The East Hawaii Cultural Center is an important force that promotes Hawaiian arts, culture and creative traditions. Since Hawaii is a multi-ethnic state, the council was founded in 1967 with six charter organizations that reflect the diversity of the Pacific islands. The cultural center is home to an effective alliance of arts organizations, including the Big Island Dance Council, Hawaii Concert Society, Bunka No Izumi, Kin Ryosho Dance Academy, and the Philippine Women's Circle.
Sample the variety of tastes and the unique flavor of local hops at the annual Kona Brewers Festival on the shores of Kailua Bay. The growing microbrewery movement in Hawaii promotes local companies and their art form.
The Manoa Valley Theatre specializes in producing Broadway and Off-Broadway plays and musicals, bringing many Hawaii premieres to the stage since its inception in 1969. The company was founded by a group of University of Hawaii graduate students, and in 1983 moved to its current 150-seat location.