Kiawe smoke, ribeye and lobster, and live island-country under the palms. Spend your Saturday at Waikoloa’s paniolo-style holiday feast with your ʻohana.
The Hook
Ever watched the sky turn hibiscus-pink while kiawe smoke drifts over the palms? That’s the vibe. Paniolo BBQ Under the Stars brings the holidays home—Waikoloa style—where the clink of ice in your glass meets the twang of island-country and the warm glow of tiki torches. Picture your slippers in the sand, the ocean breathing makai, and your ʻohana grinning between bites of smoky ribeye and butter-brushed lobster.
What to Expect
This is a full-senses pāʻina at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott: an all-you-can-eat Paniolo BBQ buffet with sizzling ribeye, lobster, and island-inspired sips, plus interactive activities that keep keiki and grown-ups smiling. As the sun slides toward A-Bay, award-winning duo Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish fills the night with island-style country—sweet harmonies floating through the palms.
Don’t miss: that first plate when the steak’s still hot, the moment the band kicks into a paniolo classic, and the starlit walk back past the lagoons with the breeze on your cheeks. Can you already hear the guitar, feel the warmth from the grills, and taste the smoky glaze?
The People
Local organizers teamed up with the Waikoloa Beach Marriott culinary crew and culture keepers to honor Hawaiʻi Island’s paniolo roots—those tough-and-tender cowboy stories from up mauka that live on in song and table. And with Kalaʻe & Kalena Parish on stage, you’re getting the real deal: award-winning talent that knows how to make a crowd sway, sing, and feel right at home.
The Details
- ●Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025
- ●Time: 4:30 PM
- ●Location: 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Kohala
- ●Price: Free
Bring a light layer for that Kohala evening breeze, your appetite, and your holiday spirit. Cowboy hats welcome, boots optional.
Insider Tips
- ●Arrive a little early: golden hour at A-Bay is pure magic for photos.
- ●Parking: Give yourself extra time—Waikoloa can be busy during the holidays.
- ●Best seats: If you love music, sit within earshot of the stage but not right next to the speakers—perfect for talk-story.
- ●What to wear: Resort-casual is perfect. Think flowy dress or aloha shirt and comfy slippers.
- ●Allergies or special diets? Chat with staff early; they’re great at guiding you to the right picks.
Why We Love It
It feels like a backyard pāʻina, but leveled up: kiawe smoke in the air, that buttery snap of lobster, and the kind of music that makes you grab your partner’s hand. It’s festive without the fuss, local without being exclusive, and absolutely perfect for keiki, kupuna, and everyone in between. This is how holidays on the Kohala coast should taste—and sound.
FAQ
- ●Is it family-friendly? Yes—there are fun, interactive activities for all ages and tons of space for keiki to wiggle.
- ●Do I need to dress up? Not at all. Resort-casual is the move. Bring a light sweater for the evening breeze.
- ●What about weather? It’s outdoors; a light sprinkle can happen. A layer or small umbrella never hurts.
- ●Cash or card? Bring a card for drinks or add-ons; island-inspired beverages are available.
- ●Seating: First-come, first-served. Arrive on the early side if you want to be close to the music.
See you under the stars
Ready to make your Saturday sparkle? Bring your ʻohana, come hungry, and let the music do the rest. We’ll be the ones with sauce on our fingers and smiles for days. get tickets/RSVP →
Discover More Events
Browse the full Big Island events calendar for everything happening on the island
