Top 10 things to do on Big Island for March 21-27: ‘The Little Mermaid,’ Big Island Art Fair, Inspiration of Unity and more
Big Islanders are invited to flip their fins over to the historic Palace Theater in Hilo beginning this weekend and dive under the sea for an enchanting experience as they follow Ariel’s journey from longing for a life as part of that world above the waves to fearing she’ll become one of Ursula’s poor unfortunate souls before she gets her voice back, Prince Eric kisses the girl and the princess ulitmately realizes her dream.
The Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre musical production of Disney’s beloved classic “The Little Mermaid” debuts this Friday for a 3-week run, and it’s a show you don’t want to flounder around and miss.
Once you’re done having fun down where its wetter with the seafolk, there’s plenty of other events and activities happening around the island that there’s sure to be something to float everybody’s boat, from tadpoles to even the most seasoned of groupers.
Art lovers will find works in a variety of mediums to peruse and purchase during the Big Island Art Fair that continues through Saturday at Kahilu Town Hall in Waimea. You can also catch live tapings of the flagship Hawai’i Public Radio programs “The Conversation” and “Kanikapila Sunday” on Friday at Waimea’s Kahilu Theatre.
If you’re still in the north part of the island or happen to want to take a trip, Kamuela Philharmonic will perform an afternoon of inspirational American music featuring iconic classics and fresh perspectives on the Kahilu Theatre stage Sunday in Waimea.
Get transported to a world of sonic bliss and Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing fusion of sounds and lights during an unforgettable night of dancing and connection Saturday at Kalani Oceanside Retreat in Kalapana Seaview Estates.
Here’s our top 10 things to do on the Big Island for for March 21-27.
No. 1 — Big Island Art Fair (Waimea, March 21-22)
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Location: Kahilu Town Hall, 67-1182 Lindsey Road
This showcase of art for sale features work from about 20 local artists in a variety of mediums. Artists can also participate in the “Creepy and Crawly Chronicles: The Wild and Wondrous World of Hawai‘i’s Tiny Travelers” contest, celebrating the bugs, amphibians and all little creatures of Hawai‘i. Art demonstrations are part of the weekend, too, and food is available. Fair starts Thursday.
For more info: Visit the Big Island Art Fair website, follow the art fair on Facebook or email to contact@bigislandartfair.com.
No. 2 — “The Little Mermaid” (Hilo, March 21-April 6)
When: 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays; doors, box office and concessions open 1 hour prior to each showtime
Location: Palace Theater, 38 Haili St.
Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre brings this timeless Disney classic to life on the historic Palace Theater stage with breathtaking performances, stunning visuals and all the beloved show’s unforgettable music. Can Ariel win Prince Eric’s heart, regain her voice and defeat Ursula? Advance tickets are $15 for keiki 12 and younger, $20 general admission and $30 for priority reserved seating. All tickets, except keiki tickets, are $5 more the day of the show.
For more info or to purchase tickets: Visit the Palace Theater website.
No. 3 — Hawai‘i Public Radio Live at Kahilu featuring “The Conversation” and “Kanikapila Sunday” (Waimea, March 21)
When: 7 p.m.
Location: Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road
“The Conversation” host Catherine Cruz sits down with author and longtime Parker Ranch veterinarian Dr. Billy Bergin. She also chats with Dr. Patrick Hart, principal investigator at the bioacoustics lab at University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. Then, “Kanikapila Sunday” host Keali‘iloma will talk story with Hilo singer-songwriter Kainani Kahaunaele. Improve your experience before the show with a VIP meet-and-greet with the hosts. Tickets are $36.
More info or to purchase tickets: Visit the Kahilu Theatre website.
No. 4 — Hoaloha “Beloved Friend” (Kalapana Seaview Estates, March 22)
When: 5:30 to 10 p.m.
Location: Kalani Oceanside Retreat, 12-6870 Kalapana-Kapoho Road
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing fusion of sounds during this unforgettable night of dancing and connection as you’re transported to a world of sonic bliss by SAVEJ and SPROCKET. Also get an amazing visual experience, enjoy tonic elixirs along with organic food and chocolate while you chill at the mystic tea lounge. The event is alcohol and substance free. Come with an open heart, ready to listen, move and receive. Free for Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians), otherwise three donation tiers in advance, starting at $30. Tickets might not be available at the door.
For more info or to buy tickets: Click here.
No. 5 — Veterans Luncheon (Hilo, March 23)
When: 1 p.m.
Location: Hilo Elks Lodge #759, 150 Kino‘ole St.
This special event honors the brave men and women who served and protected the nation, our rights and our freedom. There will be a scrumptious selection of main and side dishes free for veterans and only $5 for their guests and any community members who want to come show their support. Bingo games will follow. Parking is available behind the building off ʻUlulani Street. Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP.
