Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2025
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu serves as a gateway to the Aloha State’s natural beauty and rich traditions. From the iconic Waikiki Beach and the historic Pearl Harbor to the majestic Diamond Head Crater and a thriving arts scene, Honolulu offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
The city’s calendar is filled with diverse events celebrating Hawaiian culture, music, food, and natural beauty. Whether you’re watching a hula performance, sampling the flavors of the islands at a food festival, or taking part in traditional ceremonies, Honolulu provides unique experiences that immerse visitors in the aloha spirit. Below is a detailed guide to events taking place in Honolulu including descriptions, highlights, and practical information to help you plan your trip.
January
New Year's 'Ohana Festival
- Date: January 1, 2025
- Location: Kapiolani Park, 3840 Paki Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 768-3003
- Description: Celebrate the New Year with this family-friendly event featuring cultural performances, local food vendors, and fireworks.
- Highlights: Traditional Hawaiian music, hula performances, food stalls offering local delicacies.
Honolulu City Lights
- Date: January 1-6, 2025
- Location: Honolulu Hale, 530 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Contact: (808) 768-6622
- Description: A month-long celebration of the holiday season with light displays, festive decorations, and community events.
- Highlights: Light displays, Christmas tree competition, photos with Santa.
Sony Open in Hawaii
- Date: January 6-12, 2025
- Location: Waialae Country Club, 4997 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
- Contact: (808) 738-9200
- Description: A premier PGA Tour event attracting top golfers from around the world.
- Highlights: Professional golf tournament, fan experiences, hospitality tents.
February
Chinese New Year Festival
- Date: February 1, 2025
- Location: Chinatown, Nuuanu Ave & Pauahi St, Honolulu, HI 96817
- Contact: (808) 521-3611
- Description: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with lion dances, fireworks, and traditional Chinese performances.
- Highlights: Lion and dragon dances, fireworks, cultural performances.
Great Aloha Run
- Date: February 17, 2025
- Location: Starts at Aloha Tower, 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813, ends at Aloha Stadium, 99-500 Salt Lake Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96818
- Contact: (808) 528-7388
- Description: An 8.15-mile run/walk from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium, benefiting local charities.
- Highlights: Fitness event, community participation, post-race entertainment.
Hawaii Salsa Festival
- Date: February 21-23, 2025
- Location: Sheraton Waikiki, 2255 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 922-4422
- Description: A weekend of salsa dancing, workshops, and live music.
- Highlights: Salsa workshops, live performances, social dancing.
March
Honolulu Festival
- Date: March 7-9, 2025
- Location: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 943-3500
- Description: A cultural festival promoting understanding and cooperation between Hawaii and the Pacific Rim.
- Highlights: Cultural performances, parade, fireworks show.
Prince Kuhio Day Celebration
- Date: March 26, 2025
- Location: Kuhio Beach Park, Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 923-1094
- Description: Honors the birthday of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole with a celebration of Hawaiian culture.
- Highlights: Hula performances, cultural exhibits, food vendors.
Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival
- Date: March 20-29, 2025
- Location: Doris Duke Theatre, 900 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96814
- Contact: (808) 532-8700
- Description: One of the longest-running LGBTQ+ film festivals in the United States.
- Highlights: Film screenings, panel discussions, opening night gala.
April
Merrie Monarch Festival
- Date: April 5-11, 2025
- Location: Hilo, HI (note: a day trip from Honolulu)
- Contact: (808) 935-9168
- Description: A week-long cultural festival featuring a prestigious hula competition.
- Highlights: Hula competitions, arts and crafts fair, cultural demonstrations.
SPAM Jam
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Location: Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 923-1094
- Description: A street festival celebrating Hawaii’s love for SPAM, featuring food booths and entertainment.
- Highlights: SPAM-themed dishes, live music, cooking demonstrations.
Hawaii Book & Music Festival
- Date: April 27-28, 2025
- Location: Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds, 558 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Contact: (808) 234-0404
- Description: Celebrates books, music, and the arts with author signings, performances, and panel discussions.
- Highlights: Author readings, live music, food vendors.
May
Lei Day Celebration
- Date: May 1, 2025
- Location: Kapiolani Park, 3840 Paki Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 768-3003
- Description: A celebration of Hawaii’s lei-making tradition with contests, entertainment, and cultural demonstrations.
