2025 Events and Festivities

Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade

Honestly, if you can only do one holiday event on the Big Island, make it this one. The Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade is one of the island’s longest-running and most cherished December traditions, we’re talking decades of community pride.

Picture this: the cool Waimea mountain air at dusk, the sky turning that gorgeous soft purple, and then suddenly—boom—the whole town lights up. Wagons, trucks, horses, marching bands, local hālau (hula groups), school clubs, fire trucks… everything decked out with Christmas lights. It’s charming, quirky, and absolutely heartwarming.

Why It’s Popular

• It’s one of the largest holiday parades on the island
• The “twilight” timing makes the lights pop against the evening sky
• Waimea’s paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage gives the parade a unique Western-meets-Hawaiian feel

Why You Should Go

This is the kind of event where you feel immersed in warmth — not just from the holiday spirit but from the sense of community. Locals line the sidewalks early with blankets, chairs, and hot cocoa. If you want an authentic slice of Big Island life, this is it.

When: December 6th, 6 PM
Where: Waimea Town
More Info: Waimea Christmas Parade

Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade

Kona’s Community Christmas Parade is a complete coastal celebration right in the heart of historic Kailua Village. Floats roll down Ali‘i Drive with ocean breezes, twinkling lights, and a warm, tropical holiday vibe. It’s lively, cheerful, and full of island personality.

Expect:

• Music from local bands
• Hālau (hula groups) performing
• Colorful and humorous floats
• Santa arriving island style

The Hawaiian sunset over the ocean right before the parade starts? Absolutely unbeatable.

Why It’s Popular

• It’s the biggest parade on the Kona side
• Easy to walk to from most Kona hotels
• Offers that perfect “Hawaiian Christmas postcard” aesthetic

Why You Should Go

If you're staying in Kona, this is an absolute must. Grab an early dinner on Ali‘i Drive, secure a good spot, and enjoy a fun, festive evening right by the water.

When: December 13th, 5:30 PM
Where: Kailua-Kona
More Info: https://paradesinkona.com/kailua-kona-parade

Holualoa Music & Light Festival

What This Event Is Like

Holualoa is this adorable little art village tucked up on the slopes above Kona, and the Music & Light Festival transforms it into a glowing wonderland for one night. Picture galleries open late, local musicians perform outside, Christmas lights wrap around coffee trees, and the smell of Kona coffee drifts through the air.

It feels intimate — almost like walking through a cozy, artsy village in another world.

Why It’s Popular

• It’s one of the prettiest December events on the Big Island
• Combines art, music, shopping, and lights
• A great way to visit Kona’s coffee country

Why You Should Go

It’s romantic, relaxing, and incredibly atmospheric — the perfect “slow holiday evening” event. Pick up locally made ornaments, pottery, or artwork for truly special souvenirs.

When: December 6th, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Holualoa Village
More Info: https://holualoavillage.com/

Nā Mākua Invitational Christmas Gift Fair (Hilo)

This is the premier holiday craft fair on the Hilo side — and one of the largest on the entire island. If you want authentic Hawaiian-made gifts, art, and crafts, this is the place to go.

You’ll find:

• Local artists and designers
• Hawaiian clothing and jewelry
• Wood carving and lauhala weaving
• Kapa art
• Homemade foods, jams, treats
• Live Hawaiian music and entertainment

Why It’s Popular

It’s widely known for having true local artisans, not mass-produced souvenirs. Many shoppers come specifically for hard-to-find cultural items.

Why You Should Go

If you're heading to Hilo — or want meaningful holiday gifts — you’ll love this. Plus, everything is indoors or under cover, which is perfect for Hilo’s occasional December rain showers.

When: December 5th & 6th
Where: Edith Kanka'ole Stadium, Hilo
More Info: Christmas Gift Fair

Punalights — Big Island’s Most Famous Neighborhood Light Display

This one is super fun — Punalights is a private home light display that has grown into the island's most beloved, jaw-dropping light show.

We’re talking:

• Thousands of synchronized lights
• Animated displays
• Music you can tune into on your car radio
• A festive drive-up atmosphere that families adore

It’s a passion project created purely out of love, and it shows.

Why It’s Popular

• It’s free (donations appreciated)
• Great for kids
• Easy to access
• Changes every year with new surprises

Why You Should Go

If you're anywhere near Hilo or Puna, this is the perfect low-key nighttime outing. It doesn’t require much planning — just drive up, enjoy the lights, and soak in the glow.

When: Nightly throughout December
Where: Kurtistown/Puna District (near Hilo)
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/punalights

December on the Big Island has a warm, festive vibe unlike anywhere else, and these five events give you the best mix of culture, charm, and pure holiday fun. Whether you love parades, lights, live music, arts, or shopping, there’s something here that brings the holidays to life — island style.

Here’s why these are the top picks:

They’re annually recurring & community-cherished

All five have strong local roots and take place every year, making them reliable holiday traditions for both residents and visitors.

They cover every part of the island

• Kona coastline
• Holualoa coffee country
• Waimea ranch country
• Hilo town
• Puna district

Wherever you're staying, you’ll find something extraordinary nearby.

They provide a mix of experiences.

• Parades: Kona & Waimea
• Festivals: Holualoa Music & Lights
• Shopping/art: Nā Mākua Gift Fair
• Holiday lights: Punalights

It’s a perfect balance if you're visiting for a week or more.

They’re family-friendly, couple-friendly, and accessible.

Whether you want a cozy night with your partner, fun for the kids, or something cultural and meaningful, these events deliver.

They showcase authentic Hawaiian culture.

You’ll see hula, hear Hawaiian music, meet local artisans, and experience the aloha spirit firsthand — all wrapped in holiday cheer.