Explore 15 Big Island cultural gems this week (Dec 20–27)

Feels like: mele on the breeze and twinkle lights in the palms

Big Island scene

Cool trades are back, the nights are crisp, and the island’s dressed in holiday sparkle. Picture keiki laughter and the sound of ʻukulele drifting makai as you tuck into cocoa under the stars. That’s the vibe this week, from the joyful nostalgia of A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!) at 67-1186 Lindsey Road to a full-house chorus in Hilo.

Ever wanted to be the choir? The free 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah at Church of the Holy Cross turns the whole room into harmony — goosebumps when “Hallelujah” rises, guaranteed. And if you like your holidays with a wink, Tease the Season - An Aerial Burlesque Cabaret brings high-flying artistry and playful glamour to the historic Palace Theater.

3 must-feel moments this week

• ●The warm glow of childhood: A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!) brings Snoopy, Linus, and that tiny tree to life. You’ll leave humming and smiling all the way home.
• ●Community in full voice: At the free 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah at Church of the Holy Cross, seasoned singers and first-timers blend into one uplifting ʻohana.
• ●Sparkle and soar: Tease the Season - An Aerial Burlesque Cabaret at Palace Theater pairs acrobatics with holiday mischief — the kind of show you talk about all week.

Vibes for every mood (Dec 20–27)

Craving kanikapila at sunset? The free Kanikapila Monthly Concert Series at 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Dr brings island talent and slack-key sweetness; pair it with a seaside stroll for peak pau hana. For hands-in-the-ʻāina energy, wander the lanes at the bustling Maku'u Market at 'O Maku'u Ke Kahua and the afternoon East Hawaii MAKERS MARKET at 15-859 Kahakai Blvd. Pāhoa — perfect for last-minute, actually-local gifts.

Want to move your body? Step into rhythm at Hula Ola (Monday) at Hawaiian Sanctuary and feel the heartbeat of the island through dance. The free Weekly Hula shows light up Coronation Pavilion and also 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Dr — kahiko to ʻauana, with live pahu and graceful mele.

Hawaii Island atmosphere

Learning something new this week? The free Ukulele Lessons with Kris Fuchigami at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive are taught by a 3x Nā Hōkū Hanohano winner, with ʻukuleles provided. Keep the groove going at Kanakapila Hawaiian Music on 168 Keawe Street — over a decade of Tuesday-night mele in Hilo town.

Market lovers, you’re covered midweek too: Pukalani Midweek Market at 67-139 Pukalani Rd. Waimea brings fresh produce, music, and crafts, while the free The Queens’ Culinary Market at 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. Waikoloa sets a tasty Thursday with local bites, makers, and live tunes. If sunrise flow is your jam, Yoga on the Beach with Calley O'Neill at Lava Lava Beach Club at Anaehoʻomalu (A-Bay) Beach is a gentle, full-body elixir by the water. And for a creative curveball, Improv Comedy Class at 15-1601 4th Street is a playful workshop to shake off holiday stress.

Where do you see yourself?

• ●ʻOhana fun: A Charlie Brown Christmas (Live on Stage!), the free Weekly Hula , and markets stacked with keiki treats.
• ●Chill vibes: Free kanikapila sets, oceanfront flow at Yoga on the Beach with Calley O'Neill, and Thursday tastings at the free The Queens’ Culinary Market. Find more live music events.
• ●Makers & munchies: Maku'u Market, East Hawaii MAKERS MARKET, and Pukalani Midweek Market . Browse more farmers market events.
• ●Culture seekers: Dance at Hula Ola (Monday), sing at the free 16th Annual Hilo Community SingAlong Messiah, and connect at the free Kanikapila Monthly Concert Series.

Take a light jacket for those mauka showers, bring small bills for market aunties, and pack a pareo for sandy sunset seats. If you go, go with aloha — mahalo for supporting our kumu, artists, and ʻohana this season.

Ready for more? Come wander the full lineup and explore more cultural events →. Or cruise everything happening island-wide and browse more events →.