The 14th Annual Wiliwili Festival will be held on Saturday, February 8th from 9:00 am-3:00 pm at the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve. The Wiliwili Festival is a FREE public educational event for the whole family! This year our theme is Laulima – a tribute to the many mentors, leaders, cultural practitioners, scientists, volunteers, students, organizations, and community members who have joined hands to create, nurture, and grow the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve. 

At Hale Hana Hou, within the preserve, there will be a native plant giveaway, and opportunities to ask the experts about plant propagation, growing, and care. The Dusty Donkey Emporium will have a pop-up thrift shop, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Waikōloa Dry Forest merchandise including t-shirts and stickers featuring this year’s beautiful artwork will be available at the informational booth near the preserve entrance. 

Our friends at Hawaii Forest & Trail will offer guided tours of the forest every hour. HFT’s knowledgeable guides have become ambassadors of our forest and helped collect millions of native seeds through their weekly giveback tour that visits the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve. Hiking, exploration, and self-guided tours are encouraged and docents will be available to help orient guests and answer questions. 

About the site: The Wiliwili Festival is held within a natural area with few improvements. Participants will be outside and walking along a gravel road and uneven terrain on hiking trails. Please come prepared with a refillable water bottle, sun protection, and solid footwear. 

Parking: Park at the Waikōloa Plaza main parking lot and take a complimentary shuttle to the preserve! Limited on-site parking will also be available and golf cart shuttles will run between the parking area and the preserve’s front gate throughout the day. On-Site Parking

Join us after the festival for a free Pau Hana Community Concert at the Waikōloa Stables from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. This special evening event will feature a silent auction, delicious pūpū, cash bar, and live music with Kalaʻe & Kalena.  

Funding provided by Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority through the Community Enrichment Program