Saturday, December 15: 
Na Mea Hawai`i Hula Kahiko Performance. Featuring Kahula `O Nawahine Noho Pu`ukapu with kumu hula Ana Nawahine Kaho`opi`i, this outdoor presentation takes place rain or shine at the hula platform located near VAC Gallery. The audience is encouraged to bring sitting mats and sun/rain gear. Participate in hands-on cultural demonstrations from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at VAC Gallery porch. Free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply. For information, call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanohula.com.

Saturday, December 15: 
Rita Rudner.  Voted “Best Comedian in Las Vegas” by the Las Vegas Review-Journal for the past decade, Rita has become one of the most beloved performers in a city filled with cabarets and production shows. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, McCoy Studio Theater, 7:30 p.m. For tickets and information call (808) 242-7469 or visit www.mauiarts.org.

Thursday, December 13: 
Gabriel Iglesias – Aloha Fluffy 2012.  Gabriel Iglesias has been described as unbelievably witty, electrifying and a talented performer. Gabriel’s clean and animated comedy style has earned national crossover appeal, making him popular with fans of all ages. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Castle Theater, 7:30 p.m. For tickets and information call (808) 242-7469 or visit www.mauiarts.org.

Sunday, December 9: 
Kauai Polynesian Festival.  Holiday Hula Celebration at the Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort & Spa, 6 p.m.  For information call (808) 241-6394.

Monday, December 10: 
Christmas Gifts Concert. Enjoy a rich mixture of music, song and dance by talented young performers from Kauai. Christmas craft fair, refreshments for purchase, photo gallery and performance DVD pre-sale. Tickets are $8. Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.  For information or ticket sales, call (808) 652-0706.

Saturday, December 8:
Garden Isle Artisan Fair.  More than 40 local artisans showcase an array of handcrafted products from Kaua`i and throughout Polynesia. The event offers an opportunity to see the wealth of local talent on the Garden Isle. Feast on local plate lunches, Shave ice, Smoothies. Kilauea Mini Golf Park, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Free. For information call Judy Webb at (808) 245-9021.

Saturday, December 8: 
Christmas at the Fairmont Orchid: Dining with the Chefs.  A sumptuous holiday gala with tantalizing cuisine by top island chefs, handcrafted ales, wines and Kona coffee, plus entertainment and live auction. A scholarship fundraiser presented by the American Culinary Foundation, Kona Kohala Chefs Association. Fee charged. 5:30 p.m.  Fairmont Orchid Hotel, 1 North Kaniku Drive, Kamuela.  For tickets and information call (808) 329-2522 or visit www.fairmont.com/orc/ChristmasatTheFairmont.

Saturday Evenings: 
Kapa`a Slack Key Saturdays.  Traditional Hawaiian slack key guitar and `ukulele concerts.  December 1 – Spirit of Slack Key; December 8 – Kauai Slack Key; December 15 – Heart of Slack Key; December 22 – Slack Key Tour of the Islands; December 29 – Legends of Slack Key.  Tickets: $20 ($15 keiki/seniors).  A portion of the proceeds supports Na Keiki `O ka `Aina. Located in the Children of the Land Cultural Center, Kaua`i Village (Safeway/Longs) Center, Kapa`a.  5:00 p.m.  For information and reservations call (808) 826-1469 or visit www.mcmasterkslackkey.com.

Saturday, December 8: 
Mapa’s Nutcracker Sweets.  Maui Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA) presents a delightful, family-friendly production of the treasured classic. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Castle Theater, two shows – 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. For tickets and information call (808) 242-7469 or visit www.mauiarts.org.

Every Friday: 
Aloha Fridays at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Every Friday. A free hands-on demonstration lesson is given in a cultural craft that will vary from week to week. Held at VAC Gallery porch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  All events are free (donations welcome); park entrance fees apply. For information call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volccanoartcenter.org.