Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hosts a variety of events in February. Hawaiian his carving demonstrations, talks about the rare and unique species and habitats the park protects, ranger-led programs, Kahuku his coffee, and more.
All events are free, but park admission fees may apply. Some programs are co-sponsored by Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hawaii Pacific Parks Association. Program may be changed or discontinued without notice. Check the park website and calendar for more information: www.nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes.
Seabird Monitoring at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, February 7, 7:00 PM: The ʻuaʻu (Hawaiian shearwater) and ʻakēʻakē (streaked shearwater) are seabirds that spend most of their lives in the open ocean, coming ashore only to breed. These endangered species nest in Mauna Loa’s barren lava flow burrows within the park. Charlotte Forbes Perry, a biologist at the University of Hawaii Pacific Collaborative Research Unit, and Dr. Michelle Reynolds and Dr. Slater of Hawaii Sniffer Dogs share their findings from the 2022 Seabird Surveillance System. The event, which takes place at the Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium, is part of Hawaii Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park program.
Learn Hawaiian-Style Carving, February 8, 10am-noon: The Hawaiians carved kii (statues) to represent the forces of nature, guardians, and the spiritual world. Renowned artist James Kanani Kaurukui Jr., who has worked at the sacred site of Kauai’s Ke Kahua o Kaneolouma Heiau, describes his expertise and the important role Kii played in Hawaiian society. share. This event is held at the Ohia Wing (across the Crater Rim He Drive from the Kilauea Visitor Center). This is part of the ongoing “Ike Hana No’o” (Experiencing Skilled Work) Hawaiian Cultural Program at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Virtual Visit to Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Sanctuary, February 14, 7:00 PM: Papahanaumokuakea is the largest fully protected protected area on earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This protected area is important habitat for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtle, and more than 14 million seabirds. The cultural reconnection of Native Hawaiians with these islands, and their active leadership in management, also ensure that this protection is enduring. Take a virtual visit to this amazing and remote region, hear how it’s managed and see what lies ahead. Kilauea Visitor Center His Auditorium event is part of his After Dark in the Park program underway at Hawaii Volcanoes.
Ben Kairi Concert, February 15, 7-8pm: Enjoy a concert by Hilo Hawaiian Slack Key guitarist and three-time Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner Ben Kaili and friends at the Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium. This is part of the Na Leo Manu (Heavenly Voice of Hawaiian Music) concert and presentation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Kahuku Coffee Talk: Anchialin Pool, February 18, 9:30 AM: The Anchialine Pools host one of the rarest ecosystems on earth, yet few people have heard of it. The Big Island of Hawaii has about 650 of the state’s estimated 700 anchialine pools. Aquatic biologist Anfarahi and park ranger Dean Gallagher virtually visit this hidden area, and Kahuku his visitors meet the fascinating and endemic little shrimp “opaeura” at the contact station. This is part of Hawaii Volcano’s ongoing Kahuku His Coffee Talk program.
ongoing program
Explore Kahuku Thursday through Sunday from 8am to 4pm. One of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s best kept secrets, the Kahuku unit is open Thursday through Sunday from 8 AM to 4 PM, free of charge. Guided ranger programs and talks are held on weekends. Check the park calendar for details. Sturdy footwear, water, rain gear, sunscreen and snacks are recommended for all hikes.
Kahuku is located in Kau, about a 50-minute drive south from the park’s main entrance. Enter Kahuku on the Mauka (inland) side of Hwy 11, near mile marker 70.5.
A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jagger.Travel back in time to 1939 and speak with Dr. Thomas A. Jagger, founder of the Hawaii Volcano Observatory on the edge of Kilauea Volcano. Actor Dick Hershberger in period costume brings the famous geologist to life. Learn why Dr. Jagger dedicated his life to studying Hawaii’s volcanoes and how his research helps save lives today. Space is limited. Pick up your complimentary ticket at the Kilauea Visitor Center Lanai on the day of the program. This program may be canceled in the event of bad weather. Supported by Kilauea Drama Entertainment Network.
The walk will take place on Friday 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th February at 10am and noon. One performance is about 1 hour. Meet at the Kilauea Visitor Center.
Stewardship at Summit Rainforest Restoration.Volunteer to help remove invasive alien plant species that interfere with native plant growth in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, daypack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Under 18? Must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with written consent. See the park’s website for details.
Restoration will take place on February 4th, 10th, 17th and 25th at 8:45am. Meet project leaders Paul Field and Jane Field at the Kilauea Visitor Center.
Explore summits and other ranger-led walks.Discover Kilauea Volcano on a ranger-led 1-hour easy walk offered daily. Other ranger-led programs may be offered. Check with the rangers at the Kilauea Visitor Center for other programs.
Exploring the summit is offered daily at 11am and 2pm. Meet at the Kilauea Visitor Center Lanai.
