Hawaii, Big Island, July 4th Fireworks & Celebrations 2023

It’s shaping up to be a fantastic July 4th on Hawaii’s Big Island for 2023. Many of the traditional Independence Day celebrations are back in action. You’ll find excellent festivities and fireworks on both the Hilo or Kona sides of Hawaii Island.

Kailua – Kona July 4th Parade & Fireworks over Kailua Bay 2023

The annual Kailua-Kona parade and fireworks show is planned to be back in action this July 4th! The patriotic parade, which runs down Kuakini Highway and Ali’i Drive is set to start at 6:00 p.m. This year’s parade theme is “Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans.” The firework show over the bay is set to start at 8:00 p.m. The professional pyrotechnics set off from a barge moored in Kailua Bay. Check for any updates and to make a donation at this link.

Hilo Bay Blast Fireworks & Celebration 2023

Hilo hosts a wonderful day of fun and fireworks. We’ve confirmed that Hilo Bay Blast is back in action again this year.  Here’s the schedule of events for this July 4, 2023:

  • At 7:00 a.m., “A Salute to Our Veterans” Hilo Bay 5K Run/Walk 2023 will take place at the beautiful Lili’uokalani Gardens. For more information and to register to participate, see this link.
  • From 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m., the “Hot Rides Expo” car show will be held at the Hilo soccer fields (mauka fields.) This car show will feature vintage, classic and futuristic vehicles.
  • During the “Hot Rides Expo” there will be live music featuring Chip Douglas, OL’ School Band, Saddle Road, Johnny Ness and Hot Potaytahs. Food trucks will be available. The keiki (children) can enjoy activities including water slides and bounce houses. These fun activities will take place at the Hilo Bayfront Soccer fields.
  • At 7:00 p.m., the Hawaii County Band will perform at Mo’oheau Bandstand.
  • The big, “Hilo Bay Blast” fireworks show is set to begin at 8:00 p.m. The professional pyrotechnics are set off from a barge moored in Hilo Bay. The Hawaii County Band will play live music to accompany the fireworks. For those who are not near Mo’oheau Bandstand, the fireworks display will be synchronized to patriotic music aired on KWXX.

Waikoloa Beach Resort July 4th Activities – 2023

The two shopping centers within Waikoloa, Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace, host fun events including free, live entertainment and plenty of fun family-friendly activities.

  • Kings’ Shops hosts their annual Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race along fun, family-friendly Fourth of July activities. This event benefits the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawaii.  See this link for the schedule of events for 2023.
  • Queens’ Marketplace will hosts their 4th of July Extravaganza 2023 with live music, carnival games, popcorn and cotton candy from 2pm to 6pm. See this link for more details on this event.

Prior to 2020, Waikoloa Independent Day events culminated with a spectacular fireworks display over Waikoloa Bowl at Queens Gardens. Fireworks shows were not held in 2020, 2021 or 2022. We are checking to see if Waikoloa fireworks might be returning for 2023, but from what we’ve heard, it’s unlikely.

Annual Fourth of July Rodeo and Horse Races at Parker Ranch – 2023

The 59th Annual Parker Ranch July 4th Rodeo and Horse Race is to take place the morning of July 4th. Traditionally, this rodeo celebrates the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) and their skills. See this link for more information and how to obtain tickets.

Notes:

  • All events are subject to change without notice.
  • More events may be added or revised. Check back for updates.
  • Some events are very dependent upon fundraisers and local financial support. As such, they may be cancelled with little notice if they don’t raise enough funds. When/if we know of these situations, we will note them.
  • Personal fireworks, alcohol, drugs, tobacco use and e-cigs are prohibited at all county and state parks.
  • Operation of UAVs/drones within five miles of the Hilo and Kona airports as well as within county and state parks is prohibited.
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Happy July 4th!