Celebrating the Season in Kailua-Kona -7 Tips For Holiday Happenings

The mist was floating across Alii Drive today as a byproduct of the incoming high surf. The warm tropical breeze, with a salty taste and smell in the air combined with the sound of waves crashing against the walls. Driving around today I noticed all the Black Friday shoppers who were out showing some holiday cheer and island vibes. It’s the kind of “I love Hawaii” day that makes me want to write about it and share it with you.

Christmas Kick Off in Kona

Christmas Tree at Kona Shopping Center

I always go up to Home Depot on Black Friday to purchase a dozen or so Pointsettias to decorate my house and give to my neighbors. TIP ONE: They are only $2 today. (Black Friday) 

I see people buying their trees from Lowe’s and Home Depot, because we don’t have much in the way of going up and cutting down a tree from a farm in West Hawaii, but TIP TWO: You CAN cut your own tree down on the Hamakua Coast at the Hamakua Christmas Tree Farm. Residents of Kailua-Kona kick off the holidays in their own unique way either by decorating their homes, attending events,  or just planning on spending more time on the beach as it finally is starting to get cooler with less humidity.  When you wander around town, the shopping centers are starting to promote their holiday events, and trees and decorations are up that annually transform West Hawaii into a holiday haven.

 Festive Flavors of Aloha

Moana Restaurant at Kona Village (PC Kona Village)

During the run up to Thanksgiving, folks were talking about a variety of special holiday menus and culinary delights offered by Kailua-Kona’s restaurants and eateries. TIP THREE: The new restaurants at the Kona Village, (Moana, in particular) was THE place everyone was talking about for their holiday buffet. (Take a look at the photo of the interior of the new Moana restaurant with the views) We are going to go next week and report back!  TIP FOUR: If you love shopping for interesting local foods and gifts, Tasty Kona has just opened their second location. Look for them below Fosters Kitchen in the Coconut Grove or their original site across from the Kona Inn Shopping Center. They carry local food and craft gifts and with their expansion, more local makers and farmers will be filling their stockings this year.

 Beachy Baubles and Surfin’ Santas

For those coming to visit for the holidays, what is more fun than to check out some of the local shopping centers and art experiences. TIP FIVE: Donkey Mill Studio Art Sale is December 9th from 10-2 pm 

Explore the local holiday markets and craft fairs where visitors can find one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade ornaments, and unique souvenirs. Looking for a tree lighting and a special event featuring Santa Claus in beach attire? TIP SIX: Go to the Holualoa Music and Light Festival on Dec 2nd from 5:30-8:30 pm. Parking at the elementary school is your best bet.

If you are staying up in the Waikoloa Resort area, check out the King’s Shops with their free entertainment schedule and artisans booths in the center courtyard. Also, on Friday December 1, they are holding a “Fashion For A Cause” fashion show to benefit the American Cancer Society by providing a place to stay for families in Oahu who have family members in the hospital. Buy Tickets Here. 

Keeping the Beauty of Hawaii Island With You in 2024

If you have been following me on this blog over the years, you know that I create an annual calendar with photos I have taken throughout the year. TIP SEVEN: FOR TODAY, Black Friday, buy one of my calendars now for only $15, which includes shipping in the US. Go to this link to get it. If you are local, I can get it to you, too! We only have 30 to sell at this price, so get em now! And if you enjoy the info I include here, on my blogs and in our 365Hawaii videos, get a calendar for a friend and support a blogger. Lol.

Get the Scoop on Kailua Kona

We are creating some great video content on our 365Hawaii YouTube channel, I post monthly events calendars on our 365Hawaii Living website blog and if you are looking to buy a a home, we offer the best local real estate info at our “365Hawaii Real Estate Minute” YouTube channel.

Happy holidays to you all if you live here or if you are spending the holiday season in Kailua-Kona. I love Kona at this time of year!  If you are visiting, please have an unforgettable holiday experience, while showing your Aloha and if you are local, don’t forget to shop local and support our wonderful businesses!

Julie Ziemelis, is a Kailua Kona blogger, vlogger, author, event planner and Realtor.

Thinking of buying real estate or just learning more about purchasing a home? Join our 365Ohana! or email Julie at [email protected]

Julie Ziemelis, RS 85062

Real Broker, LLC