KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa returns to Downtown Hilo for 29th annual music festival

Downtown Hilo will come alive Saturday (Jan. 17) as the 29th annual KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa brings the community together for one of Hawaiʻi Island’s most anticipated music and cultural celebrations.

The free, family-friendly festival kicks off at 4:30 p.m. and runs until 10:30 p.m., featuring four stages of continuous live music, performances by more than 20 Hawaiʻi artists and more than 40 local food and craft vendors throughout Downtown.

This year’s lineup features many standout moments and brings together some of the biggest names in island and Hawaiian music.

Among the highlights of this year’s music fest is the first KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa performance by High Watah, a long-anticipated debut for fans around the island. Returning to the Hoʻolauleʻa stage for the first time since 2006 is legendary duo Ho‘onu‘a, reuniting for the event alongside many of Hawaii’s most respected and beloved musicians.

“This event has always been about community, connection and celebrating the music that brings us together,” said New West Broadcasting Corp. President and General Manager and KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa Producer Chris Leonard in an announcement about the event. “Welcoming High Watah to the KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa stage for the first time, bringing Ho‘onu‘a back after nearly 2 decades and being joined by so many of our island’s talented artists means a great deal to us.”

KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa — with nearly 3 decades of tradition — remains Hawaiʻi Island’s largest single-day music festival, drawing residents and visitors alike to Downtown Hilo for an evening of local music, food, culture and connection.

“We’re excited to share another unforgettable night with Hilo and our island ʻohana,” Leonard said.

Visit the KWXX website for full event details and additional information.