Art and culture enthusiasm in Hawai'i won't have to spend a dime for a series of upcoming all-ages events at the Hawai'i State Art Museum this fall. According to a news release from the Hawai'i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, the "Capitol Modern" is hosting a variety of free public gatherings, including music nights, cultural workshops, and youth-focused festivities.
According to Hawaii SFCA, the schedule kicks off with Youth Pride Honolulu's Rainbow Prom, themed "Red Carpet Ready" on October 10, promising a night of music, dance, drag performances, and food for the youth aged 14 - 20. Getting hands-on with climate consciousness, kids as young as five can build a "squawkie talkie" under the guidance of Climate Action Artist-in-Residence, Benjamin Fairfield, on October 11, with materials provided during the free workshop.
Musical vibes continue throughout the month with "Island Pulse", a reggae music night featuring local artists like Likkle Jordee and Moman on October 17. A dive into Filipino heritage awaits on October 18 with the Pamana Kids Workshop at the museum, offering a rich palette of storytelling, language, songs, and games.
The spirit of Filipino-American culture takes center stage on October 25 at "Sakada to Cypher: Island Gongster Edition". The festival will boast performances from NPR's 2025 Tiny Desk Contest winner Ruby Ibarra and several local talents like the Sala Karayan Dance Project. November keeps the momentum with events such as "First Friday: A Night at the Museum" on November 7 and another "Island Pulse" night on November 21, filled with art and reggae.
As 2025 winds down, the museum also honors Hawai'i’s State Poet Laureate, Brandy Nālani, during the December 5 "First Friday", followed by one more "Island Pulse" reggae night on December 19. Noted by the SFCA, events like these are subject to changes and updates, with more information available on their official websites and social media. Museum hours are currently scheduled from Wednesday to Saturday, with special evening hours during the monthly events.
