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The Big Island has cowboys ... and rodeos; foodies ... and food festivals; preservation ... and turtle releases; cultural awareness ... twilight at Kalahuipua'a, the Merry Monarch Festival, and the Lei Day Festival; athletic competitions ... Ironman Triathlons and golf tournaments.
Ironman Triathlon
June 4, 2011
Each year 1,800 triathletes from around the world gather in Kona to compete against the very best. Whether you are participating (and would like luxurious accommodations for you and your family) or a spectator, the Kohala Coast is a perfect central point.
World Championship Schedule
Annual Parker Ranch Rodeo
Held each Independence Day weekend, the Parker Ranch Rodeo includes rodeo events, keiki (children's) events, food, and more. (808-885-5669)
www.parkerranch.com
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival
September (look for updates on their website): This festival celebrates Hawaii's unique slack key guitar playing style. Held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona - admission is free (Noon to 6:00 p.m.) - 808-930-4900.
http://www.hawaiianslackkeyguitarfestivals.com/
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
November: The only coffee festival in the United States, it is Hawaii's oldest food festival. Featuring more than 50 events it includes cultural and culinary highlights. 808-236-7820
www.KonaCoffeeFest.com
Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai
January: Join golf's greats at the Four Seasons Hualalai.
http://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/s524/
Kona Brewers Festival
March: The 14th Annual Kona Brewers Festival will take place in Kailua-Kona. Not only does Hawaii offer world famous coffee, but you can savor local brews of beer as well.
http://www.konabrewersfestival.com/
Merrie Monarch Festival
April: The Merry Monarch Festival is held each spring in Hilo. It celebrates the tradition of hula, both ancient and modern, and pays tribute to Hawaii's beloved King Kalakaua and his devotion to the perpetuation of Hawaiian culture. Tickets must be purchased in advance and go on first sale in December. Visit the official website for additional information.
http://www.merriemonarchfestival.org/
Big Island Film Festival
May: The fourth Big Island Film Festival is scheduled for May 11 - 15, 2011 at the Mauna Lani Resort. Make reservations online at http://www.BigIslandFilmFestival.com or by calling 808-883-0394.
Turtle Independence Day
July 4th - Each year three- and four-year old turtles raised in the ancient fish ponds of the Mauna Lani are released into the Pacific Ocean. Call 808-885-6622 for additional information.
Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament
The annual international billfish tournament, held in Kailua-Kona, will attract sportsmen from all over the world compete to tag the largest Pacific marlin. Additional information is available on their website http://www.hibtfishing.com/
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