I love exploring local events, and the Hawai‘i Book and Music Festival is one of my favorites. To attend the Hawai‘i Book and Music Festival, you just need to show up on the dates and at the location listed on the official website. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.
The festival takes place at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and welcomes anyone interested in books, music, and Hawaiian culture.
The HBMF offers more than 150 events and hundreds of guests. You can enjoy live performances, author readings, panel discussions, and activities for families.
The festival is a great weekend outing if you want to learn, relax, or have fun with friends. It’s a chance to enjoy stories, music, and connect with the community.
If you’re curious about what to see or how to make the most of the day, I’ve gathered everything you need to know to get started. I based this guide on details from the Hawai‘i Book & Music Festival and latest event info.
Overview of the Hawaii Book and Music Festival
The Hawai‘i Book and Music Festival happens every year to celebrate local stories, Hawaiian culture, literature, and music. The festival features lively activities, interactive events, and appearances by notable authors, musicians, and culture bearers.
History and Mission
Organizers started the Hawai‘i Book and Music Festival in 2006 to highlight the traditions, arts, and stories of Hawai‘i. They wanted to create a free and welcoming space for families, students, and visitors to learn more about books and music important to Hawai‘i.
The festival aims to inspire reading, support Hawaii literacy, and showcase the diverse cultures living on the islands.
Each year, the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa partners with the festival. The event remains free to the public, making it easy for everyone to join.
Over time, the festival has grown to include hundreds of programs and many community partners.
Types of Events and Activities
The festival offers something for everyone. Kids can join book swaps, bounce houses, and storytelling sessions.
Adults can attend panel discussions, author readings, and music performances.
A typical festival weekend includes:
- Author talks
- Panel discussions on social and cultural topics
- Live music from local artists
- Food vendors
- Book sales and giveaways
- Family-friendly activities like crafts and games
You can join events in person or online. The 2023 event used both Zoom and live sessions at the University of Hawai‘i William S. Richardson School of Law.
This hybrid format makes it easier for more people to join, whether on campus or from home.
Notable Past Guests
Each year, writers, poets, musicians, and community leaders join the festival. Well-known local and national authors share their books and lead discussions.
Native Hawaiian authors and musicians highlight Hawaiian culture through readings and music.
Musical acts include hula performances and a variety of Hawaiian music. Local publishers and civic leaders also join to share insights into Hawaii’s history and modern issues.
With more than 300 participants and over 150 events each year, the festival brings together creative and thoughtful voices from the region.
Festival Dates and Schedule
Planning ahead helps you catch your favorite readings, panels, and events without stress. Here’s what I learned about the festival timing and staying organized.
Key Dates and Times
The Hawaiʻi Book & Music Festival usually happens in the fall. The most recent event took place from October 20th to October 22nd.
Events spread over a weekend, so check the exact dates each year as they may change. Activities are held both in person and online, so you can join from home or visit the University of Hawaiʻi for a live experience.
In-person events often use buildings like the William S. Richardson School of Law.
Each day, sessions run from morning to evening with special time slots for readings, music, and author panels. Arriving early helps you not miss anything.
A typical day can include:
- Morning workshops
- Noon panel discussions
- Afternoon readings
- Evening live music or talks
You can attend one event or stay the whole day, depending on your interest.
How to Find the Program
I always check the official festival website to stay updated. The full schedule comes out ahead of time with a list of all events, panel discussions, and readings.
The website offers an easy menu to look up speakers, event topics, and times.
Some events happen at the same time, so use the schedule to pick your favorites.
The site also provides downloadable schedules, video links for virtual events, and speaker bios. If you are planning for kids, look for special performances like story readings or music shows.
If you arrive on site, you can find paper programs and signs to guide you. Volunteers are ready to help if you have questions.
Tips for Planning Your Visits
Before going, I highlight my top must-see events. Using a printed schedule or phone calendar keeps me on track, especially with overlapping panels.
I pack a notebook and pen for author readings and discussions. Comfortable shoes help since I might walk between buildings or event areas.
I check if some sessions need registration, especially for popular panels or workshops, to make sure I get a seat.
If I’m visiting with family, the children’s area is great for younger readers, with activities just for them.
For online events, I save links in advance and test my internet connection. I prepare questions for Q&A sessions since interaction is encouraged.
Snacks, water, and breaks make a long festival day more enjoyable. Checking updates the day before helps me watch for any schedule or location changes.
Festival Location and Venue Details
The Hawaii Book and Music Festival happens in a central area of Honolulu. Special event spaces make it easy to enjoy everything from author panels to live performances.
