8 Unmissable Hawaii Events in 2022

There’s no doubt that travelers can easily find fun things to do when visiting any of the Hawaiian Islands. Besides the breathtaking beaches, endless hiking adventures and cultural experiences, the islands host some cool events every year, from 5Ks to surfing competitions to a SPAM party. Add these to your Hawaii itinerary, or even plan it around one.

1. 2022 Waimea Town Celebration, February 19-27, (Kaua‘i) — It’s the 44^th year of Kaua‘i's longest-running festival. Nine days of music concerts, cultural exhibits and vibrant cuisine, all culminate in a two-day ho‘olaule‘a (celebration) where attendees can engage in the rich history of Kaua‘i. Visitors and residents are invited to experience this popular celebration in historic Waimea town.
2. Maui 5K, March 6, 2022 (Maui) — The 11th annual Maui 5K, presented by the Maui Ocean Center, invites runners from all around (that includes tourists) to participate in the event’s timed 5K race, untimed 1-mile run/walk for keiki (children) and adults, stroller 5K run, 1- mile walk, or even a virtual option.
3. Waikiki SPAM JAM^®, April 23, 2022 (O‘ahu) — Benefitting the Hawai‘i Foodbank, the state’s largest nonprofit feeding those in need, the annual Waikiki SPAM JAM® street festival celebrates Hawai‘i’s love for, you guessed it, SPAM®. The family-friendly event takes place in the heart of Waikīkī on Kalākaua Avenue and features local restaurants offering creative SPAM® dishes alongside entertainment stages and products from Hawai‘i crafters.
4. ‘Ahahui Kīwila Hawai’i O Mo’ikeha — Ka Moku O Manikalanipō Pā’ani Makahiki and May Day by the Bay, May 14, 2022 (Kaua’i) — This community event at Wai‘oli Beach Park in Hanalei features mele (music), hula (dance), cultural practitioners, Kauaʽi-made products, a silent auction and ‘ono food with an aim of celebrating Hawaiian culture and creating an authentic experience for visitors.
5. Kapalua Wine and Food Festival, June 5-12, 2022 (Maui) — One of Hawai‘i’s most prestigious culinary festivals, the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival annually celebrates the delicious combination of fine food and wine with a four-day culinary extravaganza. The festival aims to explore some of the most exciting trends in the gastronomic world, bringing together world-renowned winemakers, top master sommeliers, celebrated chefs and industry insiders for themed tastings, seminars and evening gala culinary events.
6. Hawaii Adaptive Surfing Championships, June 6-10, 2022 (O’ahu) — Hosted by AccesSurf Hawaii and Pacific Rim Sports, this event brings together elite adaptive surfers from Hawai‘i and around the world for competition at iconic Waikīkī surf break Queens. It also spotlights 90 surfers with disabilities from 16 nations competing in seven divisions with a mission of paving the path for the inclusion of surfing in the Paralympic Games. Competing surfers represent a high level of athleticism and dedication from around the world, joining to share their love of surfing with aloha. The competition includes a traditional Hawaiian blessing, a lei draping of Waikīkī’s Duke Kahanamoku statue, hula performances and more. It’s excitement for the whole family.
7. Hawai‘i Kuauli Pacific and Asia Cultural Festival, June 10-12, 2022 (island of Hawai‘i) — This three-day celebration is dedicated to the island of Hawai'i and its significance as a cultural melting pot. Enjoy food, fashion, cultural expressions, a keiki hula (children’s hula) competition and cultural workshops.
8. Pan-Pacific Festival, June 10-12, 2022 (O‘ahu) — The Pan-Pacific Festival began in Hawai‘i in 1980 as a cultural exchange between the state and Japan. Visiting participants from Japan were invited to enjoy the familiarity of Japanese music, crafts, traditions and foods, while Hawai‘i residents and other visitors were offered opportunities to gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese sensibilities and cultural heritage. Today, the festival features events held throughout Waikīkī showcasing Japan’s pageantry and includes a ho‘olaule‘a (celebration) block party, art fair and hula performances, culminating with a grand parade on Waikīkī main street Kalākaua Avenue.

Find even more events from the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau.