25 holiday happenings on Big Island for Dec. 18-25: More holiday markets, sing-along, cookie and toy exchanges, Charlie Brown and much more

We’re heading into the homestretch, Big Island, with just a week before Christmas, and there is everything but silent nights — or days — as a flurry of holiday events is again scheduled from one end of the island to the other.

You can stroll through Hāwī in North Kohala for some great Christmas shopping and holiday cheer one day and then attend a toy exchange in Kea‘au the next day. Or spend a day perusing the several holiday markets planned this weekend on the east side of the island and then the next at even more markets on the west side.

There’s a cookie exchange in Honoka‘a and you can catch “A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Musical” in Waimea or shoot down to Hilo and enjoy a Christmas Secret or Christmas Cabaret.

No matter what you choose to do, be sure to fill your last weekend before the big day with some holiday cheer and joy, just to get away from the hustle and bustle of the season and remember what it’s like simply to celebrate.

Check out these 25 holiday happenings on the Big Island for Dec. 18-25.

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Pop-up Festive Gift Market

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 18

Where: Kauna‘oa Ballroom, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive, Kawaihae

Celebrate local creativity and discover unique treasures from Hawai‘i’s finest local vendors, artisans and creators. Find the perfect last-minute gift for someone special. All in the luxurious settings of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Come celebrate the season with style and sophistication.

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Hawaiian Holiday Treasures Fair 2025

When: 1 to 7 p.m. Dec. 19; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 20-21

Where: Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium, 350 Kalanikoa St., Hilo

Celebrate the holiday season Hawaiian style. Experience cultural demonstrations and local art. Find Christmas gifts and handcrafted treasures, including clothing, fashion and home decor. There’s even a wine tasting and gourmet food, plus Hawaiian music and island vibes. Free to attend.

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Hāwī Merry Christmas Stroll

When: 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 19

Where: Throughout Hāwī in North Kohala

Come visit this historic community as stores will stay open late for Christmas shopping and fun. Find great gifts for the entire family, including jewelry, art, toys, clothing, accessories, ornaments, memorabilia and much more. There also will be a Keiki Corner with family crafts, and food vendors offering pupus, drinks, shave ice and other treats. All while music plays in the background. You can even meet Santa at Plantation Market from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

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“A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Musical”

When: 6 p.m. Dec. 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 20

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

Step into the heartwarming world of “Peanuts” this holiday season with a delightful stage adaptation of the 1965 animated classic. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the whole gang as they search for the true meaning of Christmas, complete with a scraggly little tree. More info/tickets: Visit the Kahilu Theatre website.

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Hilo’s Christmas Secret

When: 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 19-20

Where: UFC Gym Hilo, 777 Kino‘ole St., Hilo

A walkthrough wonderland of Christmas — inspired by the stories of the holiday — hosted by Penn Hawai‘i Youth Foundation, Exposed Roots and Lo‘ihi Studios. There also is a scavenger hunt for keiki, food and craft vendors and, of course, a visit by Santa Claus! Cost is $15 for walkthrough; keiki 11 years old and younger free with adult. Other events are free to the public.

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Christmas Cabaret — A Live Holiday Celebration

When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19-20; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 20-21

Where: The Keawe Theater, 280 Keawe St., Hilo

The joy of the season is brought center stage with a sparkling concert of holiday music and performances. Featuring local talent, festive favorites and heartwarming moments. The show is perfect for families, friends and anyone looking to celebrate with a classic dose of Christmas spirit. More info/tickets: Visit the Hilo Community Players website.

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Bah Humbug! — For Those Who Don’t Do Jingles or Bells

When: 10:30 p.m. Dec. 19-20; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21

Where: The Keawe Theater, 280 Keawe St., Hilo

This late-night, adults-only holiday romp is for the holiday skeptic, the comedy lover or anyone craving something a little edgier than carols and cocoa. It delivers a wildly funny collection of songs and seasonal satire. With its grumpy snowman mascot and a well-earned parental advisory, this show is the perfect escape from too much tinsel. More info/tickets: Visit the Hilo Community Players website.

