WAIKOLOA LEI DAY FESTIVAL
Join us for the Waikoloa Lei Day Festival, a free, family-friendly celebration honoring Hawai‘i’s rich lei-making traditions. Taking place at Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace, this special event brings together the community and visitors for a day of cultural performances, interactive experiences, and a vibrant marketplace featuring local artisans, food vendors, and island-made goods.
Celebrate the beauty and meaning of Lei Day through the artistry of hula, browse handcrafted treasures, and enjoy hands-on cultural activities, all shared in the true spirit of aloha.
Please note: Festivities and event schedules are subject to change with little to no notice.
Festivities at Kings’ Shops
Cultural Activities & Experiences
- Lei-making classes
- ʻOhe Kapala (bamboo stamping)
- Artisan vendors featuring locally made goods
- Live radio broadcasting with KWXX
Live Entertainment at Kings’ Shops
1:45 PM – Aloha ‘Oli with Hālau Kawehileimamoikawēkiu’okōhala
2:00 PM – Ka Hui Hoa
3:00 PM – Hālau E Hulali Mai I Ka Lā
4:00 PM – Kāmau
5:00 PM – Hālau Kawehileimamoikawēkiu’okōhala
Festivities at Queens’ Marketplace
Lei Contest
The Lei Contest is proudly presented by Waikoloa Beach Resort, with organization by Traditions Hawaii and Hale Kua, celebrating the artistry and cultural significance of lei making.
Queens’ Marketplace will host this year’s Lei Contest, featuring three traditional lei-making categories: Wili, Haku, and Kui.
- Lei Entry & Registration: 1 – 2 PM
- Registration Fee: $5 per entry (no limit on entries)
- Judging: 2:30-3:30 PM
- Public Viewing: 3:30-4:30 PM
- Awards Ceremony: 5 PM
Contestants must be present or have a representative available to accept awards
Lei Contest registration and exhibition will take place at the Kuleana Rum Shack Tasting Room (Unit H7), with the Awards Ceremony held at the Coronation Pavilion Main Stage.
Cultural Activities & Experiences
Guests of all ages are invited to engage in traditional Hawaiian games, an important part of Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage:
- ʻUlu Maika (stone bowling)
- Moa Pahe‘e (dart sliding)
- Kōnane (Hawaiian checkers)
Additional offerings include lei-making classes hosted by Ainahua Florals and a local vendor market.
Live Entertainment at Queens’ Marketplace
2:45 PM – Aloha ‘Oli with Hālau Manaola
3:00 PM – EvaLani Serenaders
4:00 PM – Hālau Manaola
5:00 PM – Lei Contest Award Ceremony
6:00 PM – Kala’e & Kalena