- Highlights: Lei-making contests, hula performances, live music.
Lantern Floating Hawaii
- Date: May 26, 2025
- Location: Ala Moana Beach Park, 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
- Contact: (808) 545-5683
- Description: A beautiful ceremony where lanterns are floated on the water to honor deceased loved ones.
- Highlights: Lantern floating ceremony, live music, spiritual reflections.
Waikiki SPAM Jam
- Date: May 31, 2025
- Location: Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Contact: (808) 923-1094
- Description: A festival celebrating the versatility of SPAM with various food booths and entertainment.
- Highlights: SPAM-themed dishes, live entertainment, cooking demonstrations.
June
Pan-Pacific Festival
Date: June 14-16, 2025
Contact: (808) 926-8177
Website: pan-pacific-festival.com
Location: Various venues in Waikiki, including Kalakaua Avenue
The Pan-Pacific Festival is a cultural celebration that brings together traditions from across the Pacific Rim. This three-day event features live performances, food vendors, and a grand parade through Waikiki.
Highlights and Features: Experience traditional Japanese taiko drumming, Hawaiian hula, and other cultural performances. The festival’s parade along Kalakaua Avenue is a colorful spectacle of floats and performers.
Practical Information: Most events are free to attend. Public parking in Waikiki can be challenging, so consider parking at nearby lots and walking to the venues.
Tips: Explore the food booths to sample unique dishes from Japan, Korea, and other Pacific nations.
King Kamehameha Day Celebration
Date: June 11, 2025
Contact: (808) 586-0333
Website: hawaii.gov
Location: Downtown Honolulu, King Kamehameha Statue, 417 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
King Kamehameha Day is a state holiday in Hawaii that honors King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands. This celebration features a grand floral parade, traditional ceremonies, and cultural performances.
Highlights and Features: The parade showcases brightly decorated floats, traditional hula dancers, and pa‘u riders (women on horseback in traditional Hawaiian dress). The festivities also include lei draping of the King Kamehameha Statue and live music performances.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and the best viewing spots for the parade are along King Street. Nearby parking can be limited, so consider using public transportation or rideshare services.
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and bring sunscreen for the outdoor festivities.
Mango Jam Honolulu
Date: June 21-22, 2025
Contact: (808) 768-6622
Website: mangojamhonolulu.com
Location: Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds, 530 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
Mango Jam Honolulu celebrates Hawaii’s favorite tropical fruit with a weekend full of food, music, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights and Features: Enjoy mango-inspired food and drinks, live music performances by local artists, and a farmers’ market featuring fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Street parking and nearby garages are available.
Tips: Try the mango-themed desserts and arrive early to avoid long lines at food vendors.
July
Fourth of July Fireworks
Date: July 4, 2025
Contact: (808) 955-9517
Website: alamoanacenter.com
Location: Ala Moana Beach Park, 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks show at Ala Moana Beach Park. The event also features live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Highlights and Features: The fireworks display over the ocean is one of the largest in Hawaii. The park’s live music stage hosts performances by local bands.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but parking at the park fills up quickly. Public transportation or rideshare is recommended.
Tips: Arrive early to claim a good spot on the beach and bring a picnic blanket or chairs.
Prince Lot Hula Festival
Date: July 20-21, 2025
Contact: (808) 534-8880
Website: moanaluagardensfoundation.org
Location: Moanalua Gardens, 2850 Moanalua Rd, Honolulu, HI 96819
The Prince Lot Hula Festival is the largest non-competitive hula event in Hawaii, celebrating traditional dance and music in a serene garden setting.
Highlights and Features: Watch hula performances by halau (dance schools) from across Hawaii. The festival also features craft vendors and cultural demonstrations.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to support the event. Limited parking is available at Moanalua Gardens.
Tips: Bring a reusable water bottle and a hat for shade.
Ukulele Festival Hawaii
Date: July 28, 2025
Contact: (808) 732-3739
Website: ukulelefestivalhawaii.org
Location: Kapiolani Park Bandstand, 3840 Paki Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Ukulele Festival Hawaii is a beloved annual event that celebrates the ukulele with live music, workshops, and food vendors.
Highlights and Features: Performers include local musicians, international artists, and students from ukulele schools. Free ukulele lessons are offered throughout the day.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and parking is available near Kapiolani Park.
Tips: Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and stay hydrated.
