The holiday season in Hawaii bursts with fun and unique celebrations you won’t find anywhere else. The best holiday events in Hawaii bring together island traditions, beautiful lights, and the warmth of aloha.
Whether you live here or are just visiting, you will always find something special to enjoy.
From lively parades and Christmas hula shows to food festivals and markets with handcrafted gifts, everyone can find an event to enjoy. Oahu stands out with its popular Honolulu City Lights and New Year’s Eve fireworks, but every island has its own charm.
If you want unforgettable holiday memories, get ready for some of the top events happening across the Hawaiian Islands.
Let me share some of my favorite holiday events that make December in Hawaii so bright and joyful.
Overview of Holiday Events in Hawaii
Holiday events in Hawaii combine bright lights, joyful music, and island traditions. You can find everything from parades to hula shows, with special touches that make each celebration unique.
Popular Types of Celebrations
Each island in Hawaii offers its own lineup of holiday events. On Oahu, the Honolulu City Lights festival draws crowds with a massive tree, colorful displays, and local entertainment.
Waikiki hosts the Waikiki Holiday Parade, which honors Pearl Harbor survivors with bands and torch-lit processions. Christmas hula shows in places like Lahaina and Waikiki help share the spirit of the season in true Hawaiian fashion.
Many towns organize festive craft fairs where you can find locally made gifts and holiday treats. Community movie nights and photos with Santa offer family-friendly fun.
Mele Kalikimaka Marketplaces and beachside fireworks add to the excitement. Food-focused events like special buffets and luaus let you taste Hawaiian holiday fare.
You can check local guides for things to do in Hawaii during Christmas or find the best holiday events across the islands.
Unique Traditions and Customs
The islands’ blend of cultures shapes Hawaii’s holiday events. People string Christmas lights over palm trees and build sandmen on the beach instead of snowmen.
“Mele Kalikimaka” is how people say “Merry Christmas” in Hawaiian, and you’ll hear it sung at many gatherings. Santa often arrives by canoe or outrigger, bringing aloha instead of reindeer.
Hula performances feature holiday songs mixed with Hawaiian chants and dance. Churches host midnight services, reflecting a strong sense of community.
Sharing food is important, and you might enjoy dishes like kalua pig, poke, and haupia at a holiday potluck or luau. Neighborhoods decorate their homes with tropical-themed lights, making evening walks a delight.
Best Times to Visit for Seasonal Events
The best time to catch holiday action in Hawaii is from mid-November through New Year’s Day. Festivities begin around Thanksgiving, but December is the busiest month for holiday activities.
Larger events like Honolulu City Lights usually start in early December. The famous Waikiki Holiday Parade often happens at the end of November, launching the season with marching bands and a torch-lit route down Kalakaua Avenue, as listed on several event calendars for Hawaii.
Plan your trip for early or mid-December to enjoy both big city celebrations and small town traditions. Weekends offer the most festivals, craft fairs, and special performances.
Some events require advance tickets, especially buffets or boat parades, so always check local listings for the latest schedules. If you stay through New Year’s, you can enjoy even more fireworks and late-night celebrations along the beach.
Signature Holiday Festivals and Parades
During the holidays, Hawaii offers unique festivals and parades that blend island culture, community spirit, and beautiful displays. These events bring locals and visitors together for unforgettable celebrations around the islands.
Honolulu City Lights
Honolulu City Lights is a favorite tradition on Oahu. Every December, downtown Honolulu transforms into a bright and cheerful winter wonderland.
The event starts with the lighting of a giant Christmas tree in front of Honolulu Hale (City Hall). Colorful light displays, iconic Shaka Santa and Mrs. Claus statues, and festive decorations fill the area.
A block party, food trucks, and live music create a lively atmosphere. The decorated City Hall welcomes visitors with wreaths and trees inside.
Families can take free photos with Santa and enjoy keiki rides. Local schools and community groups perform, adding to the fun.
The Honolulu City Lights festival lasts through December, so you have plenty of time to see everything.
Honolulu Festival
The Honolulu Festival celebrates the many cultures that make up Hawaii. This three-day event takes place in March and focuses on friendship and harmony between Hawaii, Japan, and other Pacific Rim countries.
The parade on Kalakaua Avenue features dancers, musicians, and elaborate floats. Crafts, food booths, and live performances fill Waikiki with excitement.
Highlights include traditional Japanese taiko drumming, hula, and Chinese dragon dances. Families can enjoy kid-friendly arts and interactive workshops.
The festival ends with a big fireworks show over Waikiki Beach. You can learn more about the Honolulu Festival.
King Kamehameha Celebration
The King Kamehameha Celebration honors King Kamehameha the Great, who united the Hawaiian Islands. Every June, a grand floral parade features horses, paʻu riders, and floats decorated with fresh Hawaiian flowers.
The parade marches through downtown Honolulu, passing the King Kamehameha Statue, where people drape it with beautiful floral leis. Hula performances and live Hawaiian music often accompany the event.
This celebration takes place on all islands, not just Oahu. Craft fairs and cultural exhibits highlight Hawaiian history.
