Surf sessions, tanning on the sand, and toasting with cocktails at the poolside bar are sure bets in Hawai‘i. Once you’ve gotten your fill, these community events, performances, and parties are perfect outings for the socialite or curious traveler.
Mango Festival | Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa (Hawai‘i) | Aug. 1, 10 a.m. –5 p.m.
Taste a variety of mango grown on the island and participate in agricultural exhibits, dance, hula, and music for both adults and the keiki at this zero-waste event.
Heiva I Kaua‘i | Kapaa Beach Park (Kaua‘i) | Aug. 1 & 2 | $6
This year is the 14th year of this Tahitian dance and drumming competition. Between shows, enjoy local food and Polynesian crafts while watching Pacific Island art and culture demonstrations. Children under 6 admitted for free.
Beer Bust | Bacchus Waikiki (O‘ahu) | Aug. 2, 2 p.m.
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Honolulu is holding a summer celebration, complete with BBQ food, drinks, a raffle, and a visit from a mystery massage artist. The first beer is $5, with $2 refills and $1 Jell-O shots.
Blazing Saddles Hawaii | Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse Ballroom (O‘ahu) | Tuesdays, 6:30–9:15 p.m.
Kick off your Sunday shoes for Hawaii LGBT and straight community social dance night. Dances include line dancing, two-step, waltzes, swing, and more. Free dance lessons are offered between 6:30 and 7 p.m.
Obon Dance & Festival | Hamakua Jodo Mission (Hawai‘i) | Aug. 8, 6:30–10 p.m.
Join residents and tourists alike in dancing to welcome back the spirits of departed loved ones in this Buddhist traditional festival. Note: These festivals take place around the islands through September, look for posted signs.
Art by DE Silent Auction | Mark’s Garage (O‘ahu) | Aug. 8, 6–8 p.m.
Original works by artist De Chambs will be up for silent auction while live music plays. A portion of the proceeds will go to Rainbow Family 808, who will use the funds to provide fresh food and dairy for Youth Outreach Waikiki. Appetizers and open bar provided.
LGBT Iao Valley Hike | Queen Kaahumanu Mall Starbucks (Maui) | Aug. 8, 8:30 a.m.
Carpool to the forests of Iao Valley and embark on a 4 mile hike rising 971 feet up the mountain. The hike is of moderate difficulty and should wrap up around 12:30 p.m.
RSVP at [email protected]
Art + Flea Sunday Funday Market | Ward Warehouse (O‘ahu) | Aug. 10, 10 a.m. –3 p.m.
Shop for art, clothes, décor, and more at this outdoors gathering of dozens of Hawai‘i’s local small business owners. Bring your best walking shoes, because there are also the brick-and-mortar shops and eateries surrounding the market.
Bear Boat | Bacchus Waikiki (O‘ahu) | Aug. 9, noon | $40
Join the LGBT community aboard a catamaran for a one and a half hour cruise along the coast of Waikiki. Sign up is at noon at Bacchus and the boat leaves Waikiki Beach at 12:30 p.m.
Great Hawaiian Food Truck Festival | Kalakaua Avenue (O‘ahu) | Aug. 15, 5–10 p.m.
Taste a variety of local and international cuisines at this food truck rally. Once your belly is full, check out the entertainment on three stages and participate in arts and crafts. A portion of the proceeds will be given to charities.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival | Kapiolani Bandstand (O‘ahu) | Aug. 16, 12–6 p.m.
Slack key guitars, which produce a soulful, sweet melody, originated in Hawai‘i. Listen to Hawaiian-inspired songs while eating local food and creating island crafts.
Rainbow Dine-Out Group | Gannon’s (Maui) | Aug. 18, 6–8 p.m.
Meet both local and visiting LGBT ohana for a delicious meal at Gannon’s, voted one of the Top 100 Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in America by Business Insider. Enjoy contemporary dishes on an outdoor lanai overlooking the ocean.
North Hawai’i Hospice Floating Lantern Ceremony | The Fairmont Orchid (Hawai‘i) | Aug. 23, 5–7:30 p.m.
Decorate and light a lantern, then float it into Pauoa Bay while Taiko drummers, chanting, and Buddhist prayers fill the air at sunset. Food and beverages will be available.
GirlBoiGrrl Gold Party | Hula’s Waikiki (O‘ahu) | Aug. 29, 10 p.m. | $10
Break out your best gold burlesque outfit for this drag show featuring live music and a costume contest. Doors open at 9 p.m. Bar tabs and VIP seating available for extra charge.
The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival | Hilton Waikoloa Village (Hawai‘i) | Aug. 29, 6 p.m. | $250
Seven illustrious chefs will combine their talent to create a six-course menu, prepared with ingredients local to the island, and served outdoors.