August
Made in Hawaii Festival
Date: August 16-18, 2025
Contact: (808) 533-1292
Website: madeinhawaiifestival.com
Location: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
This festival showcases locally made products, including food, art, fashion, and crafts, celebrating Hawaii’s creative industries.
Highlights and Features: Sample gourmet foods, shop for handmade jewelry, and enjoy live entertainment by local musicians.
Practical Information: Tickets are $10, and parking is available at the convention center.
Tips: Bring a reusable shopping bag for purchases and come hungry to try free samples.
Duke’s OceanFest
Date: August 17-25, 2025
Contact: (808) 923-5397
Website: dukesoceanfest.com
Location: Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, HI 96815
Duke’s OceanFest is an annual celebration honoring the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii’s Olympic gold medalist and the “Father of Modern Surfing.” The event features a variety of ocean sports competitions and cultural activities.
Highlights and Features: The festival includes surfing contests, paddleboard races, beach volleyball tournaments, and a traditional Hawaiian lei draping ceremony at Duke’s statue. Visitors can also enjoy live music and cultural demonstrations along Waikiki Beach.
Practical Information: Most events are free for spectators, but some competitions may require registration fees for participants. Parking in Waikiki is limited, so plan to use public transportation or rideshare services.
Tips: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable during outdoor activities. Check the schedule online for specific event times and locations.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
Date: August 31 – September 1, 2025
Contact: (808) 676-5400
Website: okinawanfestival.com
Location: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Okinawan Festival is one of the largest cultural festivals in Hawaii, celebrating the rich traditions of Okinawa, Japan. The event features food, music, dance, and cultural exhibits that highlight the strong ties between Okinawa and Hawaii.
Highlights and Features: Visitors can enjoy traditional Okinawan performances, including Eisa drumming and Okinawan folk dance. The festival also offers delicious food like Okinawa soba, andagi (Okinawan donuts), and rafute (braised pork belly). Cultural exhibits and craft vendors round out the experience.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and food and merchandise are available for purchase. Parking is available at the convention center for a fee.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines at food booths. Don’t miss the cultural workshops to learn more about Okinawan traditions and history.
September
Aloha Festivals – Waikiki Hoolaulea
Date: September 13, 2025
Contact: (808) 923-2030
Website: alohafestivals.com
Location: Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Waikiki Hoolaulea is the largest Hawaiian block party, held as part of the month-long Aloha Festivals. This lively street festival celebrates Hawaiian culture with music, hula, crafts, and plenty of local food.
Highlights and Features: The event features multiple stages of live Hawaiian music, hula performances, and food vendors serving traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau, poke, and shave ice. Artisans display handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and the event runs from 6 PM to 9:30 PM. Parking in Waikiki is limited, so consider using public transportation or ridesharing services.
Tips: Arrive early to explore the vendors and secure a good spot for the performances. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring cash for food and crafts.
Aloha Festivals Floral Parade
Date: September 28, 2025
Contact: (808) 923-2030
Website: alohafestivals.com
Location: Ala Moana Park to Kapiolani Park, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Aloha Festivals culminate with the iconic Floral Parade, a vibrant procession that showcases Hawaii’s natural beauty and culture. Floats decorated with fresh flowers, marching bands, and pa‘u riders (women in Hawaiian equestrian attire) make this event a must-see.
Highlights and Features: The elaborate floral floats are the main attraction, along with traditional hula performances along the parade route. Visitors can also enjoy live music and cultural demonstrations in Kapiolani Park after the parade.
Practical Information: The parade starts at 9 AM and lasts approximately two hours. Admission is free, and public transportation is recommended due to road closures.
Tips: Bring a folding chair or blanket for seating and arrive early for the best views. Don’t forget sunscreen and water.
Okinawan Festival
Date: September 7-8, 2025
Contact: (808) 676-5400
Website: okinawanfestival.com
Location: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Okinawan Festival celebrates the culture and traditions of Okinawa, Japan, with food, music, dance, and crafts. This event is one of the largest ethnic festivals in Hawaii and attracts thousands of attendees each year.
Highlights and Features: Visitors can enjoy traditional performances like Eisa drumming, browse Okinawan crafts, and sample iconic dishes such as andagi (Okinawan donuts) and Okinawa soba.
Practical Information: Admission is $5 for adults, with children under 12 free. Parking is available at the convention center for a fee.