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2025 Makana Market

When: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 20-21

Where: Waikōloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa lobby, 69-275 Waikōloa Beach Drive, Waikōloa

This is a holiday shopping experience you don’t want to miss. Explore the artistry, creativity and originality of more than 25 local artisans as they display an array of handmade goods, artistic designs and unique offerings all perfect for gifts. More info: Call 808-886-6789, extension 7473, or 808-747-1319.

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7th annual Puna Christmas Toy Exchange

When: 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 20

Where: Connections Point Church, 15-1839 32nd Ave., Kea‘au

A toy exchange is a great way to get rid of some of those unused toys while picking up some “new” ones your little one might enjoy at no cost. Bring only clean and disinfected toys, books and games. Gift-wrapping is included. You do not need to bring any toys to take some home. Free — no cost, no stress, just holiday cheer and helping each other out. More info: Contact Connections Point Church at 808-982-5177.

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Honoka‘a Western Week Christmas Cookie Exchange

When: 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 45-5028 Plumeria St., Honoka‘a

Bring 30 cookies or bars, such as brownies, of the same flavor, individually wrapped with a label. Find your space and set them out for the exchange beginning at 2 p.m. Don’t forget your cookie tin to put your new 30 cookies in. Christmas Music, hot cocoa and fellowship follow. More info/register: Click here or call Johnalyn Perreira at 808-987-0356 with any questions.

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Mauna Lani Holiday Market

When: 1 to 6 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Mauna Lani Auberge Resort, lower lobby, 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Kohala Coast

It’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship and holiday cheer. Come out for a festive day of curated local shopping, showcasing a curated collection of more than 30 makers and designers from Hawai‘i Island and O‘ahu, each offering exceptional handcrafted pieces and thoughtfully made gifts.

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16th annual Tom and Emma McAlexander Community Sing-Along “Messiah”

When: 4 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Church of the Holy Cross, 440 W. Lanikaula St., Hilo

Open to seasoned vocalists and enthusiastic first-timers, the sing-along blends performance and participation, transforming the audience into the choir. All are welcome to join this holiday tradition. It’s also OK to just attend and enjoy the music. The free event is co-sponsored by Big Island Singers, Hilo Community Chorus and Church of the Holy Cross.

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Drop and Shop

When: 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Hawai‘i Keiki Museum, 69-250 Waikōloa Beach Drive, K104, Waikōloa

Parents, run your errands or enjoy dinner while your keiki enjoy open play based on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Keiki must be potty-trained. Bring a water bottle and a snack. Free gift-wrapping also available. Cost is $20 per keiki. More info: Visit the Hawai‘i Keiki Museum website.

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Body N Soul — A Holiday Dance Celebration

When: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Lava Lounge, Kīlauea Military Camp, 99-252 Crater Rim Drive, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

Come celebrate the holidays and get your body moving on the dance floor with tunes provided by Sheri Fox on vocals along with Doug Espejo on guitar, Tim DeSilva on bass, Bruce Miyashiro on keys as well as Bruce David on drums, with all of them also providing vocals. Cover charge is just $10.

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2nd annual TEASE The Season

When: 7 p.m. Dec. 20

Where: Palace Theater, 38 Haili St., Hilo

This cheeky holiday aerial cabaret once again promises an evening of high flying acrobatics and playful burlesque, suitable for audiences 18 years and older. General admission is $27; priority orchestra seating is $42; all tickets are $5 more on the day of the show. More info/tickets: Visit the Palace Theater website.

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Visit Santa! — Free Photo Opportunity

When: 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 21

Where: The Keawe Theater, 280 Keawe St., Hilo

Bring your keiki to meet the jolliest guest of all — Santa Claus! Families are invited to take free photos with Santa on his festive holiday throne. Just bring your camera and your holiday spirit to capture the magic. Donations are welcome to support Hilo Community Players ongoing programs. More info: Visit the Hilo Community Players website.