If you want to experience deep traditions and a vibrant sense of aloha, the King Kamehameha Celebration is a must-see.
Christmas Events and Celebrations
Hawaii comes alive with festive lights, live music, and unique traditions each December. From citywide light parades to cultural holiday shows, you’ll always find something fun and memorable.
Christmas in Hawaii
Christmas in Hawaii feels special because of the warm weather, palm trees, and the blend of local and Western traditions. Honolulu City Lights kicks off the season with a giant 50-foot tree lighting at Honolulu Hale.
The event features a colorful Electric Light Parade and holiday-themed displays that brighten downtown Honolulu. Many communities join in with craft fairs, parades, and pop-up markets.
Exploring these events lets you find locally made gifts and taste seasonal snacks like malasadas and haupia pie. The Christmas spirit and Aloha hospitality shine everywhere—from Waikiki Beach to neighborhood parks.
Families gather for outdoor gatherings, music, hula performances, and ukulele carols. This blend of tradition and island style makes Christmas in Hawaii truly unique.
Hawaiian Christmas Show
Holiday shows in Hawaii mix modern and Hawaiian culture with colorful performances. The Christmas Luau offers music, storytelling, and dancing, focusing on family and local legends.
Venues, hotels, or cultural centers host these shows. “Christmas In Tahiti,” held at Blue Note Hawaii by the Kuana Torres Kahele Band, stands out.
The show combines tropical melodies with holiday favorites, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Guests enjoy classic Hawaiian tunes, Christmas songs, and hula performances.
The Hawaiian Christmas Show is a festive and unique choice.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Local theaters and community groups bring the story of the Grinch to life in Hawaii. These family-friendly productions add a Hawaiian twist to the classic Dr. Seuss tale, using local jokes, pidgin English, and island costumes.
Children look forward to these performances, and some shows offer meet-and-greet opportunities with the cast. Sing-alongs and bright sets keep everyone entertained.
The message of kindness and community fits well with Hawaiian values. These shows run throughout December and introduce young guests to theater with a touch of aloha spirit.
‘Twas the Light Before Christmas
The “’Twas the Light Before Christmas” event charms with lantern parades and light displays, creating a magical feeling in several neighborhoods. Light shows inspire visitors, with streets and parks decorated in festive colors and creative designs.
Communities host their own “Light Before Christmas” parades, featuring floats, music, and school groups. Holiday music and dazzling lights bring smiles to everyone.
Some areas hold contests for the best decorated homes or businesses, making evening drives fun. School bands and choirs perform, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Families and friends can stroll through the displays, take photos, and enjoy the glow of the holiday season.
Theatrical Performances and Holiday Shows
The holidays in Hawaii offer many unique shows and performances. Classic ballets and live music fill the season with entertainment and showcase local talent.
The Nutcracker
Every December, The Nutcracker ballet takes the stage in Honolulu. The Hawai‘i Ballet Theatre and other local dance companies perform this famous story and add island style to the classic scenes.
Costumes and sets often reflect both Hawaiian and traditional styles. This blend makes the show special for families and visitors.
The Nutcracker usually runs in mid-to-late December. Major venues like the Hawaii Theatre host the performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Many parents bring children to experience their first ballet. The production is family-friendly.
Seating fills up fast, so get tickets in advance if you want good seats. For more information on showtimes and ticket prices, visit local arts calendars or check the theater’s announcements.
You can read more about The Nutcracker performances at Waikīkī Beach Stays.
Local Artists at Hawai‘i Theatre
The Hawai‘i Theatre hosts a full lineup of holiday events every December. Local musicians, hula troupes, and theater groups perform, offering a mix of holiday music, dance, and cultural shows.
Families enjoy everything from Christmas concerts to Hawaiian shows with live ukulele, slack-key guitar, and storytelling. Each event celebrates Hawaii’s creative talent and shares holiday cheer.
Some events feature Hawaiian language songs. Others include dance ensembles with colorful costumes.
If you want a true taste of island holidays, check the theater’s website for a detailed schedule. Find more about these events and artists through ML Hawaii’s list of holiday shows.
Christmas Markets and Craft Fairs
Hawaii bursts with holiday spirit every December. Locals and visitors can shop for handmade gifts, taste island treats, and meet local artists at these festive gatherings.
Christmas Craft Fair
I always find something special at the Christmas Craft Fair, one of Honolulu’s longest-running events. The Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site hosts this fair, featuring only locally made gifts and crafts.
The fair usually happens on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a huge variety of unique crafts, from jewelry to home decor.
The fair is family-friendly, with activities and food booths. It’s easy to enjoy a day out with loved ones.
Many sellers offer one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. I recommend arriving early because popular items can sell out.
For more event details including dates, visit this guide to Hawaii’s holiday craft fairs.
Quick Tips:
- Bring reusable shopping bags
- Some stalls accept only cash
- Parking can fill up fast, so consider carpooling
Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace
The Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace is another must-see during the holidays. This event takes place in Honolulu in early December and runs for two days.
