20 holiday events around Big Island for Dec. 11-18: Punalights, Christmas hoedown, Waikōloa Christmas Parade plus a lot more

The holidays are in full swing around the Big Island, with another week of a variety of events, activities, concerts, performances and more in celebration of the season.

Whether you’re looking for a light show that has people smiling so much their faces get sore, a paniolo-style party full of festive fun, more holiday markets with gift options perfect for anyone, additional Christmas parade marchers or a break from the hustle and bustle with some great live holiday music — including a show featuring Grammy winner Kalani Pe‘a — you definitely have options.

So, without further adieu, here are 20 more holiday events happening around the Big Island for Dec. 11-18.

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Punalights

When: 7 to 9 p.m. everyday through Dec. 31

Where: 15-2053 18th Ave., Kea‘au

Making Puna brighter one bulb — one pixel — at a time and perpetuating the Christmas and aloha spirit through lights and music. Don’t miss the 18th annual light show that has people’s faces sore from smiling so much. Donations for The Food Basket, Hawai‘i Island’s food bank, also are appreciated but not required. More info: Call 808-747-4997 or email to soshiro@gmail.com.

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“A Christmas Carol”

When: 6 p.m. Dec. 11; 3 p.m. Dec. 12

Where: East Hawai‘i Cultural Center, 141 Kalākaua St., Hilo

Eighth-graders from Mālamalama Waldorf School bring to stage their version of this classic Charles Dickens holiday tale. Suggested donation of $5 to $10. Tickets are available at Basically Books in Hilo and at the school.

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West Hawai‘i Explorations Academy Makers Market

When: Noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 12

Where: West Hawai‘i Explorations Academy, 73-4500 Kāhilihili St., Kailua-Kona

Family and friends are invited to this entrepreneurial holiday market hosted by students. Don’t miss the chance to come check out their unique creations that are sure to make great gifts this holiday season. Shop local and support the students. Free admission. More info: Email to danika.aiello@whea.net or anne@whea.net.

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Holiday Events at Queens’ Marketplace

When: Dec. 12-13

Where: Queens’ Marketplace, 69-201 Waikōloa Beach Drive, Waikōloa

Big Island families are invited for photos with Santa on Dec. 12-13 for free. Just bring your own camera and meet St. Nick from 5 to 8 p.m. at the grand Christmas tree. “The Santa Clause” will be the featured festive flick for the first free ‘Ohana Movie Night of the season at 6 p.m. Dec. 13. Bring your favorite blanket or beach chair and enjoy the movie with the family at the Coronation Pavilion. Special live performances also are planned from 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 12 featuring Hawai‘i Irish Dance and 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 14 with Honoka‘a Jazz Band. More info: Contact Queens’ Marketplace at 808-886-8822 or visit the shopping center website.

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Rockin’ The Rock

When: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 12

Where: Koa’s Lounge, 15-2929 Pāhoa Village Road, Pāhoa

Come ring in the holiday season with some cool classic tunes during this Christmas rock party will feature music from The Who, Rolling Stones, The Doors, Tull, Eric Clapton, The Animals, Pink Floyd, The Grateful Dead, Cream, Neil Young and a lot more of your favorite rock bands. No cover.

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Kalani Pe‘a Hawaiian Christmas Show

When: 7 p.m. Dec. 12

Where: Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Waimea

Celebrate the warmth and wonder of the season with four-time Grammy winner Kalani Pe‘a, one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved voices, as he blends western holiday classics with Hawaiian favorites. This show promises a joyful, bilingual celebration of aloha, culture and Christmas spirit. Tickets start at $40. More info/tickets: Visit the Kahilu Theatre website.

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Holiday Gift Show

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: Kamuela Hardwoods, 67-1140 Lindsay Road, Waimea

This holiday showcase and collection will surely have something special for everyone. It is indeed the most wonderful time of the year when you can find locally sourced alpaca wool and yarn, Artisans HUI and their artwork, floral prints by Ajna Lichau, locally grown lumber and wood slabs, charcuterie boards and tree ornaments, plus much more. More info: Visit the Kamuela Hardwoods website or call the office at 808-731-9924.

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Waikōloa Christmas Parade and Keiki Fest

When: 10 a.m. Dec. 13; Keiki Fest from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Parade route is along Paniolo Road, from Lāʻie Street to Waikōloa Elementary and Middle School in Waikōloa; Keiki Fest is at the school, located at 68-1730 Hoʻokō St.

Don’t miss this awesome parade to help bring in the season followed by a festival full of fun for the entire family. There will be craft booths, games, free hot dogs, photos with Santa and a Santa’s Gift Giveaway. More info: Contact Chris Morris at 408-505-1111 or Sue Sorbets at 808-989-0215 for parade and vendor information and Sheryll at 808-345-4956 for festival information.

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2025 Leilani Christmas Market

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: Leilani Estates Community Center Pavilion, 13-3442 Moku St., Leilani Estates

A variety of wonderful locally made items that will be perfect to find the right gift for anyone. Featuring arts and crafts, holiday treats, plants and much more, too. Bring your own bag. Music by Leilani’s own Puna Dirt Road Band, and there’s a playground available for the keiki. More info: Visit the Art in Leilani website.

