What to do on Hawaiʻi Island for the 4th of July

HAWAII ISLAND, Hawaii (KHON2) — There are lots of events to have fun at this week and weekend as the 4th of July hits the Hawaiʻi from Hilo to Kona.

For the 4th of July 2024, Hawaiʻi Island has a variety of events planned to celebrate Independence Day.

Hilo Bay Blast

The Hilo Bay Blast is a major Independence Day celebration held in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, featuring a full day of activities, entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display over Hilo Bay. Here are the details for the 2024 event.

Fireworks display

• Time : The fireworks show begins at 8 p.m.
• Details : The fireworks are launched from a barge in Hilo Bay and are synchronized to patriotic music aired on KWXX. This makes for a visually stunning and acoustically thrilling experience, as the fireworks light up the sky over the water.

Daytime Activities

• Hilo Bay 5K Run/Walk : Starting at 7a.m. at the beautiful Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the event is hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3830. This activity is a great way to kick off the day’s festivities with a bit of exercise and community spirit.
• Hot Rides Expo : From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Hilo Bayfront Soccer Fields (mauka fields) host a car show featuring vintage, classic, and futuristic vehicles. This event includes live music performances by bands such as Saddle Road Band, After Party, Vizion 20/20, Johnny Ness, and Hot Potaytahs. There are also food trucks and children’s activities, including water slides and bounce houses.

Evening entertainment

• Hawaiʻi County Band : At 7 p.m., the Hawaii County Band performs at Mo’oheau Bandstand. The band’s performance leads up to the fireworks display, offering live music that enhances the festive atmosphere.

• Special Viewing Area :

• Kupuna viewing station : The Hilo Bayfront Soccer Fields have a designated area for senior citizens (kupuna) to view the fireworks. The Department of Parks & Recreation’s Elderly Activities Division provides shuttle service from the Kamanā Senior Center to the viewing station from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with return service from 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.​

Practical information

• Admission : The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible for everyone.
• Parking and transportation :

• Parking : Parking can be challenging due to the large crowds. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
• Road closures : Lihiwai Street, Bayfront Highway, and other nearby roads are usually closed to vehicular traffic during certain times to accommodate the festivities and ensure safety.

Tips for attendees

• Arrive early : To get a good spot for both the daytime activities and the evening fireworks, plan to arrive early.
• Bring essentials : Consider bringing beach chairs, blankets, and sun protection such as hats and sunscreen. Also, bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
• Respect the environment : Help keep Hilo Bay clean by disposing of trash properly and following any guidelines set by event organizers.

Click here for more information.

Kailua-Kona

Parade and Fireworks : The Kailua-Kona Independence Day Parade starts at 6 p.m., featuring vibrant floats and musical acts. This is followed by a fireworks show over Kailua Bay at 8 p.m.​

Independence Day Parade :

• Time : The parade kicks off at 6 p.m.
• Route : The parade typically begins at Kekuaokalani Gym (also known as the Old Kona Airport) and travels along Kuakini Highway, turning down Palani Road, and finishing along Ali’i Drive near Walua Road.
• Participants : The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, local businesses, community organizations, and cultural groups. Participants often decorate their floats and outfits in red, white, and blue to celebrate American independence.
• Theme : Each year, the parade has a specific theme celebrating American patriotism and the local culture of Hawaii.

Fireworks display :

• Time : The fireworks show begins at approximately 8 p.m.
• Location : The fireworks are launched from a barge in Kailua Bay, providing a stunning display over the water that can be seen from various vantage points along the coastline.
• Details : The show features a choreographed display of fireworks set to music, creating a mesmerizing visual and auditory experience for spectators.

Daytime and evening activities :

• Family-friendly events : Throughout the day and leading up to the parade, there are various family-friendly activities, including live music, food vendors, and games.
• Beach and water activities : Given the location near the coast, many attendees spend the day enjoying beach and water activities before the evening festivities begin.

Practical information

• Admission :

• The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible to everyone.

• Parking and transportation :

• Parking : Parking can be challenging due to the large crowds. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Parking is available at various public lots and street parking in Kailua-Kona.
• Shuttle services : In some years, shuttle services have been provided from outlying areas to the parade route to help alleviate parking congestion.

Tips for attendees

• Arrive early : To get a good spot for both the parade and fireworks, it’s advisable to arrive early. Many people set up chairs and blankets along Ali’i Drive.
• Bring essentials : Consider bringing sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks to stay comfortable throughout the day. Beach chairs or blankets are useful for watching the parade and fireworks.
• Respect the environment : Help keep Kailua-Kona clean by picking up after yourself and following any guidelines set by event organizers.

Click here for more information.

Waikoloa Beach Resort

Family Activities : Kings’ Shops will host the annual Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race and other family-friendly activities starting at 11 a.m. Queens’ Marketplace will have its 4th of July Extravaganza from noon to 4 p.m., including live music, carnival games, and a magic show.

Event Details

• Time : The race usually starts around mid-day, typically at 3 p.m.
• Location : The race takes place in the Kings’ Shops’ reflecting pond.
• Participants : Individuals can sponsor rubber duckies, which are then raced across the pond. Each duck is numbered, and the first ducks to cross the finish line win prizes.
• Prizes : There are various prizes for the winners, including gift certificates, resort stays, and other local goods and services.
• Charity : The event benefits the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawaii, making it a fun way to contribute to a good cause.

How to participate :

• Sponsorship : Ducks can be sponsored in advance through Kings’ Shops or on the day of the event, subject to availability.
• Cost : There is usually a small fee to sponsor a duck, which goes towards the charity.