I enjoy the lively atmosphere and the wide range of vendors selling holiday-themed gifts, ornaments, and snacks. The food and drinks are a highlight, with everything from local plate lunches to festive sweets.
Kids can take photos with Santa. Live music fills the air with Christmas cheer.
Many shoppers come for exclusive promotions and pop-up shops. It’s a good place to find last-minute presents or decorations.
Check local event listings or Christmas Market Hawaii guides for this year’s schedule and vendor lineup.
Highlights:
- Santa photo ops
- Holiday entertainment and music
- Unique island-inspired holiday gifts
Outdoor Activities and Festive Runs
Hawaii offers unique outdoor holiday events. Whether I want to join a lively run or take part in a ceremony, I can find a special way to celebrate the season.
Festivus 5K Run
The Festivus 5K Run is one of my favorite ways to stay active and spread holiday cheer on Maui. Kahana Beach Park hosts the event, where I can run or walk with stunning ocean views.
The event supports the Maui Food Bank, so my participation helps people in need. Families can join too, with a special Half Mile Keiki Dash for kids.
After the run, music and refreshments create a relaxed atmosphere at the finish line. Both locals and visitors join, making it a fun way to meet people and give back.
More details about dates and how to join are on the Hawaii Vacation Guide.
Lantern Floating Hawaii
Lantern Floating Hawaii is a touching ceremony held every Memorial Day at Ala Moana Beach Park on Oahu. Thousands of people gather on the beach at sunset for this peaceful event.
I can write messages or wishes on a paper lantern and set it afloat on the water. This honors loved ones who have passed or reflects personal hopes.
The floating lanterns create a beautiful, glowing scene on the ocean. The ceremony brings together people from many cultures and backgrounds.
Although not a traditional Christmas event, this ceremony feels meaningful during the holiday season. It offers a sense of togetherness and peace.
Cultural Festivals and Food-Centered Events
Hawaii’s special gatherings offer a real taste of local traditions and flavors. Each event combines celebration, local pride, and culinary fun.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival celebrates more than 200 years of coffee history on Hawaiʻi Island. Coffee lovers and local farmers fill the event with energy.
The festival offers guided tours of Kona coffee farms. I get to watch the coffee-making process, from bean to cup.
Many events let me try different brews from small farms in the area. The coffee cupping competition is a highlight, where expert judges pick the best Kona roast.
Art shows, live music, and parades add to the lively atmosphere. The festival usually lasts about 10 days in November.
Kids enjoy craft lessons, games, and food stands. The event is rooted in Hawaiian history and brings the community together.
For more info, check out the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival.
Waikiki Spam Jam
Spam Jam in Waikīkī is one of the most popular street festivals in Honolulu. Spam has become a beloved part of local cuisine.
Streets close down for food booths and live music stages. I can sample creative dishes such as Spam tacos, Spam musubi, and even Spam desserts.
Restaurants and chefs around Waikīkī create new dishes with Spam. There’s always something different to taste.
Hawaiian dance, hula shows, and performances by local musicians fill the event with energy. Souvenir stands and games add to the fun.
Spam Jam supports local charities and spreads the spirit of aloha. For details, see the Waikiki Spam Jam.
Spam Jam in Waikīkī
Each year, Kalākaua Avenue fills with people excited about Spam. The event feels inclusive and lively.
More than fifteen restaurants set up booths with exclusive Spam-themed dishes. I see Spam blended with rice, pineapple, seaweed, and sweet chili sauce.
Live bands play Hawaiian music, and street performers entertain crowds. Booths sell limited-edition Spam gifts and local crafts.
Spam Jam is free and open to all ages. The event raises money and awareness for Oʻahu food banks.
If you want to join a local celebration, read up on Spam Jam in Waikīkī.
Dining and Special Holiday Experiences
During the holiday season in Hawaii, I love discovering unique dining options and special experiences. There are festive buffets at local restaurants and fun ways to tour beautiful holiday lights.
Holiday Meals at Local Restaurants
Many restaurants in Oʻahu and across Hawaii serve festive meals during December. Several locations offer special holiday buffets and prix fixe menus, so I don’t have to cook or worry about cleanup.
These restaurants serve turkey, ham, fresh seafood, and local favorites like poke or kalua pork. Every meal gets a Hawaiian twist.
Hotels and resorts also host seasonal brunches and dinners with live music and pupus. If I plan ahead, I make reservations early because spots fill up fast.
For anyone visiting Honolulu or Waikīkī, checking out these holiday restaurant experiences is a great way to celebrate with delicious food and local hospitality.
Waikīkī Trolley Holiday Tours
Every December, the Waikīkī Trolley offers special holiday lights tours. I ride in an open-air trolley decorated with colorful lights.
We cruise through Honolulu’s most festive neighborhoods. The main highlight is seeing the giant holiday displays around Honolulu Hale.
I see the huge holiday tree and glowing decorations on the lawns. These tours run from early December until almost New Year’s.
The tours usually take place in the evenings. This makes it easy to fit into my plans.
The trolleys are family-friendly. They offer a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere.
For tickets and schedules, I check the Waikīkī holiday trolley tour details before I go.
