Overview of Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival in Kona If you’re a fan of a good Mai Tai, then you will want to attend the annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival. The festival takes place each August at the Royal Kona Resort in Kailua-Kona Hawaii. Mai Tai Competition They gather the very best bartenders from around the world to participate in their Mai Tai Mix-Off competition. The creativity and skill on display makes it a fun and action-packed event with a big $10,000 first prize at stake for the “World’s Best Mai Tai.” Mai Tai Festival Admission Admission to the festival is free and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and while some booths will accept credit cards, others will require the purchase of Scrip from the event booths. Having some cash on hand is always a good idea at these events. Mai Tai Festival Schedule of Events Saturday August 17, 2019 The Mai Tai Festival is a full day of fun and activities starting at 11 am and running until 7:30 pm. The event includes a Battle of the BBQ cook-off, a local goods marketplace, a poolside party with live music and the Mai Tai Mix-Off. Battle of the BBQ11am – 4pmPurchase taster plates from booths by local restaurants and chefs competing for World’s Best BBQ title. Vote for your favorites (voting open 11am-1:30pm). Mai Tai Marketplace11am – 4pmBrowse handcrafted items from local artists and vendors. Poolside Party2pm – 4pmEnjoy live music and performances poolside. Mai Tai Mix Off4:30pm – 7:30pmWatch as bartenders