Big Island’s Weekend: Heavenly Seasonal Events

Choices, they make the head spin.  This weekend the island offers fine events which include a film fest, fashion show, culinary delights, Christmas ballet and more.

The Christmas Star

Geek out and take part in the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center’s planetarium show, Mystery of the Christmas Star, Friday night. Go back 2,000 years to Bethlehem and apply science to the star the Wise Men followed in search of baby Jesus.

Shows will run each Friday on December 7, 21, and 28 at 7 p.m. at the astronomy center. Tickets cost $10 for non-members and $8 for members. For more information visit www.imiloahawaii.org.

The ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center is located at 600 ‘Imiloa Place in Hilo.

Kona Surf Film Fest

On December 7 and December 8, surf films from Hawai’i and beyond abound at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows from 4 p.m.

This outdoor event will have multiple screenings, live music, food, drinks, art, cool surf items and more. There will also be matinees on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m.

For a schedule of events and ticket information visit www.konasurffilmfestival.org. For further event coverage see the full story on www.bigislandnow.com.

The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows is located at 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive in Kamuela.

Asian Inspired Couture

Anne Namba’s couture Fall and holiday collections will be on display at the Hawai’i Japanese Center on December 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fashion by Anne Namba, courtesy photo from Anne Namba.

A live fashion show will take place at 10 a.m. Event is free and all are welcome to view the Asian inspired designs and kimono couture.

The center is located at 751 Kanoelehua Avenue in Hilo. For more information on the designer, visit www.annenamba.com.

The Nutcracker

Christmas brings dreams of sugar plums and lithe dancers who seemingly float across the stage.

On December 7, 8, and 9, the historic Palace Theater will feature this holiday classic at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The students from the Island Dance Academy aged 5 to 65, will tap dance, twirl and entertain audiences.

Tickets are $10 general and $8 for children aged 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo and the Palace Theater. Visit www.hilopalace.com for more information.

The Palace Theater is located at 38 Haili Street in Hilo.

Dining with the Chefs

Over 20 top chefs tease and satiate the palate at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid on December 8, from 5:30 p.m. Handcrafted ales, wines and Kona coffee will be sipped as live jazz excites the senses and stimulates the appetite. Take part in the live auction and bid on private dinner parties and receptions prepared by local chefs.

This benefit gala provides scholarship assistance to local students specializing in culinary arts. The night’s proceeds will also be directed towards equipping the instruction kitchens at the future Hawai’i Community College at Palamanui.

Amazing gingerbread houses will also be on display, but not for sale. Tickets are $85. For more information visit www.konakohachefs.org, or view the more in depth article on www.bigislandnow.com.

The Fairmont Orchid is located at 1 North Kaniku Drive.