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“Grab ‘N Go” Society of Waimea Mahalo Holiday Lunch

When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: Lawn fronting Waimea’s “Friendly Fridge” and Waimea Preservation Association’s historic cottage, adjacent to Firehouse Gallery

Lunch hosted by HELP, a Waimea nonprofit “Honoring Every Living Person.” Waimea is blessed with kōkua addressing the food needs of the community by many residents, faith groups, businesses, schools, clubs and nonprofits, including those in support of “The Friendly Fridge.” More info: Email to 808donni@gmail.com.

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Hāmākua Christmas Hoedown

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: Rose Andrade Correia Arena, 45-3257 Hawaiʻi Belt Road, Honoka‘a

Live country music, more than 30 craft and food vendors, pictures with Santa, line dancing, keiki fundraisers, gift-wrapping station, giveaways, get your keiki ID, pony rides, petting zoo, paniolo keiki activities and more all for free admission to celebrate the holidays paniolo style.

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To: “Kids From 1-92” – An Interactive Christmas Celebration

When: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 13-14

Where: Hilo Woman’s Club, 7 Lele St., HIlo

Come uplift the next chapter of faith, education, community and leadership, one song and smile at a time. There will be a dessert bar, silent auction, games and live music. Featuring The Alphatones and vocal performances by Jackie Gomes and special guests Dennis and Sandie Alstrand. Tickets are $25 at the door; keiki 17 and younger are $10. Limited seating.

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Holiday Happenings at Kona Commons Shopping Center

When: 3 p.m. Dec. 13; 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 15

Where: Kona Commons, 74-5444 Makala Boulevard, Kailua-Kona

Kona Commons is all decked out in holiday style — a merry island wonderland, where twinkling lights, festive music and even a little snowfall. Be on the lookout Dec. 13 for costumed characters parading through the shopping center, greeting shoppers and spreading holiday cheer. Bring the entire ‘ohana for festive melodies Dec. 15 as Kona Choral Society fills the air with sounds of the season. More info: Visit the Kona Commons website.

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Holiday Singles Mixer

When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: Uila Records, 65-1227 Opelo Road, Waimea

Are you single and ready to jingle? Mixer for hetero singles between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. Women’s slots are already full, but there’s still some room for more guys. Don’t miss this fun way to meet people on the island for friendships, networking and dating. Cost is $30, which includes a drink ticket and pupu buffet. More info/RSVP: Email to breezymealshi@gmail.com.

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Hilo Calls: A Retro Radio Revue

When: 2 p.m. Dec. 14

Where: The Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostle, 1407 Kapi‘olani St., Hilo

Presented by Hilo Community Chorus accompanied by pianist Walter Greenwood and under the direction of artistic director Maika‘i Nash. Come enjoy some amazing music with several featured acts, guest performances and more, plus a cup of hot chocolate. Free admission; however, donations are welcome. More info: Visit the Hilo Community Chorus website.

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Winter Wonderland: Holiday Celebrations through Dance, Drama, and Song

When: 4 p.m. Dec. 14

Where: Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Waimea

Let your spirits soar during this Prince Dance Institute enchanting production as it once again embarks on a spectacular journey through the world’s winter celebrations. It promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, so bring your loved ones and share in the wonder, excitement and beauty. Tickets start at $28. More info/tickets: Visit the Kahilu Theatre website.

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28th annual Community Christmas Music Festival

When: 6 p.m. Dec. 14

Where: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Waimea Chapel, 65-1160 Kapi‘olani Road, Waimea

Join the celebration with family and friends for an evening of beautiful Christmas music by various choirs and groups from throughout the community. The grand finale will be a combined performance of “The Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s “The Messiah.” Refreshments will be served following the concert.

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The Moor, The Merrier: A Holiday Orchestra Showcase

When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15

Where: Hilo High School Auditorium, 556 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo

Featuring Holst’s “Moorside Suite,” Dvořák and Karłowicz favorites, lively fiddle tunes, fast-paced “Coiled!” and festive holiday music. Join Orchid Isle Orchestra, Hilo High School Orchestra and Young Music Studio musicians to celebrate the season. Free admission.

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South Kohala Police Sugar Showdown Gingerbread House Building Contest

When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 17

Where: Parker Ranch Center, Food Court, 67-1185 Māmalahoa Highway, Waimea

This free family event promises to build stronger ‘ohana one gingerbread house at a time! All supplies provided. Limited to the first 40 keiki (with a parent) to register. There will be hot cocoa, too, and prizes of course. Pre-registration is required. Stop by the Waimea Police Station to pick up an application.

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A Time to Believe

When: 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 17

Where: Hawai’i County Building, 25 Aupuni St., Hilo

Experience an evening of the magic of the season, especially for children and youth with special health needs and people with disabilities. There will be holiday lights and decorations aplenty, plus a special visit from Santa and his elves in a low-stimulated area. More info: Contact Hawai’i County Mayor Kimo Alameda’s office at 808-961-8211.

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Check for yourself to see what’s happening around the Big Island

We admit. As hard as we tried this week, we still likely didn’t find every holiday event happening around the Big Island, and we can’t fit everything going on each week in our entertainment roundup. 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.

• Willy’s Hot Chicken, Kailua-Kona: https://willieshotchicken.com/
• 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/