Your guide to Big Island Art this month: 23 classes, shows, and markets

Ever walked out under a Hilo moon with slack-key guitar floating through the palms? Or felt the hush right before the curtain rises at the Palace? That’s art on Hawaiʻi Island—warm, communal, and soaked in aloha.

Why Big Island art hits different

Here, art isn’t just on the wall. It’s danced, sung, woven, carved, and shared with your whole ʻohana. You’ll find hula telling moʻolelo in open-air pavilions, aerial artists spinning under vintage theater lights, and keiki giggling at onstage holiday magic. With 23 upcoming Art events, the island’s rhythm blends classes, performances, and recurring weekly gatherings where kamaʻāina and visitors create together.

Top upcoming moments you’ll feel in your bones

Craving a spark? Start with spectacle, then slide into hands-on fun.

If you love bold, athletic beauty, the Tease the Season - An Aerial Burlesque Cabaret at the historic Palace Theater is a wild ride—silks, hoop, and flying pole in a cheeky, grown-up holiday mood (18+). The room glows, the crowd laughs, and the performers soar.

For pure cozy nostalgia, A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!) at 67-1186 Lindsey Road brings Vince Guaraldi’s jazz to life. You’ll hum along, then remember why these characters still feel like friends.

Want to be part of the music? The free 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah at the Church of the Holy Cross turns the audience into the choir. Goosebumps when the harmonies rise—promise.

Movie night more your speed? Christmas Movies at Aloha Theatre at 79-7384 Mamalahoa Hwy. keeps the classics rolling for just $10. Old-school Kona vibe, buttered popcorn, and that feeling of watching with neighbors.

Mauka in Puna, the East Hawaii MAKERS MARKET at 15-859 Kahakai Blvd. Pāhoa is a treasure hunt—small-batch ceramics, carved koa, hand-dyed pareo, and fresh pastries at the coffee bar.

For a deep cultural sip, Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center at the Volcano Art Center gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park hosts free demonstrations like lei making and kapa stamping. You’ll learn by watching kūpuna hands move with grace.

Craving weekly rhythm? The free Weekly Hula shows at Coronation Pavilion and at 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Dr bring kahiko and ʻauana to life—mele, pahu, and the sway of pāʻū skirts.

Or jump in yourself: the free Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive are first-come, with instruments on hand; show up early, smile big, and strum. Feeling extra playful? The Improv Comedy Class at 15-1601 4th Street is a Monday night laugh reset.

Key venues (and the vibes that live there)

• ●Palace Theater – Hilo’s vintage jewel. Velvet seats, twinkly marquee, and a community that cheers for daring art and local talent.
• ●Aloha Theatre – Kona’s historic heart for stage and film. Expect friendly volunteers, comfy concessions, and small-town warmth.
• ●Church of the Holy Cross – A welcoming Hilo home for choral traditions, community voices, and holiday harmony.
• ●Kalani – Puna retreat vibes with palms and ocean breeze. A place where workshops feel like mini-retreats.
• ●Volcano Art Center gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park – Misty ohia, bird song, and artists who carry Hawaiian culture in their fingertips.

Insider knowledge from a local friend

• ●Go early for free events. Seating fills fast, especially for hula and ukulele lessons. Bring patience and your best aloha.
• ●Volcano evenings get chilly. Pack a light layer and closed-toe shoes for park elevation.
• ●Markets = cash-friendly. Many makers take cards, but cash and a small tote make shopping smooth.
• ●Theater etiquette. At Palace Theater and Aloha Theatre, silence phones, unwrap snacks before the show, and cheer generously.
• ●Parking can be tight in town. Carpool when you can, and allow 15 extra minutes in Hilo or Kona.
• ●Cultural respect. Ask before taking close-up photos of kumu or hālau. A smile and "mahalo" go a long way.

For different vibes

• ●First-timer picks: Weekly Hula , Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center, Christmas Movies at Aloha Theatre.
• ●Regular favorites: Kanikapila Monthly Concert Series at 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Dr and Kanakapila Hawaiian Music at 168 Keawe Street for chill pau hana tunes.
• ●Budget-friendly (mostly free): Weekly Hula , Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami, Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center, 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah.
• ●Splurge-worthy: Tease the Season - An Aerial Burlesque Cabaret for a classy, daring date night.
• ●ʻOhana-friendly: A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!), Christmas Movies at Aloha Theatre, and the East Hawaii MAKERS MARKET.

FAQ: Art on the Big Island

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  Are these events good for keiki? Yes. Family-friendly picks include A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!), free Weekly Hula , and Christmas Movies at Aloha Theatre.

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  Do I need to bring anything to classes? For Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami, instruments are limited—arrive early. For the Improv Comedy Class, bring water, comfy clothes, and a yes-and attitude.

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  Are there free cultural experiences? Absolutely. Aloha Fridays at Volcano Art Center and Weekly Hula are free. The 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah is also free.

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  Any tips for Volcano events? Even mid-day can be cool and misty. Dress in layers, wear comfy shoes, and give yourself time to explore the gallery grounds.

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  Where can I see what’s on this week and next? We’ve got you. Browse the full list here: explore all Art events →.

Ready to feel the island’s heartbeat in real time? Grab your favorite slippers, bring a friend, and we’ll see you in the crowd—explore all Art events →.