Market Stories
Step inside the stories of Hilo Town Market—where every space holds history, every vendor has a dream, and every visit feels like a connection to the heart of our community. From its humble beginnings to the bustling market it is today, discover stories, updates, and the connections surrounding the heart of Hilo.
Hilo Town Market
Named a Top 10 Best Night Market in the U.S.
Recognized in USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2026
A big moment for Hilo
Hilo Town Market has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Best Night Markets in the United States, placing #10 in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best “Best Night Market” rankings.
This recognition belongs to our entire community of vendors, musicians, food makers, families, and visitors who turn Friday nights in historic downtown Hilo into something truly special.
Why this matters
Being named to a national Top 10 list shines a bigger spotlight on Hilo Town Market and on Hawaiʻi Island small businesses. It shows that our mix of local food, handmade goods, live music, and community connection stands out on a national level.
- Vendors gain a stronger story to share with customers, partners, and media.
- Patrons know their support is helping grow one of the country’s standout night markets.
- Hilo continues to be recognized as a vibrant, creative destination on Hawaiʻi Island.
2026 USA TODAY 10Best “Best Night Market” lineup
Hilo Town Market is honored to be listed alongside these amazing night markets from across the country:
- BeChinatown Night Market (San Francisco, California)
- Asian Night Market Festival (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
- Queens Night Market (Queens, New York)
- Sunset Night Market (San Francisco, California)
- Atlanta International Night Market (Atlanta, Georgia)
- CID Night Market (Seattle, Washington)
- Night Market at Scissortail Park (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
- Richmond Night Market (Richmond, Virginia)
- 626 Night Market (Arcadia, California)
- Hilo Town Market (Hilo, Hawaiʻi)
Mahalo, vendors and patrons
Mahalo to every vendor who shows up each week with quality products, ono food, and creativity. Mahalo to the performers, staff, and supporters who help turn the market into more than a place to shop — it is a gathering place that reflects the spirit
Groundation Live in Hilo: Bob Marley Tribute Show Announced for February 5th, 2026!
Get ready to feel the vibes, Big Island! We're absolutely thrilled to announce that Groundation, one of the most respected reggae bands in the world, is coming to Hilo Town Market for an unforgettable Bob Marley tribute show on February 5th, 2026. This is the kind of news that has us dancing in our flip-flops and we can barely contain our excitement!
How to Support Local Hawaiian Artists in 5 Minutes (Every Friday Night in Hilo)
Every Friday, downtown Hilo comes alive with live music, the aroma of local food, and a vibrant sense of community. At the heart of it all is our Friday Night Market. Supporting Hawaiian artists is as simple as dropping by, strolling through the market, and making one small purchase.
Friday Nights in Hilo: How Our Night Market Brings Community and Culture to Life
Every Friday night, the heart of Hilo beats a little louder. What began as a modest gathering of local vendors has grown into a lively night market that blends food, music, art, and connection in the center of our historic town.