About Koloa Plantation Days

Koloa Plantation Days is held on Kauai’s south shore every year in July. The many ethnic groups that came to Hawaii to work on sugar plantations, and the Hawaiians who welcomed them, are celebrated through music, dance, costumes, and food throughout this ten-day festival.

Plantation History

Held in the area where Hawaii’s first sugar plantation was founded in 1835, Koloa Plantation Days comprises a lively, family-oriented slate of events that showcase the area’s social history, its natural history, and its diverse cultural traditions. In addition, numerous events allow attendees to enjoy the sports activities and entertainment available at the gracious resorts in the Poipu and Koloa area. Most events are outdoors and free of charge.

Our Cultural Heritage

Koloa Plantation Days will also celebrate the immigrants who came from Philippines, Europe, the Azores, Japan, Korea, China, and elsewhere who contributed traditions, music, dances, and foods to the rich melting pot that is Hawaii. You’ll experience these cultures throughout the week from the first walk down Hapa Trail and a rodeo weekend featuring paniolo culture, through a variety of live music events and cultural performances, a historic exhibit and film night, craft fairs, culinary demonstrations and tasting events, Polynesian revue, and the historic parade and park celebration which brings all these elements together.

Hawaiian History

Hawaiian culture, traditions, crafts, and music are the foundation of this island, and various events will remind us and teach us about this culture and history. There are nature walks that reveal the unique flora, fauna, geology, and archaeology of the south shore, hosted talk stories including a guided view of Kaniolouma and a watercolor painting workshop in a pristine part of the coastline.

Koloa and Poipu Today

Koloa Plantation Days also celebrates the present-day vitality of Koloa and Poipu, a major visitor destination on Kauai. Resorts and businesses welcome visitors and residents to enjoy guided walks and talk stories, outdoor sports and a variety of themed keiki activities, live music and celebrations, and play golf and tennis. Everyone can also watch top rodeo competitors from the state and mainland.

Many community organizations, foundations, businesses, resorts, and residents provide many hours of volunteer work, locations for events, and financial support for this festival. It is also sponsored in part by the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

Brochures and newspapers will provide detailed schedules in July. For information on specific events, call the phone numbers listed in the schedule.