Pets, arts, crafts, entertainment and fun will be on tap on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 15-16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as the Hawaii Arts and Crafts presents the Hawaii Island Humane Society (HIHS) Family and Pet Expo at the Butler Building in Hilo.
“Nearly 100 vendors will be on hand at this much-anticipated event. From products and services to automobiles, games and prizes, the HIHS Farm and Pet Expo has something for everyone,” said HIHS Executive Director Donna Whitaker.
At the HIHS booth on Friday, Expo-goers can pick up their Krispy Kreme donuts which are available for presale from the Keaau shelter now until Thursday. They can also adopt a shelter pet or snag great HIHS logo items, Christmas ornaments, cards and more, which could all make excellent stocking stuffers.
On Saturday, in addition to HIHS goodies for sale, a Hawaii Island Humane Society silent auction will feature original art, jewelry, apparel, vintage music books, and more. The silent auction will run from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
As part of the Family & Pet Expo, there will be live entertainment throughout both days from mid-morning through late afternoon. Performers include Randy and Carol Fonseca, The Comedy Canines, Dan Nix, Ethan Swift, and a Tahitian drum performance by master drum designer and carver Alofa (Friday only). The Prosecutor’s Office will be on hand both days to issue keiki IDs. On Saturday, in addition to the musical lineup, Hawaii Balloon and Photo will present balloon sculpturing and Shear Magic Pet Salon will have a booth offering pet nail painting, picture taking with your pet and more.
“No event in Hawaii would be complete with delicious food, and the HIHS Family & Pet Expo is no exception,” said Whitaker. Food booths include Hawaiian plate lunches, Thai food, barbecue pork teriyaki, lau lau, Big Island Top Dog, burgers, freshly hand-cut French fries, wings, chow fun, fried saimin, Maui Waffle Dog, shave ice, and cotton candy.
Expo parking is on the large grassy area at the corner of Manono and Piilani streets near the Hilo Fairgrounds. Come early and stay for the day. Contact Marlene Vashishta, Hawaii Arts and Crafts executive director, at 981-0518, email hawaiiartsandcrafts@yahoo.com or visit hawaiiartsandcraftsfestival.com to learn more.
The mission of the Hawaii Island Humane Society is to promote respect for all animals, prevent cruelty to animals, eliminate pet overpopulation, and enhance the bond between humans and animals. HIHS holds a contract with the County of Hawaii to enforce certain animal-related laws and it offers 24-hour service for injured animals and other animal emergencies, humane education classes, low-cost spay and neuter services, lost and found assistance, micro-chipping and more. Learn more at HIHS.org or call 808-329-1175. For more information, visit hihs.org.
