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Tanabata Festival

Regency Hualalai Senior Living in Kailua-Kona will host a free Tanabata Festival, also known as the "Star Festival," on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This Japanese cultural celebration features a Kagami Biraki sake ceremony, Taiko drumming, bon dancing, and the tradition of writing wishes on colorful tanzaku strips.

Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Kailua-Kona
Lunar date
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US
Tanabata Festival
Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Kailua-Kona
Japanese Culture Star Festival Traditional Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Kagami Biraki (sake) ceremony with Islander Sake Brewery
  • Taiko drumming by Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission
  • Bon dancing with Randal Smith
  • Theatrical play of the Tanabata Story
The Tanabata Festival, often called the "Star Festival," is a free community event hosted by Hualalai Senior Living in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Scheduled for Saturday, July 18, 2026, the festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Regency Hualalai Senior Living facility, located at 75-181 Hualalai Road.

This celebration of Japanese tradition commemorates the annual meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi, who are said to be separated by the Milky Way and permitted to meet once a year. Attendees are invited to experience a rich array of cultural activities and entertainment.

Highlights of the festival include a Kagami Biraki (sake) ceremony presented with Islander Sake Brewery, Taiko drumming performances by Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission, and bon dancing led by Randal Smith. The event also features a theatrical play recounting the Tanabata story and opportunities for guests to write personal wishes on tanzaku (colorful paper strips) to hang on tree branches, hoping for their wishes to be granted. Food and additional entertainment will also be available.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

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Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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