Hawaii’s smallest main island will be exceptionally blessed this October with multiple festivals that rival any happening on an island all year. Chocolate, coffee, wine, lots of live entertainment - it’s on.
Here are the best events and festivals coming to Kauai in October 2023.
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2023 Events and Festivities
Annual Kauai Chocolate & Coffee Festival
No explanation is necessary. Don’t hesitate to get your tickets (see More Info), as you will unlikely be alone in your interest. This is exactly the kind of festival any Hawaii visitor would hope to see slotted during their stay. Workshops, demonstrations, farm tours, live entertainment, and lots of chocolate and coffee tastings and pampering stations. If you have nostrils and taste buds, don’t miss this one.
When: Sunday, October 15th, 10 AM - 4 PM
Where: Kilohana Plantation, Lihue
More Info: Kauai Chocolate & Coffee Festival
Poipu Food & Wine Festival
Another iconic festival making its annual resurgence in October is the Poipu Food & Wine Festival. Wines carefully paired with delicious foods and live music - the festival describes itself as an “exquisite epicurean event.” We can’t describe it any better than that! If you’re in Lihue between October 25th and 27th, don’t miss it.
When: October 25th - October 27th, 5 PM - 9:30 PM
Where: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa (Kauai Community College and the Shops at Kuku’iula) Community College)
More Info: Poipu Food & Wine Festival
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival
This cultural staple is about one of the islands’ most distinctive musical sounds - the lovely sound of slack key guitar. For the 31st time, Kauai hosts its rendition of the beloved festival. It will be held at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall in Lihue.
When: Sunday, October 8th, 1 PM - 5 PM
Where: 4191 Hardy St, Lihue (Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall)
More Info: Kauai Slack Key Guitar Festival
Rice Street Block Party
Who wants to party? Rice Street in downtown Lihue will be nothing but on the night of Saturday the 28th.
When: Saturday, October 28th, 4 PM - 8 PM
Where: Rice St, Downtown Lihue
More Info: Rice Street Block Party
Kauai Matsuri Festival
This exquisite celebration of Japanese culture will also take place at the Memorial Convention Hall. The weekend before the Slack Key Guitar Festival will see kimonos, taiko drums, music, dancing, local food and craft vendors, and even a tea ceremony.
When: Saturday, October 14th, 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Where: 4191 Hardy St, Lihue (Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall)
More Info: Kauai Matsuri Festival
Kauai Songwriters Music Festival
This year’s festival is broken into two parts. There will be songwriting workshops from 10 AM to 3:30 PM; then, from 5:30 to 9 PM, a concert featuring Jason Blume, Ken Emerson, and Kealoha.
When: Saturday, October 14th, 10 AM - 9 PM
Where: 3-5920 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa (Hilton Garden Inn at Wailua Bay)
More Info: Kauai Songwriters
We hope you find this helpful guide to planning your October in Kauai. As always, mahalo, and best wishes for your visit!
