Hawaiʻi County Fair (Hilo)

A beloved island tradition celebrating community, culture, and fun in East Hawaiʻi

Every year, as summer winds down on the Big Island, families, friends, and visitors gather in Hilo for one of the island’s most anticipated community events. The Hawaiʻi County Fair (Hilo) Big Island is a joyful celebration of local culture, agriculture, entertainment, and small town pride. With carnival rides, live performances, local food vendors, craft booths, and family friendly activities, the fair captures the heart of East Hawaiʻi in a way few events can.

Set in the lush, rain kissed town of Hilo, this annual fair offers a welcoming atmosphere where locals reconnect and travelers experience everyday island life beyond resorts and beaches. For many Big Island residents, attending the Hawaiʻi County Fair is a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

The History of the Hawaiʻi County Fair in Hilo

Roots in Community and Agriculture

The Hawaiʻi County Fair began as a way to bring communities together while highlighting agriculture, education, and youth programs across the island. Organized by Hawaiʻi County, the fair has long served as a showcase for local farmers, ranchers, students, and small businesses.

Over time, the event evolved from a modest agricultural exhibition into a full scale county fair that blends modern entertainment with island heritage. Despite the growth, it has remained grounded in community values and local participation.

Why Hilo Remains the Heart of the Fair

Hilo’s role as the cultural and civic center of East Hawaiʻi makes it the natural home of the fair. With its historic downtown, banyan lined streets, and close knit neighborhoods, Hilo provides the perfect setting for an event that emphasizes connection and accessibility.

When the Hawaiʻi County Fair Takes Place

Confirmed Time of Year

The Hawaiʻi County Fair in Hilo is typically held in late August, making it a popular end of summer event for families and students before the school year settles in.

In recent years, the fair has commonly run for:

• Four to five days
• Mid to late August, often Wednesday through Sunday

One confirmed example from recent editions includes dates around August 23 to August 27, depending on the calendar year. While exact dates are finalized annually, late August remains consistent.

Where the Fair Is Held in Hilo

Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium Grounds

The primary and confirmed venue for the Hawaiʻi County Fair is the Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium area in Hilo. This central location provides ample space for rides, stages, food vendors, and exhibition tents.

The venue’s proximity to Downtown Hilo, Banyan Drive, and surrounding neighborhoods makes it easy for both residents and visitors to attend.

What to Expect at the Hawaiʻi County Fair

Carnival Rides and Midway Games

One of the biggest draws of the fair is the classic carnival midway. Bright lights, spinning rides, and game booths create an energetic atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

Expect:

• Family friendly rides for younger children
• Thrill rides for teens and adults
• Traditional fair games with prizes

The midway brings a familiar fair experience with a distinctly island vibe.

Live Entertainment and Performances

Throughout the fair, local entertainers take the stage, showcasing the Big Island’s musical and cultural talent. Performances often include:

• Live Hawaiian music
• Hula hālau performances
• Local bands and school groups

These shows provide a platform for community expression and give visitors insight into everyday island artistry.

Food, Vendors, and Local Flavor

Island Comfort Food and Fair Favorites

Food is a central part of the Hawaiʻi County Fair experience. Visitors can expect a wide selection of local favorites and classic fair treats, including:

• Plate lunches with island flair
• Grilled meats and seafood
• Shave ice and tropical desserts
• Traditional fair snacks like corn dogs and malasadas

Many food vendors are local businesses, making the fair a delicious way to support the community.

Crafts and Local Products

The fair also features vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, local merchandise, and small business products. These booths reflect the creativity and entrepreneurship found throughout Hawaiʻi Island.

Youth Exhibits and Educational Displays

Supporting Local Youth Programs

A key element of the Hawaiʻi County Fair is its focus on education and youth involvement. Students from across the Big Island often participate through:

• School exhibits
• Agricultural showcases
• Youth organization displays

These exhibits highlight learning, responsibility, and the future of the island’s communities.

Agricultural and Cultural Education

Visitors can also explore displays that share information about farming, sustainability, and local history. This educational aspect connects the modern fair to its agricultural roots and reinforces respect for the land.

Cultural Significance on the Big Island

A Gathering Place for All

The Hawaiʻi County Fair is one of the few events that brings together residents from across the island, from Puna and Kaʻū to Hamakua and Kona. It is inclusive, affordable, and welcoming, making it a true countywide celebration.

Reflecting Everyday Island Life

Unlike large festivals created primarily for tourism, the fair reflects real local rhythms. Families run into neighbors, students perform for relatives, and long time vendors reconnect year after year. For visitors, this authenticity is part of the magic.

Admission Prices and Ride Costs

Entry to the Fair

Admission to the Hawaiʻi County Fair has traditionally been free or very low cost, making it accessible to families and individuals of all backgrounds. This community focused pricing is one reason the fair remains so popular.

Ride and Game Tickets

Carnival rides and games usually operate on a ticket system. Typical pricing includes:

• Individual ride tickets sold on site
• Discounted ticket packages for multiple rides

Exact prices vary by year and ride provider, but costs are generally comparable to mainland county fairs.

Travel Tips for Visitors Attending the Fair

Getting There and Parking

The Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium is easily accessible from Downtown Hilo and Banyan Drive. Parking may be limited during peak evening hours, so arriving early or using rideshare services can be helpful.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light rain gear, as Hilo weather can be unpredictable
• Cash or cards for food and ride tickets
• A reusable bag for purchases

Where to Stay

Visitors often choose accommodations in:

• Downtown Hilo
• Banyan Drive
• Nearby residential vacation rentals

Staying close allows easy access to the fair and surrounding attractions.

Exploring Hilo Beyond the Fair

Nearby Attractions

While visiting for the fair, many guests also explore:

• Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe Falls
• Liliʻuokalani Gardens
• Hilo Farmers Market
• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, about a 45 minute drive away

These experiences extend the trip and showcase the natural beauty of East Hawaiʻi.

Why the Hawaiʻi County Fair Is a Big Island Favorite

The Hawaiʻi County Fair (Hilo) Big Island continues to thrive because it reflects the values of community, connection, and celebration. It is a place where laughter fills the air, music echoes across the grounds, and generations come together under the glow of carnival lights.

If your August plans include time on the Big Island, spending an evening at the Hawaiʻi County Fair in Hilo offers a genuine look at island life. Wander the midway, enjoy the music, share a plate lunch, and experience a tradition that continues to bring Hawaiʻi Island together year after year.

Verified Information at a Glance

• Event Name: Hawaiʻi County Fair
• Location: Hilo, Big Island of Hawaiʻi
• Primary Venue: Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium grounds
• Event Category: Community Fair and Cultural Event
• Typically Held: Late August
• Event Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 days
• Admission: Free or low cost entry
• Activities: Carnival rides, live entertainment, food vendors, crafts, youth exhibits
• Audience: Families, local residents, Big Island visitors
• Parking: Limited on site and nearby streets

Exact dates, ride ticket pricing, and entertainment schedules are confirmed annually by Hawaiʻi County. Visitors are encouraged to check current year announcements before attending.