Your guide to 16 Big Island Kids & Family classes, markets + a lūʻau

Ever watched your keiki float in aerial silks while the palms sway outside? Or wandered a night market with sticky shave ice fingers and live music in the Hilo breeze? That’s the Big Island kids scene—hands-on, heart-forward, and made for the whole ʻohana.

Why Kids & Family is special on Hawaiʻi Island

Between the jungle studios of Puna and the breezy markets of Waimea and Waikoloa, keiki here learn by doing. Classes meet weekly, markets gather like clockwork, and traditions come alive at lūʻaus that share moʻolelo under the stars. It’s all about connection—to ʻāina, to culture, to each other.

Top upcoming experiences to try now

Thursdays makai in Waikoloa feel like a tasty field trip. The Queens’ Culinary Market fills late afternoon (4:00–7:00 PM) with island-grown produce, local treats, and talk story with farmers—easy, stroller-friendly snacking for curious keiki.

If your Friday needs sparkle, the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET lights up from 5:30 PM till pau. Picture music, artisan finds, ono bites, and that warm Hilo night air. It’s the kind of place you run into neighbors and let the kids pick a sweet.

Want a memory that feels like a postcard? The Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani (every Friday at 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive) celebrates Kalāhuipuaʻa with mele, dance, and stories. It’s gentle, soulful, and perfect for grandparents to littles.

Down in Pāhoa, the jungle is a playground. At SPACE, Keiki Ballet w/ Rachel | Ages 5+ brings tiny dancers into good posture and graceful movement ($12 drop-in; socks/leggings, ballet shoes encouraged). Right alongside, aerial classes like Silks & Sling with Ellen | Mixed Level, Ages 7+, Silks with Lillia | Mixed Level, and Beginning Silks with Ellen let kids 7+ climb, wrap, and spin for just $15 drop-in. It’s play with core strength hidden inside.

Tuesdays, the mats roll out at Kalani for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Kids from 3:30–5:00 PM ($20). Jack and Caleb are patient and fun—confidence blooms fast here, for beginners and returning students alike.

Water babies, this one’s for you: the Springboard Diving Club at Kawamoto Pool is free every Wednesday. All ages and abilities can try the (brand-new!) board with friendly guidance—bring towels and big smiles.

When you’re craving green fields and paniolo charm, head mauka. Saturday mornings split nicely between Waimea Town Market at Parker School and Kamuela Farmers Market at the historic Pukalani Stables (7:30 AM–1:00 PM; free). Midweek, the Pukalani Midweek Market keeps the rhythm going with produce, crafts, and live tunes.

And for a deep ʻāina moment, the Hawaiian Sanctuary Farm Walk Tour: From Soil to Soul wanders through regenerative orchards and gardens twice a month. It’s $25, and keiki under 12 are free—expect butterflies, breadfruit, and big takeaways about growing food in the tropics.

Key venues and what they feel like

• ●SPACE (Pāhoa): Jungle canopy, creative energy, and a welcoming crew. Aerial rigs, dance floors, and that barefoot, artsy Puna vibe.
• ●Kalani (Puna coast): Ocean breezes, open-air spaces, and community roots. The kids’ BJJ class feels structured yet playful.
• ●Hilo Town Market (69 WAIANUENUE AVE. HILO): A lively evening stroll with colors, sounds, and snackable bites.
• ●Waikoloa’s Queens’ area (69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. Waikoloa): Sunset glow, plumeria on the air, and easy walking paths for ʻohana.
• ●Waimea markets (65-1224 Lindsey Rd Kamuela and 67-139 Pukalani Rd.): Cool mornings, paniolo country, and happy dogs on leashes.

Insider knowledge you’ll be glad you knew

• ●For silks: wear fitted tops and leggings that cover knees; skip zippers and jewelry. Bring water and tie long hair back.
• ●Ballet specifics: socks/leggings are fine; ballet shoes are encouraged for Keiki Ballet w/ Rachel | Ages 5+.
• ●Ages matter: silks classes are 7+, ballet is 5+, and the BJJ class is designed for kids at any experience level.
• ●Market game plan: arrive early for the best produce on Saturdays (7:30–1:00 PM in Waimea). Bring a tote and some cash—some vendors prefer it.
• ●Hilo Fridays: expect “till pau” timing—go with the flow and soak up the vibe.
• ●Farm walk: keiki under 12 are free on the Hawaiian Sanctuary tour. Wear closed-toe shoes for trails and bring rain layers just in case.
• ●Quick contacts: Ballet questions? rachelbarreras@yahoo.com. Aerial with Ellen? einhorn808@gmail.com. Aerial with Lillia? 808-938-1847.

For different vibes

• ●First-timers: Start with Beginning Silks with Ellen or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Kids. Supportive teachers, clear basics.
• ●Regulars leveling up: Mix in Silks with Lillia | Mixed Level or Silks & Sling with Ellen | Mixed Level, Ages 7+ to build strength and flow.
• ●Budget-friendly: Free wins include the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET, Springboard Diving Club , and Saturday market browsing.
• ●Splurge-worthy: The Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani is a beautiful ʻohana night out.
• ●Weekend flow: Thursday sunset at The Queens’ Culinary Market, Friday Hilo night market, Saturday Waimea markets, and a Sunday rest—or aerial play at SPACE.

FAQ

Q: Do we need to pre-register for classes? A: Most kids classes listed are drop-in with posted rates (e.g., $12–$20). Arrive 10–15 minutes early for waivers and warm-up. For specifics, reach out to the teacher contacts above.

Q: What should my child wear for aerial silks? A: Fitted clothing that covers knees and armpits, no zippers or jewelry, and hair tied back. Bring water. Ages 7+ for mixed level; beginners welcome in the designated class.

Q: Are there free family options this week? A: Yes! The Hilo Friday Night Market is free, Kamuela Farmers Market is free to enter, and the Springboard Diving Club offers free Wednesday sessions at Kawamoto Pool.

Q: Is the lūʻau good for young kids? A: The Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani is gentle and story-driven—great for a multi-generational evening. Consider bringing a light layer for breezes after sunset.

Q: Where are these events located—Hilo, Waimea, Kona, or Puna? A: You’ll find markets in Hilo and Waimea, a weekly culinary market in Waikoloa, kids’ classes primarily at SPACE and Kalani in Puna, plus the lūʻau in the Mauna Lani resort area.

Q: Can visitors join or is this just for kamaʻāina? A: Most events welcome everyone. Be respectful, follow instructor guidance, and enjoy the community vibe—locals and visitors side by side.

Hope this helps you plan a week your keiki will talk about for months. When you’re ready, explore all Kids & Family events → and build your perfect ʻohana lineup.