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Destination: Hawaii (Big) Island Article Source: Copyright © 2012 by Fodor’s Travel, a division of Random House Inc. All rights reserved.
Since 1995, this culinary event has given locals and visitors a taste of what the region's best chefs and ranches have to offer, from grass-fed beef, lamb, and mutton to succulent veal. www.tasteofthehawaiianrange.com.
First-run films are shown on the nine screens of the Prince Kuhio Stadium Cinemas.
An annual event held on the big stage at Waikoloa Bowl, this hula extravaganza features halau (groups) from Hawaii and Japan competing under the stars. During the day, workshops and cultural fairs take place at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. www.mokuokeawe.org.
After decades of neglect, this theater dating from 1925 has been beautifully restored and showcases everything from old movies to musical productions to holiday concerts. www.hilopalace.com.
The 10-screen theater in Kailua-Kona has stadium seating and digital surround sound.
On weekends, a young crowd gyrates to hot dance music—hip-hop, R&B, and rock—spun by a professional DJ. The party lasts well into the evening.
Held over 10 days, the oldest food festival in Hawaii includes a coffee recipe contest, coffee picking competition, and a colorful parade. A highlight is the Holualoa Village Coffee and Art Stroll, during which you can enjoy original art and sample different cups of java. www.konacoffeefest.com.
Critically acclaimed films and the occasional art-house flick are shown on four screens in this pretty art-deco building. Since the movies are not-so-recently released, the price is right at $1 to $1.75 per person. You can even get a hot dog for $1.75 and free refills on large popcorns and sodas.
Every June, Kailua-Kona rolls out its annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade, featuring the beautiful pa'u riders on horseback representing the colorful flora of the Hawaiian Islands. A party usually follows.
At this great annual celebration, roughly 30 breweries and 25 restaurants offer samples of their craft beer and ale. There's also live music, fashion shows, and home-brewer contest. The event is usually held on the grounds of Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. www.konabrewersfestival.com.