4 July | Parker Ranch Rodeo
Celebrate the legacy of Hawai‘i’s paniolo and the island’s deep-rooted ranching culture at the 62nd Annual July 4 Rodeo and Horse Races at the Parker Ranch Arena in Waimea.
Gates open at 7:30 a.m., with the grand entry beginning at 9:00 a.m. In addition to the rodeo action, attendees can enjoy local food and craft vendors, keiki activities, and commemorative memorabilia available at the Parker Ranch merchandise booth.
New this year, the celebration will continue beyond the rodeo with live music from the Lim Ohana, Kalapana Awa Band, and Ekolu from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Guests are invited to stay and enjoy the festivities through the evening.
For information and tickets, Parker Ranch’s July 4th Rodeo | Parker Ranch
11 July | Hilo Brewfest
Sample craft beers from around the country and taste food from local restaurants on the Big Island from 1-5 p.m. on the oceanside grounds of the Hilo Yacht Club. There will be live music, featuring Sudden Rush. Attendees must be 21 years or older and must present a valid ID at the gate. No children and no backpacks are allowed. Ticket sales, sponsorships and donations will benefit charities supported by the Rotary Club of Hilo. There is no parking at the Hilo Yacht Club, but there is a free Bus Shuttle at Hilo Civic Butler Building to and from the event, and a ride share drop-off and pick-up is also offered. Visit hilobrewfest.com for more information.
25 July & 26 July | 7th Annual Experience Volcano Festival
For two days, the cool forests and creative community of Volcano Village will transform into a lively celebration of art, music, food, and local culture. Each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. local artists, musicians, restaurants, and cultural practitioners gather to offer a free, family-friendly weekend. Festival activities will span the entire Volcano community, with a vibrant concentration in the heart of historic Volcano Village. More than 50 scheduled events will take place throughout the weekend, including tours, workshops, demonstrations, cultural presentations, art exhibits, live music, and Hawaiian hula performances. ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Runs, which will take place during the morning hours of July 25. Participants can choose between a 5K or half-marathon, and partial road closures will be in effect in the Volcano Village area prior to festival hours for runner safety. For event details and updates, please visit www.experiencevolcano.com
8 August | Hāmākua Jodo Mission 2026 Obon Festival (Bon Dance)
Experience an evening of remembrance, celebration, and community at the Hāmākua Jodo Mission Obon Festival on Saturday, August 8, at the Hāmākua Jodo Mission, Hawaiʻi’s first sanctioned Buddhist temple.
The evening begins with an outdoor gravesite service at 5:00 p.m., followed by an indoor memorial service at 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., the festivities come alive with bon dance, a joyful tradition that celebrates the connection between generations and welcomes the spirits of loved ones back into our hearts.
The evening features:
• Illuminated paper lanterns dedicated to loved ones
• Live taiko drumming by Taishoji Taiko
• Delicious food trucks and tasty treats
• Door prizes, games, and activities for all ages
This free, family-friendly event is open to everyone. The mission is located at 44-2947 Kalōpā Rd., Honokaʻa, HI 96727. For more information, please contact (808) 775-0965 or via email: contact@hamakuajodomission.org
