We love to support Hawaii’s local artisans and makers, especially this time of year. That’s why we’re excited to tell you about the Hilo Farmer’s Market just around the corner in Hilo, Hawaii. Hilo Farmer’s Market is an open market in downtown Hilo that feature’s the best of Hawaii’s locally grown produce, flowers, artisan crafts and more.

Right in the center of downtown Hilo, this popular farmer’s market touts the reputation of being the best open market in the state. You never know what you’re going to find, but it’s likely you’ll come across something you can’t buy anywhere else. Items like locally sourced and roasted coffee beans, exotic fruit, and sweet treats like butter mochi.

Plus, just about everything here is reasonably priced. The best deals can be found on locally grown fruit, vegetables, herbs, island jams and jellies, macadamia nuts and baked goods. Also, 95 percent of Hawaiian papayas are grown on the east side of the Big Island, so snatch up as many as you can when they’re in season – they’re delicious! Look for strawberry papayas also. A local favorite, strawberry papayas look like regular papayas, but their pinkish-orange flesh is sweeter and juicier.

Fresh produce and baked goods, while delicious, are actually just a small part of the magic at the Hilo Farmer’s Market. Over 200 vendors of all kinds set up shop to sell their items. Hand-made crafts and fresh flowers are abundant. In fact, big buckets of fresh orchids and anthuriums are everywhere. Plus, you can go home with one-of-a-kind items like wind chimes, etched glass, and koa wood treasures. Looking for a souvenir like a t-shirt of lei? Hilo Farmer’s Market has those too. Shopping for gifts? Take a look at our top picks for the holidays this year:

  • Fresh fruit: figs, kumquats, tangerines, and thimbleberries
  • Market specials: banana boxes, watercress, and taro leaves
  • Sea Sister’s handmade hammocks
  • Handcrafted sarongs and jewelry from Sri’s

Get there early to shop for the best selection. The market is open year-round every Wednesday and Saturday from 6 am to 4 pm but some vendors are there every day beginning at 7 am. The Hilo Farmer’s Market attracts both locals and passers-through with the freshest items at the best prices.

If you love shopping, exploring new places, and immersing yourself in local culture, the Hilo Farmer’s Market is definitely for you. Kilauea Hospitality Group is at the center of it all – just stone’s throw from downtown Hilo, at Kilauea Hospitality Group, you’ll get the best the Big Island has to offer. Book your room today.