The Big Island has cowboys ... and rodeos; foodies ... and food festivals; preservation ... and turtle releases; cultural awareness ... twilight at Kalahuipua'a, the Merry Monarch Festival, and the Lei Day Festival; athletic competitions ... Ironman Triathlons and golf tournaments.

Each month Mauna Lani's resident kahu (Hawaiian priest) Danny Kaniela Akaka invites malihini (visitors) and kama'aina (locals) to meet at the Mauna Lani's Eva Parker Woods Cottage for a relaxing and reflective discussion of Hawai'i.  The evening includes music, dance, and storytelling.  For additional information and specific dates and times, check out the hotel's website. 

http://www.maunalani.com/images/2007%20Twilight.pdf 

Each year 1,800 triathletes from around the world gather in Kona to compete against the very best. Whether you are participating (and would like luxurious accommodations for you and your family) or a spectator, the Kohala Coast is a perfect central point.

World Championship Schedule: October 11, 2008 ... http://www.ironmanlive.com/events/ironman/worldchampionship

May 30, 2009 ... http://www.ironmanlive.com/events/ironman70.3/honu70.3

Held each Independence Day weekend, the Parker Ranch Rodeo includes rodeo events, keiki (children's) events, food, and more.  (808-885-5669)

www.parkerranch.com

September, 2008 (look for updates on their website): This festival celebrates Hawaii's unique slack key guitar playing style.  Held at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona - admission is free (Noon to 6:00 p.m.) - 808-930-4900.

http://www.hawaiianslackkeyguitarfestivals.com/ 

October 3, 2008: One of Hawaii's premier food festivals, it is a venue for education to the public on local agricultural products. Over 20 local celebrity-, resort-, and restaurant-chefs prepare dishes.

Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. (808-329-0063)

www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/taste

November 7 - 16, 2008: The only coffee festival in the United States, it is Hawaii's oldest food festival. Featuring more than 50 events it includes cultural and culinary highlights.  808-236-7820

www.KonaCoffeeFest.com

January 15 -20, 2008 - join golf's greats at the Four Seasons Hualalai.   

http://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/s524/ 

Saturday, March 14, 2009, 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.: The 14th Annual Kona Brewers Festival will take place in Kailua-Kona. Not only does Hawaii offer world famous coffee, but you can savor local brews of beer as well.

http://www.konabrewersfestival.com/

April 12-18, 2009: The Merry Monarch Festival is held each spring in Hilo. It celebrates the tradition of hula, both ancient and modern, and pays tribute to Hawaii's beloved King Kalakaua and his devotion to the perpetuation of Hawaiian culture. Tickets must be purchased in advance and go on first sale in December. Visit the official website for additional information.

http://www.merriemonarchfestival.org/

The fourth Big Island Film Festival is scheduled for May 14 - 17, 2009 at the Queen's Marketplace in the Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Last year, award winning director David Winning and movie and television star D.B. Sweeney attended.

Make reservations online at http://www.BigIslandFilmFestival.com or by calling 808-883-0394.

July 4th - Each year three- and four-year old turtles raised in the ancient fish ponds of the Mauna Lani are released into the Pacific Ocean.  Call 808-885-6622 for additional information. 

August: The annual international billfish tournament, held in Kailua-Kona, will celebrate its 50th event in July, 2009.  Sportsmen from all over the world compete to tag the largest Pacific marlin - for its Golden Anniversary, 50 teams will be invited to participate.  Additional information is available on their website. 

http://www.hibtfishing.com/