Thursday, July 4: 
Parker Ranch July 4^th Races and Rodeo:  Celebrate July 4th at the Parker Ranch Horse Races and Rodeo, an annual event at Hawaii’s oldest and largest ranch. Cowboys (and cowgirls) from Hawaii Island ranches take part in the races and in the rodeo events. See the “traditional” rodeo events, plus those only in Hawaii.  The Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena is between the Waimea-Kohala Airport and Waimea town.  Plenty of parking available. Allow an hour if driving from Kona or Hilo.  9 a.m. until noon. Tickets in advance at the Parker Ranch Store ($5) or at the gate ($6) with children 10 and under free.  For information call (808) 885-7311or visit www.parkerranch.com.

Thursday, July 4: 
Fourth of July Concert in the Park.  The annual celebration outdoors on the Lahaina Library Lawn, Front Street, features fireworks and traditional holiday music performed by the Maui Community Band. Preshow entertainment by UH-Maui Institute of Hawaiian Music under the direction of George Kahumoku, Jr.  4:30 to 10 p.m.  For information call (808) 283-3576.

Thursday, July 4: 
Independence Day at Pacific Aviation Museum.  Melemai Kau`uwaimai Vocal Ensemble performs patriotic songs, songs of peace and inspiration, 12 noon, Hangar 37. Free with Museum admission.  Pacific Aviation Museum, 319 Lexington Blvd., Honolulu.  For information call (808)441-1000 or visit www.pacificaviationmuseum.org.

Thursday  – Sunday, July 4 – 7:  58^th Annual Makawao Rodeo.  Enjoy a weekend full of rodeo fun, including local venders, food and refreshments.  Presented by the Maui Roping Club at the Oski Rice Arena.  Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. – Qualifying runs (free admission); Friday, 7 p.m. – Bull Bash, $15 adults; Saturday & Sunday, 1 p.m. – Rodeo, $15 adults, $10 seniors & students, $5 under 12.  Free shuttle Saturday to and from town to watch the parade.  For information call (808) 357-3524.

Thursday, July 4: 
County Band Concert in Hilo.  The 40-member strong Hawaii County Band is an Island musical treasure. The band plays a tapestry of seasonal works, Hawaiian pieces, overtures, movie themes and more. Held at Mo`oheau Park Bandstand in downtown Hilo at 7 p.m., preceding the fireworks over Hilo Bay.  Bring blankets or chairs to sit on. And remember, Hilo town can be rainy! Free.  For information call (808) 961-8699.

Thursday, July 4: 
22^nd Annual Ala Moana Center 4^th of July Spectacular.  Topping the bill are live concerts by Hawaii’s own entertainers. Experience one of the most dazzling 4th of July fireworks display in Hawaii.  Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu.  Centerstage – 12 noon – 4 p.m.; Parking Deck Concert – 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.; Fireworks Spectacular – 8:30 p.m.  For information call (808) 955-9517 or visit www.alamoanacenter.com.