Smoke it up! Hawaii Island

*Paid registration is required for this event. Visit here to register.

Smoke it Up! is more than a smoked meats festival. It’s a celebration of local food, community-driven innovation, and what’s possible when we work together.

What began as an effort to address Lower Puna’s feral pig population has grown into a broader movement to strengthen Hawai‘i Island’s food systems. By bringing together hunters, ranchers, chefs, entrepreneurs, philanthropy, and government, we’re working to expand local harvesting, meat processing, and shared facilities that create economic opportunities and strengthen food security.

This year, we’re honoring the ranchers of Ka‘ū impacted by Hurricane Lala. By showcasing their livestock, we’re highlighting both the importance and vulnerability of our local food systems – and why building resilience matters.

We want every bite – whether it’s pua‘a, beef, fish, or another local favorite – to do more than taste amazing. We want it to spark conversations, inspire action, and remind us of the incredible resources and talent we have right here on Hawai‘i Island.

Come enjoy delicious food prepared by local chefs, drinks by local mixologists, connect with the people behind our local food systems, and support our efforts to expand processing and value-added food production in Lower Puna.

Join us Saturday, November 14, from 2–5 PM at Hale Hālāwai o Puna (former Akebono Theater lot) in downtown Pāhoa.