Tips: Try the andagi and participate in the cultural workshops to learn about Okinawan traditions.
October
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
Date: October 17-26, 2025
Contact: (808) 738-6245
Website: hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com
Location: Various venues across Honolulu, including Ko Olina and Waikiki
The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is a world-class culinary event that features renowned chefs, winemakers, and mixologists from around the world. The festival highlights Hawaii’s unique flavors and fresh ingredients.
Highlights and Features: Signature events include tastings, cooking demonstrations, and gala dinners. Sample dishes prepared by celebrity chefs and enjoy wine pairings with stunning oceanfront views.
Practical Information: Tickets start at $100 per event. Parking and shuttle services are available at select venues.
Tips: Purchase tickets early, as popular events sell out quickly. Dress in resort casual attire for evening events.
Honolulu Pride Parade and Festival
Date: October 19, 2025
Contact: (808) 369-2000
Website: hawaiilgbtlegacyfoundation.com
Location: Waikiki Beach and Kapiolani Park, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Honolulu Pride Parade and Festival is Hawaii’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration. The parade features vibrant floats, music, and performers, while the festival offers live entertainment, food vendors, and community booths.
Highlights and Features: The parade culminates at Kapiolani Park, where attendees can enjoy live performances and connect with local organizations.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and the parade begins at 11 AM. Plan to arrive early to find parking or use public transit.
Tips: Bring a reusable water bottle and sunscreen. Show your support by wearing rainbow colors!
Halloween on Kalakaua Avenue
Date: October 31, 2025
Contact: (808) 923-1094
Location: Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815
Halloween on Kalakaua Avenue transforms Waikiki into a festive and spooky celebration. Families, locals, and tourists gather to enjoy costume contests, live music, and themed activities.
Highlights and Features: The costume contest is the highlight of the evening, with prizes for the best-dressed participants. Food vendors and live DJs add to the lively atmosphere.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and events start at 6 PM. Parking is limited, so plan to walk or use public transportation.
Tips: Dress up and join the fun! Arrive early to participate in the costume contest.
November
Made in Hawaii Film Festival – Honolulu Edition
Date: November 8-10, 2025
Contact: (808) 555-1234
Location: Doris Duke Theatre, 900 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96814
This festival celebrates films made in Hawaii or by Hawaiian filmmakers. It showcases a variety of genres, from documentaries to narrative films.
Highlights and Features: The festival offers Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panel discussions, and special screenings of award-winning films.
Practical Information: Tickets start at $15 per screening, with festival passes available. Parking is available at the venue.
Tips: Check the schedule in advance to prioritize must-see films.
Thanksgiving Dinner Cruises
Date: November 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving Day)
Contact: (808) 983-STAR
Website: starofhonolulu.com
Location: Departing from Aloha Tower Marketplace, 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813
Celebrate Thanksgiving in style with a dinner cruise along the beautiful Waikiki coastline. These cruises offer a unique way to enjoy the holiday, combining a delicious Thanksgiving feast with breathtaking sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.
Highlights and Features: The dinner includes traditional Thanksgiving dishes with a Hawaiian twist, such as roasted turkey with pineapple glaze, mashed Okinawan sweet potatoes, and haupia (coconut pudding) pie. Guests are treated to live Hawaiian music and hula performances, along with spectacular views of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline.
Practical Information: Prices start at $125 per person, which includes dinner and entertainment. Reservations are required and can be made online or by phone. Parking is available at Aloha Tower Marketplace for a fee.
Tips: Arrive early to check in and secure a good seat on the deck for the best views. Dress in resort casual attire and bring a light jacket for the evening breeze.
Waikiki Holiday Parade
Date: November 29, 2025
Contact: (808) 926-1811
Website: waikikiholidayparade.com
Location: Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Waikiki Holiday Parade commemorates Pearl Harbor survivors and celebrates the start of the holiday season in Honolulu. This parade, held the Friday after Thanksgiving, features marching bands, decorated floats, and cultural performances.
Highlights and Features: The parade includes local and mainland high school marching bands, military units, and special appearances by Santa Claus. The event also honors veterans and serves as a touching reminder of Hawaii’s role in World War II history.
Practical Information: Admission is free, and the parade begins at 7 PM. Expect road closures along Kalakaua Avenue, so plan to arrive early or take public transportation.
