The National Park Service has paused After Dark in the Park, its free Tuesday-evening talk series, and the other programs held in the Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium for the visitor center renovation. The building, its restrooms, its lānai (covered porch) and about half its parking have been closed since early 2025.
The park service expects the visitor center to reopen in late 2026. Until then, a temporary Welcome Center and the park store are at Kīlauea Military Camp, open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Before the closure, scientists, artists and cultural experts spoke in the auditorium on select Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on park topics such as the eruptions and Hawaiian culture. The talks are free, and you still pay the park entrance fee of $30 per private vehicle.
Evenings at Kīlauea while the talks are suspended
The park stays open 24 hours through the construction, so you can still drive to the crater rim after dark. Kīlauea has erupted in episodes from Halemaʻumaʻu crater since December 23, 2024, with pauses of weeks between the lava fountains, so a night glow is not guaranteed. Check the current lava status and ways to see the eruption before you head up, and bring a warm layer for the rim at night.
Staying overnight in one of the Volcano Village vacation rentals saves the drive back to Kona or Hilo after a late visit to the rim.