2025 Festival Events
Ka'u Coffee Recipe Contest
Ka'u Coffee Mill
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 10am
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DIf you have a love for cooking and coffee, don't miss the chance to participate in the cooking competition at Ka‘u Coffee Mill, featuring dishes that incorporate Ka‘u coffee. You can showcase your culinary talent in one of three categories: pupu (appetizer), entree, or dessert, with entries judged by a panel. The competition costs $20 per entry, per category, and winners will receive prizes announced at the event. The deadline to register is May 20, 2025, by 3:30 PM. To register, send an email to events@kaucoffeemill.com.
Pa'ina & Open House
Pahala Plantation House
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Potluck. Donations Accepted
This event kicks off the festival week. Experience the history and charm of the historic Pahala Plantation House, enjoy music, hula, food and house tours, co-hosted by Ka‘u Coffee Growers Cooperative, Pahala Plantation Cottages and The Ka‘u Calendar newspaper. Learn about the history of Ka’u and its people, and mingle with the local coffee growers and their families.
Ka'u Mountain Hike & Lunch
Ka'u Coffee Mill
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Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 9am
Join the Ka‘u Mountain Hike & Lunch in the Wood Valley rainforest from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an adventurous exploration along historic flume systems from the sugar cane era, learning about hydroelectric power development while enjoying breathtaking views and the local flora and fauna. Limited to 30 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis, the cost is $85 per person, which includes lunch and snacks. To register, email events@kaucoffeemill.com; a waitlist will be available once spots are filled.
Ka'u Coffee & Cattle Day
Aikane Plantation Coffee Farm
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Thursday, May 29, 2025,
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If you love coffee and beef, you will love the Coffee & Cattle Day at the scenic Aikane Plantation Coffee Company, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will find out how descendants of Ka‘u’s first coffee farmer integrate coffee with pasture-raised beef, and how they manage their land sustainably. You will also get to see the cattle and the coffee trees up close, and learn about the different varieties and processing methods of Ka’u coffee.
The event will end with a sprawling, all-you can eat outdoor buffet featuring Ka’u coffee and beef dishes, as well as other local specialties. The event costs $35 per person and requires a reservation at (808) 927-2252.
Ka'u Star Gazing
Ka'u Coffee Mill
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Friday, May 30, 2025, 5:30pm
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Join the Stargazing Night at Ka’u Coffee Mill from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. for an unforgettable evening of celestial observation, guided by professional astronomers, in a prime location on the island. Enjoy learning about Hawaiian star mythology and its cultural significance while savoring a barbecue dinner. Limited to 30 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis. The cost is $85 per person, and parking is provided with a shuttle service to the viewing site. To secure your spot, email events@kaucoffeemill.com; a waitlist will be available once spots are filled.
Ho'olaule'a — Main Event
Pahala Community Center
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Saturday, May 31, 9-5
The grand finale of the Ka’u Coffee Festival is the Ho‘olaule‘a, a full day of fun and celebration at the Pahala Community Center, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You will enjoy live music, hula, local food and crafts, keiki activities, educational displays, guided coffee tastings and farm and mill tours. It’s a great place to “talk story” with Ka‘u coffee growers and learn more about their passion and dedication.
The Ka‘u Coffee Experience offers Ka‘u coffees prepared using a variety of brewing methods by professional baristas from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will be able to taste the difference and discover your favorite Ka’u coffee.