Tips: Bring a folding chair or blanket for seating along the parade route. Stay after the parade to enjoy Waikiki’s festive nightlife.
December
Honolulu City Lights
Date: December 7, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Contact: (808) 768-6622
Website: honolulucitylights.org
Location: Honolulu Hale (City Hall), 530 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
Honolulu City Lights is an annual month-long celebration that transforms downtown Honolulu into a holiday wonderland. This family-friendly event kicks off with a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony and electric light parade.
Highlights and Features: The event features a 50-foot Christmas tree decorated with Hawaiian-themed ornaments, an electric light parade, live entertainment, and holiday displays inside and outside Honolulu Hale. Families can also enjoy a visit with Santa Claus and ride the holiday train.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but parking near Honolulu Hale is limited. Consider using public transportation or rideshare services. The tree-lighting ceremony begins at 6 PM on December 7.
Tips: Visit on a weekday evening to avoid weekend crowds. Bring your camera for photos of the beautiful light displays and unique Hawaiian-themed decorations.
Honolulu Marathon
Date: December 14, 2025
Contact: (808) 734-7200
Website: honolulumarathon.org
Location: Starts at Ala Moana Boulevard and finishes at Kapiolani Park, Honolulu, HI 96815
The Honolulu Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the world, attracting runners from around the globe. This iconic race takes participants through some of Honolulu’s most beautiful locations, including Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Kahala.
Highlights and Features: The event is open to runners and walkers of all abilities, with no time limit to finish the course. Participants are treated to scenic coastal views and plenty of crowd support along the route. Finishers receive a medal, T-shirt, and access to post-race festivities at Kapiolani Park.
Practical Information: Registration fees vary based on when you register, starting at $150. Spectators can cheer on runners from designated viewing areas along the course.
Tips: If you’re not running, watch the sunrise from the starting line for a magical experience. Runners should arrive early to secure parking and warm up.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Date: December 31, 2025
Contact: (808) 923-1094
Location: Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, HI 96815
Ring in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display over Waikiki Beach. This annual celebration attracts locals and visitors alike for a night of music, dancing, and stunning pyrotechnics.
Highlights and Features: The fireworks show begins at midnight, lighting up the sky over the Pacific Ocean. Many beachfront hotels and restaurants host special New Year’s Eve parties with live music, gourmet dinners, and champagne toasts.
Practical Information: The fireworks display is free to watch, but reservations are required for private parties at nearby venues. Parking in Waikiki will be limited, so plan to walk or use public transportation.
Tips: Arrive early to claim a good spot on the beach. Bring a blanket or beach chairs, and don’t forget a jacket for the cooler evening breeze.
Tickets and Booking
- Purchase Locations: Online through event websites, at the venue, or through local ticket vendors.
- Prices: Vary by event, with many free community events and paid premium experiences.
Getting There
- Public Transport: TheBus provides extensive routes; check schedules at www.thebus.org.
- Parking: Available at most major venues, though limited in busy areas like Waikiki.
- Accessibility: Many venues are accessible for people with disabilities; check event websites for specific details.
- Hotels: Options range from luxury resorts in Waikiki to budget-friendly accommodations downtown.
- Vacation Rentals: Available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo for more personalized stays.
Insider Tips
Best Times to Attend
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best viewing spots.
- Mid-Week Visits: Consider attending events on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- Respect Traditions: Be mindful of local customs, especially during cultural events.
- Dress Appropriately: Dress comfortably for outdoor events, and consider modest attire for cultural sites.
Additional Attractions
- Beaches: Spend time at iconic beaches like Waikiki and Hanauma Bay.
- Hiking: Explore trails like Diamond Head and Manoa Falls.
- Cultural Sites: Visit Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum for historical insights.
Safety and Comfort
Staying Safe
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially for outdoor events.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Be Aware: Keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas.
What to Bring
- Essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a camera.
- Extras: Folding chairs or blankets for comfortable seating at outdoor events.
Planning Your Visit
Honolulu’s rich calendar of events offers something for everyone, from cultural festivals and sports events to culinary delights and vibrant parades. These events provide an excellent opportunity to experience the unique spirit of Hawaii, making any visit to Honolulu truly memorable. Whether you’re planning a trip in the bustling summer or the festive winter season, there’s always something exciting happening in this beautiful island city.