Entertainment

Dillon Ancheta, whose drag persona is Mallibu Del Rey, is one of three finalists hoping to be on stage in April with the first Native Hawaiian transgender person to ever be crowned a winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”

You can pound mochi or enjoy an End of the Year Country Party with Waylon Nihipali in Hilo or participate in any one of the several New Year’s events in the Kailua-Kona area, plus more.

Christmas is almost here and all around the Big Island, there are many events to make your holidays more brightened.

Christmas is less than 2 weeks away and there’s still plenty of holiday cheer to be had around the Big Island.

Experience the joy of singing — or just come listen — during this event that will be filled with uplifting music from Handel’s holiday classic.

In case you’re seeking something else, there’s also a health care talk story event featuring “Seniors in Paradise” host Derek Kurisu, the Celebrate ‘Ohana Festival in Kona, Cherry Poppin’ Daddies live in Hilo and more.

Whether its the 63rd annual Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade, Kailua Village Artists Holiday Receptions or one of the plethora of other events, there’s plenty to do for the whole family

Taking part will be several school’s marching bands, floats of all sizes, walking units from groups throughout the community, motorcades and custom cars, beauty queens, public officials and the Grand Marshal, Hawai‘i Lions District Gov. CJ Kalopodes.

From the Waimea Community Chorus singing in the season, the Downtown Hilo Christmas Light Parade kicking off the Christmas parade season and the annual tree lighting in Kona to a slew of craft fairs and Black Friday deals, not to mention a few Thanksgiving dinners if you don’t want to cook or are looking to meet some new friends, you shouldn’t have any issues finding the right event for you.

From holiday shopping opportunities and Thanksgiving activities to musical theater, art sales, Japanese culture and other events, there’s plenty to do around the island during the next week.

Events include Irish Night on Nov. 15, which will feature film screenings and a performance by Hawai‘i Irish Dance, and a celebration of Indian culture Nov. 16, both at the Manono campus in Hilo.

There’s once again no lack of events, live music and other activities that will keep you occupied.

Whether you’re royalty or not, there will be a fun time had by all as the entire community is transformed into a Renaissance realm.

The 22-year-old from Honoka‘a was crowned winner of the Big Island’s ultimate singing competition Saturday night on the grand stage at Hilo Town Market.

22-year-old Kacy Sanchez of Honoka‘a laid it all out on the grand stage Saturday night at Hilo Town Market to become the winner of the Big Island’s ultimate singing competition.

There are 12 male and four female roles available, ranging in age from their 20s to 70s. The Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre is hosting the auditions at the East Hawai‘i Cultural Center in downtown Hilo.

The six finalists vying for the crown, in no particular order, are Kacy Sanchez, Josh Lozada, Bridge Hartman, Terran “TJ” Kaleiwahea Jr., Teena-Marie Viavia and Loretta “Green Eyes” Lopes.

‘KAPU: Sacred Hawaiian Burials” is a documentary co-produced, directed, edited and created by Keoni Kealoha Alvarez of Puna, who’s road to self-discovery started in an ancient hidden cave.

The next week on the Big Island will once again be bustling with events you won’t want to miss.

Gifted lauhala weavers prepare for the 52nd Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival that runs Nov. 3-12.