The Island of Hawaii's relatively enormous landmass will host many events this coming October. No matter who you are or what you’re looking for from your visit, the Island of Hawaii will have something to offer in the middle of fall.

Here are the most exciting events and festivals coming to the Big Island in October 2023.

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2023 Events and Festivities

13th Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival

This year’s Food & Wine Festival is about Indigenous culture on the Island of Hawaii. The first day focuses on Indigenous World Cuisines and is presented by Kamehameha Schools. The second day is a morning Indigenous Food Culture Panel. Both are well worth your time as they check all the key boxes - beautiful location, cultural immersion, and incredible food and drinks.

When: Friday October 20th, Saturday October 21st
Where: 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Waimea (Mauna Kea Beach Hotel)
More Info: Hawaii Food & Wine Festival - Schedule of Events

26th Annual Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival

The Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival is a long-standing staple of the Hawaiian cultural scene. This year, the Big Island’s rendition takes place at the Outrigger Resort in Kona.

When: Sunday, October 29th, 1 PM - 5 PM
Where: 17-128 Ehukai St, Kailua-Kona (Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa)
More Info: Slack Key Guitar Festival

Woman's Ironman World Championship

The world championship of the ultimate triathlon takes place in Kailua-Kona this year. Athletes from around the world will be competing.

When: Saturday, October 14th 
Where: Kailua-Kona
More Info: Women's Ironman

Volcano Art Center's Forest Fair

The Volcano Art Center is described as “where people, art, and nature meet.” This ecological event is hosted on their Niaulani Campus, a restored native rainforest. It is an opportunity to engage with the amazing natural life that colors Hawaii’s forests - birds, plants, and the land. There will also be books and plants for sale!

When: Saturday, October 14th, 10 AM - 4 PM
Where: 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano (Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus)
More Info: Volcano Art Center - Events

Hawaii Island Festival of Birds Hilo

This full-day event celebrates biodiversity - one of Hawaii’s calling cards. One occasional way the incredible biodiversity of these islands expresses itself is in the beautiful assortment of birds to be found. If you’re interested in that, look no further than the Festival of Birds coming to Hilo this October! 

When: Saturday, October 21st, 9 AM - 6 PM 
Where: 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo (Grand Naniloa Hotel)
More Info: Birdfest Hawaii

A Taste of Hilo

A Taste of Hilo started in 1998 and has since become the premier culinary event for the Island of Hawaii’s eastern region. This year, the event is finally back to being in-person!

When: Sunday, October 15th, 1 PM - 3 PM
Where: 398 Kilauea Ave, Hilo (Sangha Hall)
More Info: Taste of Hilo

 

We hope you find this helpful guide to planning your October on the Big Island. As always, mahalo, and best wishes for your visit! 

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