The Island of Hawaii in July is a good place to be. Not only is the weather beautiful and the air full of summer energy, but the calendar is also typically full.
July 2023 is no exception. This will probably be one of the most all-action summers in recent Hawaiian memory. The variety of unique events coming to the Big Island surely attests to this.
What follows is a brief guide to some of the very best. On this list, we have volcano festivals, food truck festivals, paradigm-shifting drummers, competitions…you get the idea. Keep reading to discover the amazing range of events and festivals coming to the Big Island this July.
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2023 Events and Festivities
Experience Volcano Festival
The theme of this event is not obscure. It’s all about the Big Island’s Volcano Area, with a rich cultural history and much to be seen, heard, and tasted. Despite the music, food, demonstrations, tours, and more, Experience Volcano Festival is free to the general public. It is supported entirely by sponsors who make this distinctively “Big Island” event happen year after year.
When: July 29th, July 30th, 10 AM - 4 PM
Where: 19-4074 Old Volcano Road, Volcano (The Volcano Area)
More Info: Experience Volcano
Finding Her Beat
This special screening event showcases one of the most exciting cultural documentaries of the year. Taiko, the Japanese word for drum, has been a traditionally male-only instrument. This feature-length documentary is all about women breaking the paradigm. The event at Hilo Palace this July will also feature a discussion with the film’s featured artists, Tiffany Tamaribuchi and Chizuko Endo.
When: July 2nd, 7 PM - 9 PM
Where: 38 Haili St, Hilo (Hilo Palace Theater)
More Info: Hilo Palace - Movies
Summer Jam
This is just a big smorgasbord of fun stuff. This free event features a bus pull competition, a strongman competition, a health fair, a food truck festival, and a concert - all crammed into five action-packed hours.
When: Saturday, July 29th
Where: 323 Manono St, Hilo (Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium)
More Info: BISAC - Summer Jam
Kona Throw Down
The Kona Throw Down is a marlin fishing tournament. The rules are simple: catch the biggest marlin, and you return to your hotel much wealthier than you left it. Online registration is open now, so don’t wait to book your spot.
When: July 4th, 5th, and 6th
Where: Kailua-Kona
More Info: Kona Tournaments
Kamakahonu Swim
Hawaii is naturally one of the best places to swim for those interested in competitive swimming. This July, Kailua-Kona will host the Kamakahonu Swim. The race starts at the Ironman Championship swim start.
When: Saturday, July 1st, 8:15 AM - 11 AM
Where: Kaahumanu Pl, Kailua-Kona
More Info: Kamakahonu Swim
Bus pull competitions, rare reunions, and cultural celebrations involving volcanoes - this July the Big Island has all the makings of a good time. We hope you find this to be a helpful guide to planning your calendar for the journey ahead. As always, mahalo, and best wishes for your visit!
