Kauai Events in July

2025 Events and Festivities

America's Most West Freedom Fest

Date: Thursday, July 3, 2025
Location: Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands
Time: Gates open at 4:30 PM, events begin at 6:00 PM
Cost: FREE (U.S. citizens with valid ID required)

Celebrate Independence Day early at America's westernmost military freedom fest. This family-friendly evening features live music, food vendors, and culminates in the island's best fireworks show over water around 9:30 PM.

What to Expect:

• Live musical performances (lineup to be announced)
• Food and beverage booths
• Family activities and crafts
• Spectacular waterfront fireworks display

Important Entry Requirements:

• U.S. citizenship and a valid photo ID are required
• No foreign nationals permitted
• Vehicle searches at the gate - allow extra time
• Prohibited items: outside food/beverages, coolers, tents, pets, weapons, drones, and personal fireworks

Contact: PMRF MWR Office at (808) 335-4446
More Info: Check PMRF MWR Facebook

Kōloa Plantation Days Festival

Dates: July 18-27, 2025 (tentative)
Location: Kōloa & Poʻipū (South Kauaʻi)
Cost: Most events are FREE

Note: 2025 marks the 38th anniversary of this beloved festival

A robust 10-day celebration honoring Kauaʻi's multicultural plantation history. This festival showcases the island's evolving identity through cultural programming that highlights Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese influences.

Typically Featured Events Include:

• Festival opening ceremony with traditional pāʻina (community gathering)
• Heritage craft fairs with live demonstrations
• Polynesian cultural performances and fire dancing
• Guided coastal eco-tours at Mahaulepu
• Kauaʻi Culinary Market featuring plantation-era foods
• Historic sugar industry tours and exhibits
• Family fun run/walk with multiple distance options
• Community parade and park celebration

Why It Matters:

• Deep dive into cultural coalescence and immigration history
• Rich programming spanning cultural, culinary, athletic, and environmental activities
• Accessible pricing with most events free or low-cost
• Community-focused celebrations hosted by local organizations

Contact: [email protected] or (808) 652-3217
Official Site: koloaplantationdays.com

Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge

Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Location: Hanalei Bay and Pier
Time: Check-in starts at 7:00 AM
Cost: Varies by event ($10-$40)

The 16th annual Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge offers open-water swimming in one of Hawaiʻi's most beautiful bays. This event supports the Namolokama OʻHanalei Canoe Club and welcomes swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Race Categories:

• Keiki Pier Swim (12 & under)
• 1,000-meter swim
• 3,000-meter swim
• 1,000-meter mask and fin swim

Event Schedule:

• 7:00 AM: Check-in and race day registration
• 8:45 AM: Traditional Hawaiian blessing (pule)
• 9:00 AM: Keiki pier swim
• 9:20 AM: 3,000-meter swim
• 9:25 AM: 1,000-meter swim
• 9:30 AM: 1,000-meter mask and fin swim

Contact: [email protected]
Registration: flpregister.com/730
More Info: namolokama.org

Event Planning Tips

Before You Go:

• Verify current information - Check official websites and contact organizers directly
• Arrive early for popular events to secure parking and good viewing spots
• Bring essentials - Water, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and light layers for evening coolness
• Respect local culture - Say "aloha," engage respectfully with locals, and support small vendors

Entry Requirements for PMRF Events:

• Valid U.S. government-issued photo ID required
• Foreign nationals not permitted
• Vehicle and personal searches conducted
• Allow extra time for security procedures

Last Updated: June 2025 | Information subject to change without notice

Travel Planning Note: July is peak season on Kauaʻi. Book accommodations and rental cars well in advance, and consider how event schedules might affect traffic and parking in popular areas like Kōloa/Poʻipū and Hanalei.