Events Today: 18 Can’t-Miss Happenings
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Events Today: 18 Can’t-Miss Happenings

📅January 9, 2026⏱️3 min read✍️Big Island Bulletin

Trade winds, pau hana glow, and music in the palms. From a 10-piece horn ensemble in South Kona to Hilo’s Friday Night Market, tonight on Hawaiʻi Island is alive.

That Friday feeling on Hawaiʻi Island

Big Island scene
Big Island scene

Smell the plumeria after that light Hilo drizzle? Hear the palms whispering it’s time for pau hana? Tonight’s got that “grab a jacket, chase the sunset, and follow the music” vibe.

If you’ve never heard French horns echo through a garden at golden hour, the Hawaii Horn Ensemble in Concert at Paleaku Peace Gardens is pure South Kona magic. Think ocean views, quiet paths, and a 10-person ensemble from 2:00–3:00 pm, all included with $10 garden admission.

3 must-experience moments

The heartbeat of Hilo comes alive at the FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET. From 5:30 pm until pau, it’s ʻohana everywhere—ono grinds, local makers, keiki cruising between booths, and live tunes drifting down Wailuku River breeze. Free to wander, priceless for the vibe.

Craving a grounding start before you dance it all out? Head to the jungle glow of Puna for Bee Dance: Mark Brody + Deepenr (with Sound Healing). Sound healing 6:00–7:00 pm sets the tone, then the dance floor opens—sweat, smiles, and that sweet community buzz.

Earlier today, South Kona stole our hearts with the Hawaii Horn Ensemble in Concert—a perfect mid-afternoon pause before the night ignites. Wander the gardens, then roll into evening with a calm, full heart.

Hawaii Island atmosphere
Hawaii Island atmosphere

Pick your vibe tonight

Live music lovers: Let the medicine music flow at Mary Isis with Special Guests at The Booch Bar Rainbow Room from 6–9 pm—no cover, donations welcome. When you’re ready to turn it up, Hilo’s late-night groove hits with Live Friday Night Music: Rhythm X around 9:30 pm at 168 Keawe Street. Find more live music events.

Culture and story: The Kohala Coast glows under torchlight at the Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au at Mauna Lani—a celebration of Kalāhuipuaʻa where chant, hula, and moʻolelo meet the sea.

Move your body: Down Puna side, play and fly at Partner Acro with Lilia & Wayne at Kalani, 6:45–8:00 pm. Beginners welcome, plenty of laughter guaranteed.

Free and family-friendly: Cruise Hilo’s FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET AT THE HILO TOWN MARKET for a wallet-friendly night with keiki in tow. Snack, shop, talk story, repeat.

See you out there

From horns in a garden to lūʻau by the sea, tonight’s got room for every kamaʻāina and visitor to find their lane. Where are you headed first? If you’re still deciding, come browse the full lineup and pick your adventure: explore more events →

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