Directions to Honolulu Hale and Civic Grounds
The festival takes place at Honolulu Hale, the city hall at 530 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813. I use a GPS or map app to guide me to the civic grounds area.
If you come from Waikiki, drive along Ala Moana Boulevard, turn up Richards Street, and you’ll be just a few blocks from the entrance. City buses have frequent stops near Honolulu Hale, so public transportation is a good option if you want to avoid driving.
Cyclists can use bike lanes and park at nearby racks.
Honolulu Hale is near other civic buildings, so landmarks like Iolani Palace and the Mission Memorial Auditorium are close by. This part of downtown makes it easy to walk between pavilions and food booths during the festival.
Parking and Accessibility
Festival organizers arrange for free parking in several nearby lots and garages. The largest and most convenient is beneath Honolulu Hale, which keeps your car safe from the sun and rain.
Accessible parking is available close to the entrances. Elevators and ramps lead up to the festival grounds, so wheelchair users and strollers can move around easily.
Clear signage around civic grounds points to parking areas and venue entrances. Volunteers are ready to help if you need directions or assistance.
Venues: Mission Memorial Auditorium & Stages
Key events and panels happen in the Mission Memorial Auditorium, a historic building next to Honolulu Hale. This venue features theater seating and air conditioning, which helps you stay comfortable during author readings or music sets.
Other performances and workshops take place on various stages across the civic grounds. Outdoor stages let you relax on the lawn, shaded by large trees.
Each stage hosts different events, from children’s story hours to live local bands.
A festival map guides you to each venue, so you never miss a favorite speaker or activity. The setup encourages exploration, and you can pop in and out of sessions all day.
For programming details and schedules, check the Hawaii Book & Music Festival website ahead of time.
How to Register and Attend
Getting into the Hawaii Book and Music Festival is easy and open to everyone. You can join both online and in person, and health policies may change based on current guidelines.
Ticketing and Entry
Admission is free for all attendees. You don’t need to pay to join the festival.
Most events don’t require tickets or advance registration. You simply show up on event days to take part.
Some special workshops or limited-seating panels may ask for separate sign-ups, so check the festival program ahead of time.
For directions, event maps, and full schedules, visit the official Hawaiʻi Book & Music Festival website.
Volunteers help with organizing, greeting, and keeping things running smoothly. Walk-ins are always welcome, but you need to pre-register if you want to volunteer.
Online and In-Person Options
You can choose to join online or attend in person at the UH Mānoa campus. The in-person schedule includes over 150 events and more than 300 speakers, authors, and performers across different stages and classrooms.
If you prefer remote access, you can join live streaming sessions and watch some programs by Zoom or on video after the event. To join online, register through the official event site and follow the provided links.
Registration usually just means providing your email to get Zoom invitations and event updates.
Attending on-site lets you enjoy book signings, panel discussions, and live music. You can visit vendor booths, join Q&As, or listen to readings.
Both formats let you interact with presenters and take part in Q&A sessions from wherever you feel most comfortable.
COVID-19 Policies
Festival organizers prioritize safety. If I plan to attend in person, I check for updated COVID-19 guidelines.
Currently, mask recommendations or health checks may apply, especially indoors. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa follows state health rules, so requirements can change with public health alerts.
I might need to bring a mask or practice social distancing during case spikes. If I feel sick or have been exposed to COVID-19, I stay home and use the online event features.
The festival’s flexible format lets everyone stay safe and still participate. Switching to virtual sessions is easy if needed.
Featured Events and Experiences
I can join many unique activities, from author talks and live music to wellness classes and fun for kids. The festival blends Hawaii’s traditions and new ideas with interactive sessions for everyone.
Literature Panels and Author Readings
The festival gathers a diverse lineup of writers, poets, and storytellers. Panels feature both local and national authors and give me a chance to hear about their writing process, inspirations, and new releases.
I can listen to live readings and join Q&A sessions to ask questions about books I enjoy. Some panels focus on Hawaiian culture, history, and community stories.
Talks sometimes include publishing tips for aspiring writers. I find it easy to discover new genres and connect with my favorite authors.
Many sessions include book signings or photo opportunities. A schedule helps me plan which events to attend.
For more info, the event hosts post a detailed lineup of panels and readings on the official festival site.
Music Performances and Hula
Live music is a big highlight at the festival. Hawaiian musicians and artists from other genres perform throughout the event.
Ukulele and slack-key guitar set a relaxed atmosphere. I can enjoy hula performances that showcase the beauty and meaning of this traditional dance.
Groups often explain the stories behind the dances, helping me understand the culture better. Some musicians play outdoors on the main stage, while others hold smaller, intimate sets.
