July 4th Fun on Hawaii’s Big Island

Big Island visitors and residents alike will celebrate the Fourth of July in both traditional and unique island style. The day’s plans include parades, a variety of family-friendly activities — including a rodeo in paniolo (cowboy) country — and, of course, spectacular fireworks displays.

Here are a few of my top picks for your holiday enjoyment:

July 4th Parade in Kona & Fireworks over Kailua Bay

The 24th annual Kailua-Kona Fourth of July Parade is set to begin at 6pm and will make its way along oceanfront Ali‘i Drive. Arrive early to snag a premium spot along this scenic route. Following the parade at about 8pm, there will be fireworks over Kailua Bay.

Waikoloa Beach Resort July 4th Fireworks & Events

Festivities at the Resort’s Kings’ Shops begin at 10 am and continue throughout the day. Among them, the 28^th Annual Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race, a fundraiser for the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawaii, starts at 3pm on the lagoon. See this link for the full schedule of free events. Meanwhile, at the Resort’s Queens’ MarketPlace live entertainment, face painting, and snacks – all complimentary – will begin at the Coronation Pavilion at 2pm. See this link for more information. The evening fireworks extravaganza starts at 8pm at the Waikoloa Bowl; it’s open to the public and also complimentary.

57th Annual Fourth of July Rodeo and Horse Races at Parker Ranch

The annual rodeo and horse races take place at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in upcountry Waimea Town. It celebrates the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) and their skills. Kid’s activities include a petting zoo and pony rides. Gates open at 7am with rodeo action starting at 9am. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the gate.

Follow this link for more information.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s July 4^th BBQ & Fireworks Display

Reservations are a must for this classic annual event at this legendary oceanfront resort. Set outside on the Beachfront Lawn, this barbecue and buffet extravaganza features island favorites including Ono Ceviche, Poached Shrimp, King Crab Legs, Andouille Smoked Sausage Skewers and, of course, hot dogs and hamburgers at the Beer Mustard Mini Hot Dogs & Beef Slider Bar. A huge assortment of salads, veggie dishes, and desserts will also be on offer starting a 6pm. Fireworks are set to go off at 8 pm. Adults $125 | Children (Ages 5-12) $62. To reserve, please phone (808) 882-5707.

July 4th Fun facts & figures:

• $6.8 million – What Americans plan to spend on food for July 4^th celebrations
• 150 million – The number of hot dogs eaten on the 4^th of July
• $1+ billion – Estimated cost of fireworks nationwide
• $1.6+ billion – Spent on July 4^th wine and beer

Cheers & Happy 4^th!

More Information

For information on Hawaii Island real estate opportunities, please contact Carrie Nicholson, R (B), BIC, director of HL1-Big Island, (808) 896-9749 or carrie@HL1.com.