KAILUA-KONA, HAWAI’I ISLAND—The isle’s top chefs create tasty holiday fare and festive gingerbread displays at Christmas with the Chefs, Saturday, Dec. 7. Hawaii Island’s premier holiday extravaganza is 5:30-8 p.m. on the seaside grounds of Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel.

Members of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Kona Kohala Chefs Association delight attendees with plates of expertly prepared savory cuisine and delectable holiday treats—all accompanied by handcrafted ales, choice wines and 100 percent Kona coffee.

The Bill Noble Trio, with Jeannine Guillory-Kane on vocals, jazzes up the evening for dancing under the stars fronting historic Kamakahonu Bay. A silent auction will tempt would-be Santas with an array of holiday gift ideas while supporting local businesses. 

In its 31st year, the annual fundraiser benefits local culinary students attending Hawai‘i Community College—Palamanui and members of the Kona Kohala Chefs wanting to further their education. The silent auction is a benefit for the Palamanui culinary program through the ACF Kona Kohala Chefs and Jean Hull Endowment fund. Originating as Christmas at Hulihee, and moving to various locations over the years, the event’s scholarship focus has continued and a total of $900,000 in funds have been awarded. 

Tickets are $90 and sold online at www.konakohalachefs.org and at Westside Wines. Tables of 10 are $1250—which includes reserved table seating, table service and select bottles of wine—and can be purchased online. 

The host hotel is offering a special event room rate starting at $169 plus tax. Phone 808-331-6330 and ask for the “Christmas with the Chefs” rate. 

American Culinary Federation Kona Kohala Chefs Association : ACF is the largest, professional, non-profit organization for chefs and cooks in the nation. Founded in 1980, the Kona Kohala chapter is comprised of food service professionals, vendors, growers and culinary enthusiasts. The ACF Kona-Kohala Chefs Association Charitable & Education Fund is a 501c3 non-profit organization. www.konakohalachefs.org.