The music and hula program changes every year. Performers include well-known local artists and youth groups.
Wellness and Innovation Sessions
The festival offers wellness and innovation workshops, letting me try new experiences in one place. Wellness sessions include yoga, mindfulness, and healthy living presentations.
These activities help me relax and recharge during a busy day. Innovation panels introduce new ideas shaping Hawaii’s future.
Topics might include green technology, sustainability, or creative arts. I enjoy hearing from community leaders and experts.
I can take part in hands-on demonstrations and interactive talks. This makes it easy to learn something new or pick up practical wellness tips.
Keiki Stage and Family Activities
When I bring my family, we always visit the Keiki Stage. There are storytelling sessions, puppet shows, and music for kids.
Authors and educators read children’s books out loud with lively illustrations and interaction. The festival also has arts and crafts stations, games, and cultural workshops for young visitors.
My children enjoy hula lessons or creative activities that teach them about Hawaiian culture. The Keiki Stage keeps kids engaged and happy while parents enjoy other events.
Information about family-friendly schedules and special kids’ programming is on the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa festival page.
Meet the Authors and Speakers
I look forward to meeting writers, musicians, and poets at the Hawaii Book and Music Festival each year. This is my chance to chat in person, ask questions, and get books signed by the authors.
Book Signings and Meet-and-Greets
The festival sets up special times for book signings. Authors sit at tables, and I can line up to talk with them, introduce myself, and have my book signed.
Some authors chat for a minute or take photos if I ask politely. Here’s how I usually plan for signings:
- I check the schedule for signing times.
- I bring my own copies of books or buy them at the festival booths.
- I write down questions for the author so I don’t forget.
Events include both new and well-known writers from Hawaii and beyond. With over 300 participants, there is always someone new to discover or an old favorite to meet, as shown by the festival’s many events.
Storytellers, Poets, and Musicians
Live readings and performances are a special part of the festival. I enjoy listening to authors read their work and hearing musicians play local songs.
There are poetry slams, open mics, and storytelling sessions that make the event lively. As I walk around, I stop to hear storytellers share legends and personal tales.
Poets read their latest poems, sometimes inviting the audience to join in. Musicians take the stage between book events, so I get to enjoy Hawaiian music and dance throughout the day.
For a list of who is performing or reading, I use the festival program. Events for poets, musicians, and storytellers are scheduled all weekend, and most are free (see more at Hawaii Book & Music Festival).
Literature Highlights and Awards
The Hawaii Book and Music Festival celebrates both new and established voices in literature. Attendees can experience book signings, meet authors, and learn about local publishing.
Elliot Cades Awards for Literature
I always look forward to the Elliot Cades Awards for Literature. This award is one of the most respected literary honors in Hawaii.
Each year, the festival recognizes local writers who have made significant contributions to literature. The awards honor established and emerging authors, shining a spotlight on talent from Hawaii.
Past winners include poets, novelists, and essayists who showcase the unique voices of the islands. The winners are announced during the festival’s main stage events.
You can find more details about the festival’s literary highlights through the official festival site.
Loretta D. Petrie Awards
The Loretta D. Petrie Awards recognize outstanding service to the literary community. This part of the festival celebrates not just writers, but also people who support writers and readers in Hawaii.
These awards honor librarians, educators, and supporters who keep books and stories alive. The ceremony is personal, with heartfelt speeches and stories about the impact of books.
Past recipients have included those who run reading programs, manage bookstores, and advocate for literacy in Hawaii. Information about this award is on the University of Hawaii news site.
Spotlight on Fiction and Local Publishers
Fiction takes center stage at the festival, with readings and book signings by local authors. I enjoy visiting booths from local publishers and independent booksellers, where I can buy new releases and discover hidden gems.
These publishers highlight books about Hawaiian culture, history, and legends. Lists of upcoming fiction titles and author appearances are posted at the festival entry points.
Meeting local publishers lets me hear how stories are created and how writers publish books in Hawaii. The variety of books, from poetry to novels, shows how much the islands value storytelling and creative expression.
You can view a sample schedule and details about local literature events from festival program guides.
Community Partners and Sponsors
Each year, the festival brings together passionate organizations. Their support keeps the event free, welcoming, and focused on sharing knowledge.
University Collaborations
The University of Hawai‘i is a central player in making the festival happen. Events and panels take place on the UH Mānoa campus, making it easy for students, families, and visitors to join in.
University of Hawai‘i Press often spotlights local authors and academic voices. I sometimes attend workshops or readings led by faculty or visiting scholars.
Their support ensures a range of topics — from history and language to science and culture. Having the festival at UH Mānoa creates a relaxed learning environment.
