Christine Hitt
My favorite time of year is approaching: fall. And the season is even better in Hawaii, where there are fun and festive events, like these, that are unique to the Islands.
Paniolo Parade and Rodeo
Sept. 21-22
Hawaii Island will honor past paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) at this year's annual Paniolo Parade, themed Na Paniolo Hoohanohano, which means Grand are the Cowboys. The parade starts at 10 a.m. at the Waimea Community Center and ends at the Kalani Schutte Waimea District Park. It's followed by a festival from 12-4 p.m. The next day is the Aloha Festivals Rodeo and events.
Waikiki Hoolaulea
Sept. 21
The largest block party in Hawaii takes place beachfront in Waikiki on the island of Oahu from 6-9:30 p.m. Walk Kalakaua Avenue, visit craft and food booths and dance to live music performed on multiple stages.
Kauai Mokihana Festival
Sept. 22-28
The annual festival on the island of Kauai is a weeklong celebration of Hawaiian culture. There will be music, hula competitions, educational lectures and workshops. Shoppers will love the craft fair. Ticket prices start at $20.
Hawaii International Film Festival
Oct. 2-Nov. 10
Film enthusiasts will want to get their tickets for this festival showcasing feature-length and short films from around the world, with a focus on Asia, the Pacific and made-in-Hawaii productions. The screenings start on Oahu then travel to all of the Hawaiian Islands, including Lanai and Molokai.
Hawaii Food and Wine Festival
Oct. 18-Nov. 10
The largest food and wine festival in Hawaii returns this fall to the Big Island of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu, as chefs, winemakers and mixologists from the Islands and around the world participate in various ticketed dinners and grand tastings.
Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival
Oct. 20
It's a celebration of two addicting treats: chocolate and coffee. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the public is invited to this street festival at Kilohana Plantation, where they can sample products from different vendors. There will also be demonstrations, live entertainment and a silent auction. Admission to the festival is free. Tickets are $40 for a chocolate and coffee sampling passport.