What to Do in Hawaii for the Holiday Season

Hawaii transforms into a tropical wonderland during the holiday season, blending festive cheer with island vibes. As palm trees twinkle with lights and the beaches stay warm, visitors can enjoy unique traditions like Hawaiian-style Christmas parades, concerts, and artisan handicraft markets. Here are seven of the coolest events and activities to enjoy in Hawaii over the holiday season.

 

7 Activities and Events for the Hawaii Holiday Season

 

1. Royal Hawaiian Center Holiday Kick-Off and Aloha Santa Arrival

  • About: The start of the Hawaii holiday season is signaled by a vibrant event featuring local musicians and hula dancers. Watch a parade of traditional Christmas characters mixed with Hawaiian themes and see Aloha Santa himself light a 34-foot tree.

  • Tip: Stick around for live music, hula competitions, and the chance to snap a photo with Aloha Santa himself. 

  • Where: The Royal Grove, Royal Hawaiian Center (2201 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu)

  • When: Wednesday, November 27th, 2024

  • Price: Free

 

2. Waikiki Holiday Parade

  • About: In its 26th year, the Waikiki Holiday Parade honors the United States military soldiers who were part of the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack. Local bands, military marching bands, and veterans dressed in their uniforms and regalia lead a torch-lit parade through downtown Honolulu and Waikiki.

  • Tip: Arrive before the 7 pm start time to guarantee a good viewing spot. 

  • Where: Starting at Fort DeRussy, the parade continues along Kalākaua Avenue before ending at Kapiolani Beach Park.

  • When: Friday, November 29th, 2024

  • Price: Free

 

3. Honolulu City Lights

  • About: One of the best Honolulu Christmas events, come to see thousands of sparkling lights, themed displays, and a giant, 50-foot tree illuminate Honolulu Hale (City Hall) and the grounds of the civic center. You can fill up on ono grinds at food vendors, too.  

  • Tip: Bring the kids on the evening of Saturday, December 21st to get free cookies and milk from Santa (while they last). 

  • Where: Honolulu Hale (530 S King Street, Honolulu)

  • When: Sunday, December 7th through December 2024

  • Price: Free

 

4. Hapa Holiday Extravaganza

  • About: Join the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra for a magical evening of holiday sounds, singalongs, and special guest appearances. The setting for the event is the ornate and historical Hawaii Theatre.

  • Tip: Book as soon as possible to guarantee tickets.

  • Where: Hawaii Theatre (1130 Bethel St, Honolulu)

  • When: Saturday, December 7th, 2024

  • Price: From $10 to $110

 

5. Aloha Kalikimaka Marketplace

  • About: Experience a showcase of Hawaiʻi’s finest arts, crafts, food, and apparel. With 250 vendors, this festive market brings together an incredible variety of island products and one-of-a-kind creations for an authentic look at Hawaiian craftsmanship and culture.

  • Tip: Don’t miss the new, Christmas-themed Pet Zone. 

  • Where: Blaisdell Center (777 Ward Avenue, Honolulu)

  • When: Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December 2024

  • Price: Adults $6 and seniors $4. Free for children under 12, students, and veterans

 

6. Aloha Friday Holiday Music Series

  • About: Local musicians and hula dancers perform a mix of classic festive tunes and Hawaiian Christmas songs. Accompanied by a themed light show, it offers the chance to experience the Hawaii holiday season in a welcoming, outdoor setting. 

  • Tip: Combine the music with shopping at the 130-plus boutiques of Ward Village. 

  • Where: South Shore Market at Ward Village (1240 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu)

  • When: Friday 6th, 13th and 20th December 2024

  • Price: Free 

 

7. Christmas Luau

  • About: A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast and cultural celebration that brings together food, music, dance, and folkloric storytelling. Enjoy a buffet of iconic local dishes like kalua pig (slow-roasted pork) and poke (raw fish salad). A Christmas luau combines the best of Hawaiian and festive season traditions. 

  • Tip: Food is in abundance, so make sure to arrive with a big appetite. 

  • Where: Popular options include Ka Moana Luau (1 Aloha Tower Drive, Honolulu), Paradise Cove Luau (92-1089 Aliinui Drive, Kapolei) and Queens Waikiki Luau (2330 Kalākaua Ave, Waikiki). 

  • When: Nightly 

  • Price: From around $100 for adults. Discounts are usually available for children. 

 

Get the Most Out of the Hawaii Holiday Season

Whatever you decide to do during your trip to Oahu during the holiday season, you'll be only steps from it all and our glorious beaches when staying at the Waikiki Resort Hotel. Moreover, our curated Experiences & Amenities make it easy to immerse yourself in the island's fascinating culture.

Book your stay with us today and start planning an adventure packed with Hawaiian highlights and bags of festive cheer.