For more info or to RSVP: Call Tantra at 808-430-7324 or email to gharrial@gmail.com.
No. 6 — Inspiration of Unity (Waimea, March 23)
When: 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road
This MasterWorks Concert presented by Kamuela Philharmonic promises an inspirational afternoon of American music featuring iconic classics and fresh perspectives. Don’t miss this extraordinary performance, where classical music, jazz and the enduring spirit of American resilience come together in a compelling musical celebration on Hawai‘i Island. Tickets start at just $24.
For more info or to purchase tickets: Visit the Kamuela Philharmonic website.
No. 7 — Open Sauna (Kalapana Seaview Estates, March 24)
When: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Location: Blue Dragon Hot Yoga, 12-294 E. Pōhakupele Loop
Add some heat to your personal yoga practice every Monday and Friday. All styles welcome. The room temperature will gradually increase during the first hour to 103 degrees. Practice self-led yoga in the infrared sauna, perfect for detoxifying the body, increasing flexibility and allowing a deeper workout. Cost is $7 per person. Towel rental available for $2 each.
More info or to RSVP: Contact Simona at 808-938-0516.
No. 8 — Cola-Dab (Hawaiian Paradise Park, March 24)
When: 4 to 8 p.m.
Location: Kipaipai Art Foundation, 15-1963 4th Ave.
Bring a friend, bring some snacks, bring art you’re working on and bring your own materials or not. It doesn’t matter. Just come. Show up. No skills necessary. No materials needed. Come hang out. Meet some great people, create some art together and learn about collaborating. Everyone is welcome. Hosted monthly.
More info: Email to Kipaipaiart@gmail.com or visit the event page on Facebook.
No. 9 — Community Film Night and Special Dinner (Hilo, March 25)
When: 5 to 9 p.m.
Location: ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, 600 ‘Imiloa Place
Don’t miss this memorable evening of a unique film screening and delicious dinner experience inspired by locally-grown and ancestral ingredients. “‘Ai: Privileges and Responsibilities of Eating” features highlights from the second Mo‘olelo Matters Speaker Series followed by a conversation with speakers from the series. Dinner, which costs $100 per person, consists of a specially-crafted tasting menu and wine pairing inspired by the film and prepared by 2025 James Beard Award finalist Chef Keoni Regidor.
More info or to purchase tickets: Click here.
No. 10 — Open Jam Night (Pāhoa, March 25)
When: 6 to 9 p.m.
Location: Koa’s Lounge, 15-2929 Pāhoa Village Road
Koa’s Lounge transforms into a hub of live music, creativity and good vibes every Tuesday. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, an aspiring artist or just a fan of great tunes, this is the perfect place to connect, perform and enjoy an evening of spontaneous collaboration. Bring your own instrument or borrow one, with a full backline of mics, amps and drums provided. There’s drink specials and handcrafted food to fuel your inspiration, too. No cover charge. Come play, sing or just vibe.
More info: Visit the Koa’s Lounge website, email to info@koaslounge.com, call 808-965-6644 and follow the lounge on Facebook and Instagram.
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Want to check for yourself what’s happening?
We admit. We can’t fit everything going on each week in our top 10. So here are websites for some popular Big Island venues that you can peruse to discover other events, activities, shows, festivals or workshops that pique your interest.
- Aloha Theatre, Kealakekua: https://apachawaii.org/
- Blue Dragon Tavern, Kawaihae: https://www.bluedragontavern.com/
- Donkey Mill Art Center, Hōlualoa: https://donkeymillartcenter.org/
- East Hawai‘i Cultural Center, Hilo: https://ehcc.org/
- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm
- Hilo Town Market, Hilo: https://hilotownmarket.co/events
- Hilo Town Tavern, Hilo (on Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041333509786
- Honoka‘a People’s Theatre, Honoka‘a: https://www.honokaapeople.com/
- Kahilu Theatre, Waimea: https://kahilu.org/
- Keauhou Shopping Center, Kailua-Kona: https://keauhoushoppingcenter.com/experience/
- Kona Commons, Kailua-Kona: https://www.konacommons.com/events
- Lava Shack, Pāhoa (on Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/lavashackpahoa/?hl=en
- Lyman Museum, Hilo: https://lymanmuseum.org/
- MyBar Kona, Kailua-Kona: https://www.mybarkona.com/
- Palace Theater, Hilo: https://hilopalace.com/
- University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Performing Arts Center, Hilo: https://artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu/
- Volcano Art Center, Volcano: https://volcanoartcenter.org/
- Wailoa Center, Hilo: https://www.wailoacenter.com/
- Willy’s Hot Chicken, Kailua-Kona: https://willieshotchicken.com/
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