Stop missing out: 9 Big Island farmers markets this week (Dec 19–26)

The vibe this week

Big Island scene

Cool trades, mauka mist, and that holiday sparkle are in the air. Imagine pau hana in Hilo—music drifting through string lights and the smell of sizzling street eats—at the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET on Waianuenue Ave. By sunrise Saturday, Waimea wakes up crisp and golden. Coffee warms your hands as you wander Parker School lawn for the Waimea Town Market, then stroll the paniolo grounds at Kamuela Farmers Market at Pukalani Stables.

Don’t-miss flavors and finds

If you want the biggest buzz, Sunday’s Maku'u Market at 'O Maku'u Ke Kahua is a whole village—5 acres, hundreds of vendors, live music, and plates piled high. It’s a sensory feast and a true Puna staple. Chasing night-market energy? Hilo’s weekly FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET starts around 5:30 pm and rolls “’til pau.” It’s free, family-friendly, and perfect for a breezy stroll and ono bites. For artisan holiday gifting by the beach, pop into Makana Market at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott. Over 25 local makers bring jewelry, art, and handcrafted goods—so you can find something special without leaving the resort area.

Quick picks by vibe

Night owls: Hilo’s FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET and the twilight tastes of The Queens’ Culinary Market at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. Waikoloa (Thursdays, 4–7 pm) bring live music and ono bites. Upcountry chill: Saturday’s Waimea Town Market at 65-1224 Lindsey Rd Kamuela, plus Kamuela Farmers Market at Pukalani Stables, and the midweek groove at Pukalani Midweek Market at 67-139 Pukalani Rd. Waimea. Puna pride: The sprawling Sunday scene at Maku'u Market and the arts-forward East Hawaii MAKERS MARKET at 15-859 Kahakai Blvd. Pahoa (third Sundays, noon–5). Coastal cool: Lava-country Saturdays at Kaimu Farmers Market at Kaimu Farmer's Market, 8 am–noon—fresh fruit, pastries, and live tunes under the palms.

Hawaii Island atmosphere

Insider tips

• ●Waimea mornings run chilly—bring a light jacket and shoes you don’t mind getting dewy.
• ●Go early for best produce: Kamuela Farmers Market runs 7:30 am–1 pm; Kaimu Farmers Market is 8 am–noon.
• ●Night markets = minimal sunburn, maximum grinds. Hilo’s Friday market is free and perfect for keiki.
• ●Cash is king, but many vendors take cards—grab small bills for quicker lines.

See you at the market

From Hilo’s night sparkle to Puna’s epic Sunday sprawl and breezy Waikoloa evenings, this week is stacked with ono food, live music, and gifts made with aloha. Bring your reusable bags, your ʻohana, and your appetite—and if you want even more, explore more farmers market events → or browse more events →.