Here are 21 Big Island cultural gems to catch (Mar 7–14)

Ever walked into a sea of tents and tarps, the smell of fresh laulau and lilikoi butter in the air, and slack-key vibes floating on the breeze? That’s the Sunday feeling at Makuʻu Market at 'O Maku'u Ke Kahua — five acres of pure Big Island energy, 173 vendors strong, and always buzzing with live music and ʻohana smiles.

March trades are back, the hills are crazy green, and sunsets are going full pau hana gold. Culture is everywhere this week — from old Hawaiʻi on film to the beat of hula drums to a rare Afro‑Brazilian ceremony that invites you to sit close and listen.

If you’re craving something soulful, Gira de Preto Velho: A Traditional Afro‑Brazilian Ritual (venue TBA) offers teachings on spiritual reconnection at 11:00 am, followed by the Gira at noon. It’s intimate, respectful, and deeply moving — the kind of experience you carry with you.

Three musts, if you ask me: First, wander Makuʻu Market till you find your new favorite ʻono snack and that crafty treasure you didn’t know you needed. It’s the island’s heartbeat in one place.

Second, catch Weekly Hula at Coronation Pavilion or at 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Dr. It’s free, outdoors, and you’ll feel the shift when kahiko and ʻauana share the same breeze.

Third, step into history with the free Free Film Loop at Hilo Palace Theater or the Historic Hawaii Film Loop at 38 Haili Street. Archival films, stories of old Hilo town — it’s like time travel with popcorn.

Choose your vibe this week:

Chill vibes: Sink into the Palace’s cool, old-school lobby for the free Free Film Loop , or drift through the Historic Hawaii Film Loop. Perfect for soft tradewinds and slow afternoons.

ʻOhana fun: The Anawa Sunday Ritual Renewal at 15-1601 4th street (HPP) brings a gentle group blessing, labyrinth walk, and sound bath — donation-based and keiki-welcoming. Midweek, stroll the Pukalani Midweek Market in Waimea for fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music.

Learn and move: Lace that pāʻū and try Hula ʻOla – Weekly Hula at Hawaiian Sanctuary with Kumu Tia at Hawaiian Sanctuary ($10). Go deeper at He Papa Hula: Beginner Kahiko Hula Class (Tuesdays at Kalani) at Kalani. Or pick up a new mele at the free Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive. Movers, there’s also sunrise sand and breath at Yoga on the Beach with Calley O'Neill at Lava Lava Beach Club at Anaehoʻomalu (A-Bay) Beach.

Night owls: After pau hana, cruise to 168 Keawe Street for Kanakapila Hawaiian Music. It’s that timeless Hilo strum — the kind that makes you sway without thinking.

Creative spark: Want laughs and presence? Improv Comedy Classes at 15-1601 4th Street will shake the rust off your playful side. Low-pressure, all smiles.

Pro tip: Markets love early birds; parking and the best ʻono go first. Bring small bills, a reusable bag, and a light layer for mauka sprinkles.

If your heart’s tugging toward connection this week, follow it. I’ll see you under the palms and twinkle lights. When you’re ready for more, explore more cultural events → or browse more events →.

FAQ

What’s a great free cultural pick this week?

• ●The Free Film Loop , Historic Hawaii Film Loop, and Weekly Hula are all free.

I’m new to hula — where should I start?

• ●Try Hula ʻOla – Weekly Hula at Hawaiian Sanctuary for a friendly class, or go deeper with He Papa Hula: Beginner Kahiko Hula Class (Tuesdays at Kalani).

Any family-friendly cultural options?

• ●Yes: Makuʻu Market, Pukalani Midweek Market , and the donation-based Anawa Sunday Ritual Renewal are great for the whole ʻohana.