Saturday, March 23: 
Big Island International Marathon.  In this annual 26.2-mile marathon and 13.1-mile and 3.1-mile fun runs, participants run the coast of old Hawaii along the Pacific Ocean, through rainforests, past rushing waterfalls and along black lava beaches to finish at the historic Hilo Bay front. 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, 71 Banyan Dr., Hilo.  For information call (808) 969-7400.

Saturday, March 23: 
2^nd Annual Big Island Chocolate Festival.  This sweet and distinctive festival celebrates chocolate. Taste creations by the top chefs and chocolatiers of the Big Island along with fine wines and hand-crafted ales, live music and dancing, silent auction and more. Fee.  Fairmont Orchid, 1 North Kaniku Drive, Kamuela. 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.  For tickets and information call (808) 324-6100 or visit www.bigislandchocolatefestival.com.

Saturday, March 23:
Ho`omau 2013.  The annual fundraising event that supports programming for Pūnana Leo O Maui Hawaiian Language Immersion preschool. This is the premier Hawaiian language and entertainment event of the year for the entire family. Enjoy local Hawaiian musicians and entertainers, arts & crafts, great food, and silent and live auctions. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, 150 Kanaloa Ave., Wailuku.  9 a.m. to Sunset.  $15.  For information visit www.mnbg.org.