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04/09/2026 - 5:00pm to 04/11/2026 - 5:00pm
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Festivals

A Celebration of Big Island Culture

Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival

If your travels bring you to the Big Island of Hawai‘i in the spring, one of the island’s most beloved cultural events is the Hawai‘i Arts, Crafts & Food Festival — a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that showcases the diversity, creativity, and flavors of Big Island life. Held each year in Hilo’s beautiful Nani Mau Gardens, this three-day festival brings together artisans, food vendors, musicians, and cultural performers from across the island, giving visitors a rich taste of local heritage and craft traditions. 

What the Festival Offers

At the Hawai‘i Arts, Crafts & Food Festival, you’ll find:

  • Handmade arts and crafts from Hawai‘i’s finest artisans, including jewelry, clothing, woven goods, woodwork, and more.

  • Local food specialties, from traditional island favorites and savory plate lunches to sweet treats and tropical beverages.

  • Live entertainment and music, adding to the festive atmosphere as you wander the gardens and explore each booth.

  • Free admission, making it an easy and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, sampling regional delicacies, or simply soaking up the aloha spirit, the festival is a wonderful way to connect with the heart of Hawai‘i’s creative communities.

When and Where the Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival Takes Place

Nani Mau Gardens where the Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival is held

The festival typically takes place over a long weekend in April, coinciding with other island celebrations like the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo. While specific dates can vary year to year, past festivals have run from Thursday through Saturday, with hours from morning to late afternoon each day. 

Nani Mau Gardens — the festival’s setting — offers lush tropical scenery that makes the entire experience feel like a stroll through paradise, complete with artisan booths nestled among exotic flora. 

A Great Day Trip From the Kohala Coast

For visitors staying in our vacation rentals the Kohala Coast, attending the Hawai‘i Arts, Crafts & Food Festival makes a fantastic day trip. Hilo is approximately a 90 minute drive from Waikoloa Resort on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island.

After a scenic drive across the island, you can enjoy local culture, food, and art before returning to your vacation rental. Pair your festival visit with stops at waterfalls, beaches, or other attractions along the way for a truly memorable Big Island adventure.