Other family-friendly activities

1. Live entertainment :
2. Music : There are performances by local musicians throughout the day at both Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace. Genres often include Hawaiian music, contemporary hits, and family-friendly tunes.
3. Hula Performances : Traditional hula dancers often perform, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii.
1. Games and activities :
2. Keiki (Children’s) activities : Face painting, balloon twisting, and other fun activities are set up to entertain children.
3. Carnival games : Various games with prizes are available, adding to the festive atmosphere.
1. Food and beverages :
2. Food stalls and trucks : A wide range of food options are available, from local Hawaiian delicacies to traditional American BBQ.
3. Restaurants : The numerous restaurants in Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace offer special menus and deals for the 4th of July celebrations.
1. Shopping and promotions :
2. Retail Discounts : Many stores in Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace offer special promotions and discounts throughout the day.
1. Fireworks display :

• Note : While the Waikoloa Beach Resort traditionally had fireworks, the fireworks display has not been held since 2018. However, the daytime activities continue to attract large crowds and provide plenty of entertainment.

Practical information

• Admission :

• The event is free and open to the public, though some activities and food stalls may charge fees.

• Parking and transportation :

• Parking : Parking is available at the resort, but it can become crowded, so early arrival is recommended.
• Shuttle services : Sometimes shuttle services are provided from nearby areas to alleviate parking issues.

Click here for more information. ​

Parker Ranch Rodeo and Horse Races

Rodeo : The 60th Annual July 4th Rodeo and Horse Races will take place in Waimea. Gates open at 7 a.m., with rodeo events running from 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

Rodeo competitions

• Bull riding : Cowboys attempt to stay mounted on a bucking bull for as long as possible.
• Bronc riding : Participants ride wild horses, showcasing their skills and bravery.
• Barrel racing : Riders navigate their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels, competing for the fastest time.
• Team roping : Two cowboys work together to catch a steer, with one roping the head and the other roping the hind legs.
• Steer wrestling : Also known as bulldogging, where a cowboy jumps off his horse to wrestle a steer to the ground.

Horse races

• Various horse racing events are held, featuring local and regional riders. These races highlight the speed and agility of the horses, as well as the skill of the riders.

Parade and festivities

• Paniolo parade : A parade featuring decorated floats, riders in traditional cowboy attire, and local musicians. It usually takes place in the morning, kicking off the day’s events.
• Live music and entertainment : Throughout the day, there are performances by local bands and musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Food and craft vendors

• Local cuisine : Food vendors offer a variety of local foods, including traditional Hawaiian dishes and American barbecue.
• Craft stalls : Vendors sell handmade crafts, jewelry, and other unique items, providing attendees with the opportunity to purchase souvenirs.

Family-friendly activities

• Keiki (Kids) rodeo : Events specifically designed for children, offering a safe and fun introduction to rodeo activities.
• Petting zoo : A popular attraction for families, featuring various farm animals that children can interact with.

Practical information

• Admission :

• Tickets : Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Prices typically vary, with discounts available for children and seniors. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to secure a spot and avoid long lines.
• Cost : Prices are generally affordable, with early bird discounts available.

• Parking

• Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly. Arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot.

• Tips for attendees :

• Arrive early : To get the best seats and parking, plan to arrive early.
• Comfort : Bring hats, sunscreen, and comfortable seating like folding chairs or blankets.
• Cash : Bring cash for food and craft vendors, as not all may accept credit cards.
• Respect the environment : Help keep the venue clean by disposing of trash properly and following any guidelines set by event organizers.

Click here for more information.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Dinner and Fireworks : The hotel will host a BBQ buffet on the Beachfront Lawn followed by a fireworks show. Reservations are required. ​

BBQ buffet on the beachfront lawn :

• Time : The BBQ buffet typically starts in the late afternoon, around 5 p.m.
• Cuisine : The buffet offers a wide variety of dishes, featuring traditional American BBQ favorites alongside local Hawaiian cuisine. Expect items such as grilled meats, fresh seafood, salads, tropical fruits, and an array of desserts.
• Setting : The event is set on the picturesque beachfront lawn of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, providing stunning ocean views and a relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
• Live Entertainment : Guests can enjoy live music and entertainment during the buffet, adding to the festive ambiance.

Fireworks show

• Time : The fireworks display begins around 8 p.m., following the BBQ buffet.
• Details : The fireworks are launched from a barge offshore, creating a spectacular display over the ocean. The show is synchronized to music, enhancing the visual experience.
• Viewing Areas : Guests can watch the fireworks from the beachfront lawn, providing an unobstructed view of the colorful display against the night sky.

Practical information

• Tickets and Reservations :

• Reservations : Due to the popularity of the event, reservations are highly recommended. Guests can book their spots through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s website or by contacting the hotel directly.
• Cost : The BBQ buffet and fireworks show package typically has a set price, which includes access to both the dinner and the fireworks display. Prices may vary, so it’s best to check with the hotel for the most current rates.

• Parking :

• Parking is available at the hotel, but it can become crowded. Arriving early is advisable to secure a convenient parking spot.

• What to bring :

• Attire : Casual and comfortable attire is recommended, suitable for an outdoor evening event. A light jacket or sweater might be useful as it can get cooler in the evening.
• Essentials : Bring essentials like a camera for capturing the event and be prepared for a leisurely evening under the stars.

These events offer a mix of cultural, family-friendly, and festive activities suitable for all ages to celebrate Independence Day on the Big Island.