While the Big Island is primarily known for its traditional cultural performances, there are emerging entertainment options that utilize artificial intelligence and high-tech immersion.

AI-Focused Entertainment

Paradise Unplugged Productions Backlot Tour: Marketed as the "world's first Artificial Intelligence Backlot tour," this experience takes visitors into the Hawaiian jungle to see the physical set designs used for AI-generated video shows. You can see original artwork, tropical plant set designs, and learn about the process of creating AI videos.
"AI – Artificial Improv" Comedy Show: Performed by the HI-larious Improv troupe at the Puna Chocolate Company in Kailua-Kona, this show uses the theme of artificial intelligence to drive interactive, on-the-spot comedic scenes and games.

High-Tech Immersive Shows

Flight of Aloha: Located at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort, this immersive "flying theater" uses 8K visuals and special effects like wind, mist, and scent to simulate soaring over Hawaiian landscapes. Visitors can also purchase immersive AI-generated photos on-site.
Hawaiʻi Triennial 2025 (HT25): Running from February 15 to May 4, 2025, this massive contemporary art exhibition expands to the Big Island for the first time, featuring 49 artists and collectives. Many installations leverage modern digital media to explore themes of resilience and culture.

Traditional Immersive Shows (Luʻaus)

For those seeking a traditional immersive experience with live performers, popular options include:

Voyagers of the Pacific Luau: Features a Polynesian stage production and a fire knife dance finale overlooking Kailua Bay. Book tickets via the Royal Kona Resort.
Island Breeze Luau: Voted "best in west Hawaii," this show includes a royal procession by outrigger canoe and dances from across the Pacific.
Mauna Kea Luau: A long-running oceanfront feast that includes a "Hukilau" hula demonstration and a fire knife finale. Reservations are available at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.

Are there other festivals on the Big Island in early 2025?

Tell me more about the Paradise Unplugged Productions Backlot Tour

Where can I find tickets for these luʻaus?

14 sites

Paradise Unplugged Productions Backlot Tour
The Paradise Unplugged Productions Backlot Tour is the world's first Artificial Intelligence Backlot tour. We have created a catal...
www.expedia.com
Hawaiʻi Triennial 2025 expands to Maui and Big Island, with nearly ...
Apr 1, 2024 — The event is the state's largest thematic exhibit of contemporary art and will be on display from Feb. 15 to May 4. The...
Hawaii Public Radio
Hawai'i Triennial 2025: Aloha Nō | Honolulu Museum of Art
February 15–May 4, 2025. Galleries 14 + 28 • Front lawn. Bringing together the work of 49 artists and artist collectives across mu...
Honolulu Museum of Art