Big Island Events This Week: 96 Can’t‑Miss Happenings (Dec 17–24)

That holiday-island feeling

Cool tradewinds, a soft glow from the lāhui of lights, and that crisp Hilo evening air that makes cocoa taste better—this week feels magic. Picture yourself at Hilo Palace Theater as the Orchid Isle Orchestra String Quartet sends warm, shimmering harmonies up into the rafters. Or barefoot on ʻāina in Pāhoa, pulsing to bass-heavy rhythms, then melting into sound healing under the palms.

A few we’re extra stoked about

We’ve got our eye on the Orchid Isle Orchestra String Quartet Holiday Concert at Hilo Palace Theater—community musicians in their 19th year filling the Palace with timeless cheer. Over in Puna, WeDance: Mystic Dance Temple with HAJ turns Sundari into a moving prayer, blending ecstatic dance with luminous melodies and a gentle landing in sound bath—there’s even live handpan with Rob Zaher in the mix. And if your heart beats for food and mele, The Queens’ Culinary Market in Waikoloa brings a weekly sunset spread of island flavors, maker booths, and live music—totally free and perfect for the whole ʻohana.

Feeling creative? Slide into the cozy Crafty Raccoon Art House for Modern Collage(-ish?) Art (materials included) or try Mixed Medium Painting the next afternoon—both playful, hands-on sessions that leave you with inky fingers and a happy heart. Got keiki with extra energy? The Springboard Diving Club at Kawamoto Pool is a free splashy win, with a new board and a crew that keeps it fun for all ages.

Pick your vibe, this week

Night owls can wander Hilo’s pau hana scene: Open Mic at The Booch Bar, the free freestyle Cypher Night at La Hiki Ola Kava Bar (6:00pm to pau), and free Karaoke at Hilo Town Tavern on Keawe Street—three flavors of local talent, one easy stroll. Wellness seekers can greet the day with Hatha Yoga with Marika at Hawaiian Sanctuary or explore the Roots of Yoga at Kalani—gentle, alignment‑based, and perfect before beach time. Adventurers and circus-curious? SPACE hosts Silks & Sling with Ellen (ages 7+), a friendly mixed‑level class that’ll have you grinning from your first foot lock. If you’re nesting at home, pop into the Free Brown Bag Talk on Zoom to go from powerless to powerful in five steps—solid mana for the holidays.

Insider notes

Bring a light sweater for the Palace—those gorgeous high ceilings can feel cool after sunset. Sundari is shoes‑off; arrive a touch early to ground in and set your intention. Waikoloa’s Queens’ Marketplace has ample parking; grab your malasada before they sell out and catch the golden hour by the koi ponds. And if you’re diving in Hilo, pack towels and a thermos—mauka showers happen.

Tomorrow’s tease? Thursday glows: craft time at Crafty Raccoon, the Queens’ Culinary Market sunset stroll, and that intimate Hōkū concert with opera tenor Victor Ryan Robertson in Kona.

Want more? Wander the full lineup and build your perfect week: explore the full calendar →. If dance is your jam, start here: Find more dance events →. Circus fam, we see you too: Browse all circus events →.