Don't Miss the Holualoa Music and Light Festival

This December, Christmas in Kona comes early to the historic upcountry village of Holualoa just up the coast – and the hill – from Kona on the Big Island. While we cannot confirm the rumors, Santa may make this historic coffee plantation town his first stop every holiday season in order to stock up on the java that helps him circumnavigate the globe every Christmas Eve. Either way, he and his friends will be there in style (his Hawaiian sleigh is a classic red convertible) for the Holualoa Music and Light Festival the first Saturday in December.

Christmas in Kona Spectacular

Visitors from across the island will marvel at the incredible light displays and story-telling scenes that adorn the historic buildings of the preserved Holualoa Village. From the Ukelele Gallery to the Ipu Arts Plus, these iconic buildings will be decked out in their Christmas finest and open all night long, serving visitors free pupus and showcasing their unique wares and artisanal crafts. Stroll the magical streets and enjoy live Hawaiian music and Christmas carols from your favorite local artists at pop-up stages and at the famous pink Kona Hotel stage. If you squint your eyes, you might even make out some snow high atop the slopes of Mauna Kea, giving you that white Hawaiian Christmas in Kona you have always dreamed of.

The Jolly Guy Himself

Of course, no music and light festival is complete without a visit from Santa, and he will be in full regalia waiting to meet old and young alike. After he cruises into town on his special Hawaiian sleigh for the parade at 5:30pm, your kids can meet him in person at his special Hawaiian tent, located next to the post office. Afterwards, treat yourself to the delicious confections on hand from local vendors selling crepes, pizza, gourmet hot dogs, and other specialty “street” foods all evening long. Carpooling is encouraged, as parking is limited (spots are available, first come, first serve, at the village lots, school, and Imin Center).