Looking for an excuse to visit Hawai‘i Island? From April 28–29 the Big Island Chocolate Festival will take place at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. This year’s theme, “Worth Its Weight in Gold: The History of Chocolate,” offers a range of chocolate-focused events: a guided tour of a cacao plantation at the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory, a college culinary competition, live entertainment and dance performances. The festival gala ticket also includes unlimited beer and wine pours for guests to enjoy with specialty chocolate pairings.
Shortly after, the Kau Coffee Festival returns for its ninth year in Pāhala, running May 19–28. The festival’s highlight is the all-day hoolaulea celebration on May 27 at the Pāhala Community Center, featuring fresh-roasted coffee, local food vendors and handmade crafts. The festival schedule includes farm and mill tours, guided coffee tastings, group stargazing, a scenic hike and the Kau Coffee Recipe Contest, giving visitors a chance to learn about the full journey from bean to cup.
Coffee lovers should also mark their calendars for the 47th annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, held Nov. 3–12. This long-running celebration honors two centuries of coffee culture on the Kona coast and showcases the people, traditions and craftsmanship behind Kona coffee. Attendees can expect musical performances, hands-on cultural demonstrations and numerous opportunities to sample brews made with the world-renowned Kona coffee bean.
Both chocolate and coffee festivals highlight Hawai‘i Island’s agricultural heritage and offer immersive ways to experience local flavors and culture. Whether you’re touring a cacao plantation, tasting single-origin coffees, or taking part in community-centered events, these festivals provide opportunities to connect with producers, learn about traditional methods and enjoy island hospitality.