This year has been a tough year for a lot of businesses, but let’s take a moment and think about the struggling tourist destinations that have had to shut their doors due to the pandemic. Is there someone in your life that is inspiringly generous? This Christmas, consider making a donation to a Big Island museum in their name—it serves a good cause and is an incredibly touching present to give the history/science/culture lover in your life.
Here’s a list of local museums and non-profits to help you spread some Christmas cheer this year:
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
This highly sought after Hawai’i attraction provides extensive knowledge on our Island’s volcanoes in addition to offering some epic hiking trails through the craters. But, as a national park, it needs your help to stay afloat! If this is a gift for a Big (or Maui) Islander, an annual Tri-Park Pass is $55.
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Serving as a living memorial for those who have tragically lost their lives in tsunami catastrophes in years past and as an educational resource for those who could be affected in the future, the museum remains closed due to the pandemic. That said, donations are welcomed to maintain this essential community resource. For an annual contribution (levels vary) you can give the gift of Pacific Tsunami Museum “friendship.”
Kona Historical Society
Because many in-person educational programs have had to be canceled this year, Kona Historical Society’s historical centers, Kalukalu, Kona Coffee Living History Farm, Jean Greenwell Library & Archive, and Hanohano ‘O Kona are relying on your participation in their virtual programs and resources, as well as donations, to remain as an impactful historical resource for the Big Island.
‘Imiloa Astronomy Center
‘Imiloa Astronomy Center needs your help to continue the great research they’re doing to discover the unknowns of the universe while their doors are closed. Donate to support ‘Imiloa’s efforts in sharing Hawai’i’s legacy of exploration or become a member to become a part of the discovery.
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
In order to keep our community and its visitors informed about the Big Island’s past, Laupahoehoe Train Museum is a great place to donate or purchase a membership in honor of the train buff in your family.
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center is a haven for environmental education about the Hawaiian Islands by giving visitors a peak into the natural environment around us through aquariums, interactive exhibits, and lifesize models of native animals that live in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Because they are currently closed, they could use your help this holiday season.
Hulihe’e Palace
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Hulihe’e Palace has been an educational center for the community since 1973 that has been a monumental service in preserving the memory of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani. Consider becoming a member of the Daughters of Hawai’i or donating to keep these educational programs available to our community.
Hawai’i Plantation Museum
Museum founder, Wayne Subica Sr., opened Hawai’i Plantation Museum to be an educational center to teach and commemorate historic Hawaiian artifacts, as well as Hawaiian lifestyles from years past to present. They also host enriching events such as painting classes and sell and educational seminars. Hawai’i Plantation Museum remains closed until further notice, but your support can help them continue preserving Hawaiian culture when it’s safe to do so.
Volcano Art Center
Founded in 1974, Volcano Art Center showcases over 230 local artists and offers enriching tours, movie events, and cultural demonstrations. Help support local artists this Christmas by becoming a member or a one-time donor!
