Tickets are selling fast! This event will sell out. Walk-up tickets may not be available day-of.

ABOUT THE EVENT

Cool Fusion: Festival of 1000 Bowls returns to the Donkey Mill Art Center this September, celebrating our vibrant arts community and shared love of ceramics.

We're bringing back the original hiyashi somen noodle recipe alongside a fresh lineup of thoughtfully curated experiences, including live music and performances, ceramic demonstrations, interactive art activities, and the opportunity to explore and purchase 1,000 unique, hand-thrown ceramic bowls.

As always, your ticket includes a complimentary hand-thrown bowl of your choice from our incredible collection of expertly crafted ceramics by local artists. Enjoy your hiyashi somen in your selected bowl, then take it home to enjoy for years to come!

DATE

September 26, 2026 from 11:00am – 3:00pm

TICKETS

• Early Bird Ticket: $45 (*Pricing will increase on Tuesday, September 1)
• Keiki (12 and under): $25

VOLUNTEER

Interested in volunteering? Let us know! Learn more about event needs and sign up today. Events like these don't happen without you, mahalo nui loa.

EVENT DETAILS

Throughout the day, you'll be able to:

• Sip on refreshing shochu-inspired cocktails and mocktails

• Watch live ceramic demonstrations, ask questions, or sign up to try the pottery wheel yourself

• Savor the original Cool Fusion recipe: hiyashi somen, a refreshing Japanese cold noodle dish made fresh to order with vegetables and a light dashi broth

• Shop our newly released Donkey Mill and Cool Fusion merch, and hundreds of bowls and sets hand-thrown by our Mill ceramic artists -- who says you have to stop at one!

• Test your creativity with interactive art activities for adults and keiki alike

• Enjoy live music performances

• Browse local artwork and handmade gifts in our Gallery Shop and visit the exhibition currently on view

• Parking: A complimentary shuttle will be provided for those driving. Drop-offs are welcome! More detailed parking information to come

HOW IT WORKS

1. Buy your Cool Fusion ticket!
2. Arrive at the Donkey Mill anytime between 11:00am – 3:00pm.
3. At check-in, you'll receive tokens, which unlock activities, food, and beverages inside the event.
4. Choose your adventure—and your bowl! Redeem your tokens for the refreshments and activities of your choice throughout the event.
5. (Yes, you can always purchase more tokens later to keep the fun going!)
6. Shop, Play, Snack, Learn, Groove, Repeat! 

MAHALO NUI LOA

Cool Fusion is presented by The Hiroaki, Elaine & Lawrence Kono Foundation with additional support from Peter Durst and Ellen Seale, Hawaiʻi Island Humane Society, Sustainable Island Products, Wasabi Tours Hawai’i Kealakehe Culinary Department, Kona Dance and Performing Arts, Eric & Julie Ziemelis, Body Glove and KTA Superstores, and Spirited Cocktail.