shallows.
• ●Parking fills fast near town centers. Park a few blocks out and enjoy the twinkle-walk in.

Planning basics (so your week flows)

• ●Book early for limited-capacity workshops or performances. Family sets go quickly.
• ●Many community gatherings are free; vendor fairs usually free to browse. Save $ for treats and gifts.
• ●Hilo side = more rain, more rainbows. Kona side = sunnier afternoons, dreamy sunsets. Plan indoor backups for Hilo days and golden-hour plans in Kona.

Weather & what to pack (real talk)

• ●Temp: Days 75–82°F. Evenings 65–72°F. Cooler mauka.
• ●Rain: Occasional showers, mostly windward. Quick and refreshing.
• ●Pack: Reef-safe sunscreen, hats, refillable water bottles, light sweaters, rain shell, closed-toe shoes for adventures, beach blanket, and a small dry bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is December good for kids on the Big Island? Absolutely. Cooler temps, earlier sunsets for bedtime-friendly evenings, and lots of outdoor, stroller-friendly gatherings make it a sweet month for ʻohana.

Do we need tickets in advance? Some workshops and performances do sell out. If it’s seated or capacity-limited, reserve early. Many community nights and markets are free drop-ins.

What if it rains? Showers are quick. Most events pivot under tents or move indoors nearby. Bring a light shell and enjoy the rain-kissed air—Hilo sparkles after mist.

Are events stroller-friendly? Most are. For parades and markets, aim for wider sidewalks or the park perimeter. A baby carrier is handy for grassy or gravel areas.

Ready to build your family’s December?

Scroll the full list of 17 keiki-friendly happenings and pick the ones that light you up. I’ll be the one with cocoa, a beach blanket, and sandy keiki toes.

See what’s on tap: browse more kids & family events →