Many festival activities are in university halls or on green spaces. Students often help run events or present their own creative work.
Non-Profit Involvement
Non-profit groups like Read to Me International and Hawaii Literacy are important partners. Their booths offer reading materials for kids, sign-ups for literacy programs, and fun family activities.
These groups reach out to children and parents, reminding everyone why reading matters. Organizations such as the Bank of Hawaii also sponsor key parts of the festival.
Their support keeps programs free and open to all. I often see informational tables where I can learn about community projects or take part in giveaways.
Volunteers in non-profit shirts help guide guests from session to session. These groups make the festival welcoming for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
I like to plan ahead so I don’t miss anything fun at the Hawaii Book and Music Festival. Exploring different areas helps me enjoy each moment, from live shows to family activities.
Recommended Experiences
I always check out the main stage performances, where local musicians and authors share their work. Live readings and music bring Hawaii’s stories and songs to life.
I visit different pavilions to see unique books, listen to panel talks, or join workshops. Food booths are scattered around so I can enjoy a snack between activities.
Sometimes I find books with “I’m free” sticky notes waiting to be picked up and read. Outdoor areas like the lawn or “lani” spaces are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the festival atmosphere.
A quick look at the schedule each morning helps me decide what performances or author sessions to catch first.
Navigating Different Stages
Each stage has its own focus, so I look for maps or guides when I arrive. For big performances, I head to the main stage.
Smaller stages host specialized discussions, concerts, or author Q&As. The Keiki Stage is a must-see if I’m with kids, offering activities for younger visitors.
To avoid getting lost, I pick a meeting spot with my group before heading off. Restrooms and water stations are easy to find near the main paths and big stages.
When I want to try new things, I walk around and follow the sounds of music or voices. The festival layout helps me discover something new at every turn.
Staff and volunteers answer questions, so I ask if I’m unsure where to go.
Family and Accessibility Services
For families, the Keiki Stage offers readings, crafts, and music for kids. There are play spaces and sometimes bounce houses where children can stay active.
I appreciate how family-friendly the festival grounds at Honolulu Hale are, with plenty of shady spots to relax. The festival provides free parking nearby, making it easy to come and go with children or elderly family members.
Accessibility services include ramps, wide pathways, and helpful staff. I can move around comfortably even if someone has mobility needs.
If I need help, I look for info booths near the entrance for answers on accessibility or lost and found.
Exploring Honolulu and Beyond
While I’m at the Hawaii Book and Music Festival, I love discovering what makes Honolulu and the rest of Hawaii special. There’s so much to see and do nearby, from famous sites to tasty food and places to stay.
Adventures on other islands like Maui can also be part of my trip.
Nearby Attractions
Honolulu is a lively city with a lot to offer. The festival often takes place at Honolulu Hale, the city’s historic civic center.
Just a short walk away, I can visit the Iolani Palace and learn about Hawaiian royalty. The King Kamehameha Statue and the Hawaii State Art Museum give me a closer look at Hawaiian history and culture.
If I want fresh air, I stroll around Ala Moana Beach Park or hike Diamond Head Crater for amazing ocean views. For families, the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo are fun options.
Public transportation and bike rentals make it easy for me to get around. I always find memorable sights and experiences close to the festival grounds.
Local Dining and Accommodations
When I get hungry, Honolulu offers many choices from local Hawaiian food to international cuisine. I like to try poke bowls, plate lunches, and malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery.
For casual meals, I visit food trucks and local diners near the festival area. If I want a sit-down restaurant, Chinatown is great for Asian food, and Waikiki has places with ocean views.
Here’s a quick list of top dining options:
- Helena’s Hawaiian Food: Classic Hawaiian dishes
- The Pig and the Lady: Modern Vietnamese
- Marukame Udon: Popular noodle shop
Hotels near Honolulu Hale include the Ala Moana Hotel and more budget-friendly options downtown. Boutique hotels in Waikiki give me easy access to both the festival and the beach.
Booking early helps with better rates and availability.
Visiting Maui and Other Islands
If I have extra time, I can take a short flight from Honolulu to other islands like Maui.
On Maui, I might explore Lahaina’s historic Front Street. I can also drive the scenic Road to Hana or watch the sunrise atop Haleakalā.
Each island has its own feel. Maui offers a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
The Big Island features volcanic landscapes. Kauai stands out for its lush scenery.
Island hopping lets me experience more Hawaiian culture. I can enjoy traditional music, dance, and unique local foods.
Airlines offer direct flights daily. Regular ferries make travel between islands easy.
I can plan my trip to match special festivals or events on other islands during my visit.
