As the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, Kauai is brimming with untamed beauty, a rich history, and a strong sense of culture. When the residents of Kauai decide to celebrate, they do it in style! Offering an array of incredible festivals year-round, there’s always something to do in Kauai, no matter what season you decide to visit during. Learn more below!

There’s Fun to Be Had at the Top Kauai Festivals All Year Long

The Obon Dance and Festival, held during nine weekends from early June to early August, is a traditional Japanese cultural ceremony in which dancers in kimonos and taiko drummers honor the dead. There are also arts and crafts, games, and food during this top Kauai festival.

Old Koloa Town hosts a gathering with live entertainment, food, and a ceremonial parade dedicated to Koloa’s heritage during the Koloa Plantation Days Celebration. Held in July each year, this festival gives visitors a taste of Kauai’s deep cultural connection.

In the first weekend of August each year, Kapaa Beach Park holds a two-day festival dedicated to Tahitian culture known as Heiva I Kauai. The festivities include Tahitian dancing competitions for children and adults in solo and group categories, as well as Tahitian drumming. Tahitian arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, and food are also sold onsite by vendors. Admission costs a mere $7.00 per person, with children ages 12 and under admitted for free.

September’s last full week brings on the Kauai Mokihana Festival, which begins with Hawaiian church services at the historic Kapa’a First Hawaiian Church and includes a variety of competitions and workshops in music, hula dancing, and Hawaiian culture all week long in Lihue, Kauai. General admission tickets for most events are $25.00 per person at the door and $20.00 if purchased in advance, with free admittance for children under 6 years old. A pass for all of the events can be purchased for $75.00.

On the first weekend of October, visitors can pay $5.00 to enter the annual Coconut Festival at Kapaa Beach Park, where there is live music, taiko drummers, hula dancers, and coconut-themed arts, crafts, and foods. During that same weekend, a free event honoring Kauai’s beloved king Kaumuali’I is held at the old Waimea Sugar Mill, called He Inoa No Kaumuali’I Ho’olaule’a. During this festival, the traditional food, dances, music, arts, and crafts of Kauai are all celebrated.

Also in October is the Eo E Emalani I Alakai Festival in Kokee State Park, which commemorates Queen Emma’s journey through the swamp and forest of Alakai with a three-day hula competition.

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Contact our team of reservation specialists to find out more about these exciting Kauai festivals, as well as other uniquely wonderful activities and sights in Hawaii, when you reserve your stay in one of our stunning vacation rental properties today!