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‘Ohana Winter Fun at ‘Imiloa

When: Beginning Dec. 21

Where: ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, 600 ‘Imiloa Place, Hilo

Celebrate the season with hands-on holiday fun. ‘Ohana Winter Crafts starts Dec. 21 — drop in from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to create festive keepsakes inspired by Hawaiian flora, enjoy creative activities for all ages and spend time together in the spirit of aloha. Additional activities to be hosted on select dates through Jan. 4, 2026. More info: Visit the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center website.

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Keiki Christmas Party

When: 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 21

Where: Hilo Elks Lodge #759, 150 Kino‘ole St., Hilo

Cookie decorating, ornament making, hot cocoa bar, fun games, Kindness Corner, Santa photo booth, Christmas carols and keiki “shopping” center. Open to keiki in kindergarten through fifth grade. Reserve your spot today! More info/reservations: Call 808-796-3111.

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Holiday Magic Kitten Adoption Event

When: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 21

Where: Kohala Coffee Co., Puna Kai Shopping Center, Pāhoa

Join Volcano Cat Sanctuary for its final kitty adoption event of the year. Meet our delightful kitties — house panthers, fur babies and tiny tigresses — all ready for adoption and pre-adoption. Enjoy cuddles, tiny toe beans and sunlit naps. All just in time to take one of the furballs home for the holidays.

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“Not So Silent Night” Karaoke

When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 21

Where: Sam’s Hideaway, 75-5729 Ali‘i Drive, Kailua-Kona

Dress up in your best fun and festive holiday attire and serenade the crowd with Christmas carols. Prize for best attire. Join the potluck with your favorite holiday dish or yummy dessert. Best Dressed wins a gift card. Drawings on the hour starting at 8:30 p.m., with prizes from local businesses including Sam’s Hideaway, Pueo Boutique, K-Town Tattoo and Poncho & Lefty’s. Karaoke sign-ups at the bar.

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Geode Ornaments

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 22

Where: Hawai‘i Keiki Museum, 69-250 Waikōloa Beach Drive, K104, Waikōloa

Keiki ages 8 to 14 years old are invited to this fun hands-on exploration of rocks and geodes. Learn how to slice it, polish it and take it home. This is sure to be a fun-filled day that rocks! More info/register: Visit the Hawai‘i Keiki Museum website.

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“The Nutcracker Ballet”

When: 5 p.m. Dec. 22

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

West Hawai‘i Dance Theatre lights up the holidays with its interpretation of “The Nutcracker,” performed by nearly 80 local dancers and professional guest artists from New York City Ballet and Las Vegas. Both regular performances are sold out, but the full dress rehearsal is open to a limited audience for a $30 donation per person. All proceeds support West Hawai‘i Dance Theatre & Academy. More info/tickets: Visit the Kahilu Theatre website.

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Kaleo & Kimo’s Kalikimaka Karaoke

When: 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 22

Where: The Keawe Theater, 280 Keawe St., Hilo

A joyful evening of music, laughter and community, singing favorite songs — holiday hits and crowd-pleasers alike. This free festive night is all about sharing aloha and celebrating the season together. Festive drinks and snacks will be available, and while entry is free, donations are always welcome to support Hilo Community Players. All welcome. More info: Visit the Hilo Community Players website.

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Festive Island Breeze Lū‘au

When: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 24-25 and 31

Where: Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, 75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona

Capture the true meaning of ‘ohana this holiday season with a special festive lū‘au. Enjoy enhanced dishes and holiday entertainment for all, perfect for a little family Christmas magic. More info/tickets: Visit the Island Breeze Lū‘au website.

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Christmas Brunch Buffet

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 25

Where: Honu’s on the Beach, Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, 75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona

Celebrate the most magical day of the year with a decadent brunch buffet, featuring a carving station, omelet station, waffle station, crab legs and more. Sip in style with bottomless mimosas and build your own Bloody Mary bar while admiring the island views. Cost is $69. Additional $25 for bottomless mimosas and additional $25 for build-your-own Bloody Mary bar. More info/reservations: Click here.

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Check for yourself what’s happening around the Big Island

We admit. As hard as we try every 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/