Big Island Events in November

2025 Events and Festivities

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is Hawaiʻi’s longest-running food and culture celebration, and the ultimate way to experience the island’s world-famous coffee harvest. For more than 50 years, this event has honored Kona’s heritage of small-farm excellence.

Festival Highlights:

• Lantern Parade & Multicultural Showcase (Nov 7): A glowing waterfront procession from Kailua Pier to Hale Halawai.
• Holualoa Coffee & Art Stroll (Nov 9): Sip, shop, and stroll among historic galleries and boutique roasters.
• Farm Tours & Cupping Workshops (Nov 10 – 14): Learn to brew and taste Kona coffee like a pro.
• Kona Coffee Quilt Show (Nov 10 – 15): See the island’s heritage beautifully stitched into fabric art.
• 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon (Nov 15): Run through scenic Kailua-Kona — coffee included!
• A Taste of Kona – Grand Finale (Nov 15): Local chefs, live music, and coffee pairings at the Outrigger Kona Resort.

Insider Tips:
Purchase the official festival button for access to most events. Book farm tours early. They fill quickly. Parking can be tight in Holualoa, so arrive early and plan to explore the charming village on foot.

When: November 7th-16th
Where: Kailua-Kona & Holualoa (multiple venues)
More Info: Kona Coffee Festival

Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade

The annual Hilo Veterans Day Parade is a heartfelt salute to those who’ve served. It features marching bands, color guards, floats, and community groups. Locals line the streets for this small-town tradition that showcases the island’s aloha spirit.

Pro Tip:
Grab a seat near the bayfront for the best view, and stick around after the parade to stroll Liliʻuokalani Gardens or the Hilo Farmers Market.

When: November 8th
Where: Downtown Hilo (Kīlauea Ave to Bayfront)
More Info: Hawaii Island Veteran's Day Parade

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival – Kona Style

Few sounds capture Hawaiʻi’s soul like ki hōʻalu, or slack key guitar. This free outdoor concert gathers legendary musicians — including John Keawe, Brother Noland, and Ledward Kaapana — for an oceanfront afternoon of authentic island music.

Pro Tip:
Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen, and a light picnic. The venue overlooks lava cliffs with panoramic ocean views — a perfect spot to wind down your week.

When: November 16th, 1 PM - 5 PM
Where: Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, Keauhou
More Info: Big Island Slack Key Festival

Hula Arts at Kīlauea – Hula Kahiko

Experience traditional hula in its purest form — no microphones, no amplified music, chant, drum, and the voice of the volcano. Performed outdoors against the dramatic landscape of Kīlauea, this monthly program honors the sacred connection between hula and Hawaiʻi’s natural world.

Pro Tip:
Arrive early for parking, bring a sitting mat, and dress for variable weather — the show happens rain or shine. Park entry fees apply.

When: November 8th, 10:30 AM-11:30 AM
Where: Kahua Hula Platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
More Info: Volcano Art Center

Plan Your Perfect November Visit

If you have a week or more, here’s how to make the most of it:

• Weekend 1 (Nov 7–9): Kick off with the Lantern Parade and Holualoa Coffee & Art Stroll.
• Midweek: Join a coffee farm tour or cupping workshop.
• Weekend 2 (Nov 8 or 9): Choose between the Veterans Day Parade in Hilo or Hula Kahiko in Volcano.
• Finale (Nov 16): End your trip with slack key music overlooking the Kona coast.

November’s mix of culture, flavor, and aloha makes it one of the best times to visit Hawaiʻi Island. Whether you’re sipping fresh-roasted Kona coffee, swaying to guitar under the palms, or watching hula beside a volcano, you’ll experience the island’s heart and heritage in every moment.