By now you have probably heard that the Kīlauea Volcano is not currently erupting. While Madame Pele may have pressed pause on the summit eruption of Kīlauea within Halemaʻumaʻu crater on June 19th, 2023, things are still heating up in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Volcano Villages. And anyone who’s been to Volcano, Hawai’i in the summer knows the reason… Experience Volcano, that’s why! 

Now in its fourth year, the Experience Volcano Festival is an annual celebration of the culture, people, and traditions that make Volcano, HI so diverse and unique. If you think of the village of Volcano as simply a gateway to the park, we encourage you to join us for the festival on July 29th and 30th, from 10am to 4pm on both days. From mesmerizing hula and inspired art to delicious food and wine tasting, this is your chance to experience the real Volcano, HI.

1. A Run Through an Ohi’a Forest

On Saturday, July 29th, join walkers and runners from Hawai’i and beyond at 7am for the O’hia Lehua Half Marathon and 5k. The fun run begins and ends at the Cooper Center in Volcano Village, taking runners up Wright Road where you’ll be greeted with scenic views of majestic Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. Created to be a platform for spreading awareness about Rapid Ohi’a Death (ROD) and educating the community on how to preserve our precious ohi’a trees, the course also winds through a breathtaking ohi’a forest, reminding us of why ROD prevention is so critical! 

Tutu’s Tip: Partial road closures will be in effect in Volcano Village area prior to the festival hours for the safety of the runners, so plan accordingly! 

2) Immersion into Hawaiian Culture

Following the race, head to the Volcano Winery for the Opening Oli Hawaiian Chant at 10am. It will certainly inspire a weekend of immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture. Fortunately, the festival provides ample opportunity to do just that! Learn the traditional practice of pounding kalo into poi at Lava Rock Cafe or lei making at  Volcano Garden Arts. You’ll also have plenty of chances to catch the festival’s featured hula halau, Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa, on both Saturday and Sunday.

3) Live Music & Art in Action

Live and local music will be your soundtrack for the weekend’s festivities. Stop by Kilauea Lodge and you’ll be treated to a variety of performances, from Hawaiian music to eclectic music and classic rock. The sound of contemporary favorites awaits you at Volcano Garden Arts. And if you visit the Garden on Saturday, you can join owner and artist Ira Ono in ceramic mask making. Hawaiian contemporary is on tap at the Lava Rock Cafe, followed by local favorites. Or head over to Volcano Art Center for flameworking with Nash Pruitt before making your way to Volcano Winery to sample wine from the southernmost winery in the United States while listening to local contemporary favorites and award-winning Hawaiian music.

4) Events for Everyone to Enjoy

Both days of the Experience Volcano Festival are jam-packed with activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. Attend the Hawaiian quilting demo at Lava Rock Cafe on either day (and stay for an ono lunch). Or support the local rotary by purchasing a savory pulled pork lunch at Volcano Art Center on Saturday. On Sunday, the art center is proud to feature “Conversations: Spirit & Nature” an exhibit showcasing art inspired by Hawaii’s multi-faceted cultures and five local artists’ love of the ‘aina. 

5) The Secret Garden Tour & More 

The Volcano Art Center has two cultural tours through the lush rainforest on the festival schedule. Or take a self-guided walk through the enchanted Secret Garden at Volcano Garden Arts. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss the walking tour of historic Volcano homes that Kilauea Lodge has planned. And wine aficionados can enjoy wine tasting in Paradise while on a tour of the Volcano Winery.

The Experience Volcano Festival presents a fantastic chance to share the food, music, art, activities, culture, and nature that make our area so treasured. We look forward to celebrating the unique experiences of Volcano, Hawai’i with you! 

Mark your calendars now for this family-friendly event that offers locals and visitors the opportunity to Experience Volcano. Hawaii! Almost all of the festival’s events will be free to the public, so save the date and join us in Volcano, July 29th and 30th. To find out more and to get information please visit www.ExperienceVolcano.com/Festival.

Our charming cottages, Tutu’s Place and the Ola’a House, are conveniently located within minutes of all the festival fun. Book your stay today and get ready to experience the enchanted village of Volcano!