Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative invites the community to fall in love with Hawaiʻi’s native forests at the 15th Annual Wiliwili Festival, taking place on Saturday, February 14th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “Wiliwili LOVE,” celebrates our shared affection for the rare and resilient wiliwili tree with a vibrant celebration of the region’s unique lowland dry forest and its iconic wiliwili tree. 

Festival-goers can enjoy a full day of activities across two event locations at both the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve and Waikōloa Stables. Attendees can explore the forest through guided hikes, participate in hands-on workshops, and visit educational booths hosted by local conservation and cultural organizations. The festival will also feature a native plant giveaway, nursery tours,  presentations, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day outing for all ages.

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 visits to 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. 

Each year, the Wiliwili Festival brings together community members, scientists, educators, and conservation partners to raise awareness about Hawaiʻi’s unique dryland ecosystems and celebrate ongoing restoration efforts. The Wiliwili Love Fest is about more than just our trees; it is also about nurturing the connections between people and place. 

The Wiliwili Festival is made possible through generous community support. Sponsorships and donations help fund this free public event and support ongoing forest restoration throughout the year. To become a festival sponsor or contribute to the cause, visit 

https://kokua.waikoloadryforest.org/a/wiliwilifestival2026

Join us this Valentine’s Day to celebrate “Wiliwili LOVE” — a joyful gathering of conservation, culture, and community in the heart of Waikōloa.

About the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative:
The Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative (WDFI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to protect, promote, and restore native Hawaiian dry forest. Proceeds from the Wiliwili Festival benefit WDFI’s restoration and education programs. Questions can be sent to wdfi@waikoloadryforest.org or visit www.waikoloadryforest.org for more information. 

For more information, visit 

www.waikoloadryforest.org

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 Stables main parking lot and take a complimentary shuttle to the preserve! Limited on-site parking will also be available.

About our Sponsors: Funding is provided by Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority through the Community Enrichment Program. The Wiliwili Festival is also supported by Hawaiʻi Forest & Trail, Hawaiʻi Water Service, Waikōloa Plaza, AES Hawaiʻi, Fairmont Orchid, Makana Incentives, and Queen Construction.