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If nothing else, you've got to love the fun, creative name of this West Kauai festival. It actually refers to the banana poka, a clinging vine commonly found in the vicinity. Banana poka, while pretty, can actually be a bit too prevalent, it crowds out many of the other plants. In order to combat it, the folks at Koke'e Park invite all and sundry to come and "round up" the vine once a year. Music, craft workshops and all kinds of get-to-know-nature activities are on the agenda as well. Complimentary admission. See website for yearly particulars.

As far as one-day festivals on Kauai go, this is as good as it gets. More than 8,000 people, both locals and tourists, make it out to Vidinha Stadium to celebrate the Fourth of July and raise money for a good cause. Well-known restaurants provide the food, while the music headliner is always a famous Hawaiian star. Plenty of other events take place throughout the day, wrapping up with a firework show at night. Proceeds from the annual festival benefit the local Hospice.

Is it any wonder that the citizens of Kaua'i take Earth Day very seriously? The island's natural beauty is its greatest claim to fame, and everyone, whether local or tourist, would like to see it stay that way. Residents and visitors alike can learn more about island ecology and preservation. Live music, food stands and cultural displays help to liven up the party. In the evening, a sumptuous all-you-can-eat luau meal is served. Complimentary admission; pay for meals. Note: The location listed below is tentative; check the Web site for up-to-the-minute information.

Ring in the holiday Kauai-style with this brightly-lit, evening parade. The event, which winds down Rice Street and ends at the island's biggest craft fair, includes a Christmas tree lighting as well as a light and decoration display at the historic County Building. Christmas folk art by Auntie Josie Chansky is among some of the beautiful offerings of the craft area. Entertainment, caroling, and of course, the floats of the parade all bring the holiday season to life. The opening ceremony takes place on December 7th beginning at 6p and lasts until 6:30p. The Park Lights Extravaganza and Santa & Mrs. Claus can all be enjoyed Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6p to 8p from December 7th until the 31st.

The beautiful scenes and smells of Hawaii are matched here in flavor through a variety of culinary fare from Kauai chefs. To go along with the fine foods, sample an assortment of wines, drinking through a souvenir glass. Highlights of the November event, held at the Terrace Restaurant at the Kiele Course at Kauai Lagoons, include a silent auction and sweepstakes and other entertainment. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society of Kauai. Call for ticket information.

The Kauai Music Festival is a boon to all aspiring musicians. Visitors can attend concerts of popular international artistes and learn songwriting techniques from leading American songwriters. The festival schedule includes one-on-one consultations with renowned personalities in the field of music, as well as a number of contests to test your songwriting and music skills. Tickets are available online. Check the Web site for updates.

It only just started in 2001, but this event's organizers are already referring to it as an annual occurrence. There's no reason why it shouldn't become a tradition, either. A lot of great activities are packed into the three-day event. Graceful hula dancers, impressive Samoan Fireknife performers, and obscure yet talented musicians make an appearance on the festival stage. Delicious native foods are served. There are even hands-on workshops for people who aren't content to simply watch from the sidelines.

Equal parts street fair, festival and celebration of heritage, this week-long event is popular with Hawaiian locals and tourists. Ostensibly, it celebrates the history of the sugar trade, something that was instrumental to Kauai's commercial development and racially diverse community. However, it's really more of an excuse to frolic and have fun. Check out the "Backyard Jam" Parade or the Sheraton's Block Party. Rodeo events, live entertainment and craft fairs are also part of the festivities. Admission is free.

A spirit of camaraderie and purpose prevails at this annual fund raising event. Kauai participants will walk a course that measures a little over three miles, beginning and ending at Kukui Grove Park in Lihue. Local entertainers provide music, while onlookers encourage the walkers and pit stops offer refreshment. Charity Walks take place on three of Kauai's neighbor islands simultaneously. Although Hawaii Hotel Association sponsors this event, you don't need to be a member or even know a member in order to participate. Simply collect the minimum pledge and show up at the starting line.