Kauai Events in September

Events & Festivals on the island of Kauai

08-21-2025

Tori C. Derrick

President & certified Hawaii travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

2025 Events & Festivities

If you’re lucky enough to visit Kauaʻi in September 2025, you’re in for a real treat. September is one of the quieter travel months on the Garden Isle, which means fewer crowds at the beaches and trails. However, the island still comes alive with incredible cultural festivals, live music, artisan markets, and hula competitions. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and authentic Hawaiian experiences. Whether you want to hear world-class slack key guitar, explore a local craft fair, or immerse yourself in traditional Hawaiian culture, Kauaʻi in September has something special waiting for you.

Kauai Mokihana Festival 

This is the crown jewel of September on Kauaʻi. A weeklong celebration of Hawaiian culture presented by the Mālie Foundation. The festival features everything from hula competitions to a Hawaiian composers contest, cultural workshops, and craft fairs. Two of the highlights are the Hula Kahiko Nei (traditional hula) and ʻAuana (contemporary hula) competitions, which showcase the artistry and storytelling of this cherished practice. Whether you join for a single workshop or attend the full week, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Hawaiian culture.

When: September 21st - September 27th
Where: Various Locations
More Info: Malie Foundation - Kauai Mokihana Festival

Kaua'i Songwriters Concert Series

This intimate evening showcases Hawaiian talent at its finest. Grammy award-winning slack key guitarist Ken Emerson takes the stage alongside Kauaʻi’s own Eli Smart, whose “Aloha Soul” style blends island roots with indie vibes. Together, they’ll fill the theater with music that’s heartfelt, soulful, and distinctly Hawaiian. If you want to experience live local music in a warm and welcoming setting, this concert is a highlight.

When: September 21st, 7 PM-9 PM
Where: Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center
More Info: Concert Series

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Kaua'i Island Crafters Fair

For over 15 years, this fair has been one of the best ways to support Kauaʻi’s local artists and makers. Dozens of vendors showcase jewelry, woodwork, textiles, home décor, and other handmade treasures. If you’re looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, this is the spot. The best part? You get to meet the creators and hear the stories behind their art. Admission is free, making it a fun community hangout while you explore charming Kōloa town.

When: Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 8:00 AM–2:00 PM
Where: Kōloa Neighborhood Center
More Info: Crafters Fair

Nā Mamo Kaiāulu 

This free, family-friendly event is all about celebrating traditional Hawaiian healing and cultural practices. You’ll find practitioners sharing lomilomi massage, lāʻau lapaʻau (Hawaiian herbal medicine), and other holistic approaches rooted in native traditions. Beyond healing, the event highlights community wellness, cultural workshops, and performances that keep Hawaiian knowledge alive. It’s a beautiful way to connect with the spiritual side of the islands and meet local cultural practitioners.

When: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Where: Kauaʻi War Memorial Convention Hall
More Info: Na Mamo Kaiaulu

So, what does a September on Kauaʻi look like? Imagine starting the month learning about traditional healing practices at Nā Mamo Kaiāulu. Mid-month, you could spend a Saturday wandering through a bustling craft fair in Kōloa, picking up one-of-a-kind pieces while chatting with local artisans. Then, as the month builds, you can cap it off with two incredible cultural experiences: the soulful Kauaʻi Songwriters Concert and the weeklong Mokihana Festival, a deep dive into hula, music, and Hawaiian heritage.

September might be a quieter time for visitors, but Kauaʻi more than makes up for it with these meaningful, music-filled, and culture-rich events. If you’re planning your trip, this month gives you the chance to experience the island in a more authentic, less touristy way, and trust me, it’s worth every moment.

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