Where to watch fireworks on Fourth of July in Hawaiʻi

Listed below are Fourth of July fireworks shows celebrated throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Our list includes the large annual public fireworks displays on Hawai’i Island, Kaua’i, Maui, and O’ahu. We also provide tips for photographing fireworks, which tend to fill the Hawaiian skyline for Independence Day, as well as for New Year’s celebrations. If you plan to purchase and set off fireworks, we provide links to the state laws restricting fireworks.

State of Hawaii fireworks laws

Hawai’i state laws restrict the purchase and use of fireworks to specific days and times during the year, including New Year’s Day (January 1), Chinese/Lunar New Year (variable date each year), and Independence Day (July 4). If you want to set off fireworks outside of these times, you must get the required license and/or permit.

In addition, there are restrictions on where you can light off fireworks. Listed below are links to some of the laws important to most people who want to set off fireworks, for example at a home party:

• For basic laws restricting purchase and use, see: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol03_Ch0121-0200D/HRS0132D/HRS_0132D-0003.htm and https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol03_Ch0121-0200D/HRS0132D/HRS_0132D-0005.htm
• For liability issues (especially if you are a homeowner, renter, parent or guardian), see: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol03_Ch0121-0200D/HRS0132D/HRS_0132D-0013.htm and https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol03_Ch0121-0200D/HRS0132D/HRS_0132D-0014_0005.htm
• For more details and the complete list of laws governing fireworks, visit Hawaii HRS 132D.
• For information from Honolulu Fire Department: Firecrackers | Honolulu Fire Department

How to take (great) photos of fireworks

To take great photos of fireworks, turn off your flash and set your camera to manual mode. With your camera in manual mode, set the ISO (“film speed” or light sensitivity), F-stop (aperture), and shutter speed to the following settings:

• ISO 100
• F-stop f/8 or f/11
• Shutter speed 1/2 second

If the photos are too dark at these settings, try gradually increasing the shutter speed (from 2 to 10 seconds) while keeping the ISO and F-stop the same. A camera tripod and remote shutter release are recommended, especially if you want to try long shutter speeds.

Other camera settings to try:

• Most professional photographers recommend sticking with ISO 100. However, the F-stop can range from f/5.6 to f/16, with more than one photographer stating f/8 is their favorite.
• Also, shutter speed can be up to 30 seconds, or longer, especially if you want to capture the entire “trail” of a fireworks display. For longer shutter speeds, a tripod and remote shutter will give the best results.

However, rather than fiddling with shutter speed, another option is to use B mode or Bulb mode, which allows you to press and hold the shutter button when the firework launches and keep the shutter open until the display eclipses, and then release the button. In other words, rather than setting a particular shutter speed such as 2 or 10 or 30 seconds, you manually work the shutter for each shot, and keep it open as long as needed. Of course, you must use both a tripod and remote shutter release for this operation.

Plan to arrive at your planned photography site well before sunset to check your camera settings and take a few photos. Find a level spot and review the framing of your images–your line of site to where the fireworks will be. When you look through the viewfinder, pay attention to what’s in the background. Decide whether horizontal or vertical photos produce the best composition based on your vantage point. If you are far away or have a high vantage point, a horizontal image that takes in the surrounding landscape is usually the better shot. If you are close to the action, then vertical shots of the fireworks from launch to high point in the sky is typically a better shot.

For more fireworks photography tips, review this National Geographic photo gallery for photographing fireworks.

Hawaiʻi Island fireworks 2023

Waikoloa celebration 2023

The daytime 4th of July family celebration at Queens’ Marketplace from 2-6PM will feature live music with local bands, keiki carnival games, face painting, popcorn & cotton candy, and a photobooth. More info: Queens’ Marketplace Hawaii Resort Calendar at Waikoloa Beach Resort (queensmarketplace.com)

Parker Ranch July 4th Rodeo

In 2023, Parker Ranch hosts the 59th Annual July 4th Rodeo and Horse Races. Paniolo will compete in various events, including Horse Races, Ranch Mugging, Team Roping, Poʻo Wai U (cow roping technique–see it on the YouTube video below). The rodeo celebrates community and Waimea’s unique ranching culture.  The long-standing tradition promotes camaraderie and friendly competition among the Hawaiʻi Island ranches.  It is a great opportunity to witness the skills that have made the Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy) famous throughout the world. Also enjoy a variety of crafts and food from local vendors, plus keiki activities including a petting zoo. 

• When: Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Gates open at 7AM. The rodeo begins at 9AM with a grand entry and continues non-stop until 1:00 pm. Seating is first come first serve.
• Where: at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea. 
• Tickets at the gate $15. Kids 12 and under are free.
• Discount tickets: in-person $10 at Kamuela Hardwoods, Paniolo Preservation Society or Waimea Butcher Shop, or buy online for $12 plus fees: Hawaii Ranching – Parker Ranch.

Locally raised Parker Ranch beef is now available at KTA Superstores, the four Commissary locations, Tamura’s Super Market, Waimea Butcher Shop, and other retailers throughout Hawaiʻi. Parker Beef is no longer be available at Safeway stores.

More info: 59th Annual July 4th Rodeo and Horse Races | Parker Ranch

 

Hilo fireworks 2023

The “Hot Rides Expo” car show will be held at the Hilo (mauka) soccer fields from 10AM-3PM. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and keiki activities. The annual “Hilo Bay Blast” fireworks show begins at 8:00 p.m from a barge moored in Hilo Bay. The Hawaii County Band will play live music to accompany the fireworks. The fireworks display will be synchronized to music KWXX 94.7FM. More info: Hawaii, Big Island, July 4th Fireworks & Celebrations 2023 – Go Visit Hawaii

Kailua-Kona fireworks 2023

Kailua-Kona Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza is the biggest 4th of July celebration on Hawaiʻi island. The parade begins at 6 pm with vibrant floats, musical acts, and color guards marching along Aliʻi Drive. It is followed by dazzling fireworks over Kailua Bay at 8 pm. More info: Kailua-Kona Community Parade Association (paradesinkona.com)

Kaua’i fireworks

Freedom Fest at Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) Saturday, July 1, 2023 beginning at 4PM. America’s western most Freedom Fest. Usually limited to PMRF personnel and their authorized guests, the 2023 event is free and open to the public with free live entertainment headlined by Common Kings. Ono Food and Drinks available and keiki activities (cash only). Free parking available on base; vehicles will be subject to search. Kokole Gate will close if it reaches maximum capacity or no later than 8:15 p.m. Be sure to read the list of permitted and not permitted items. More info: America’s Most West Freedom Fest 2023 – sponsored by Castle & Cooke (greatlifehawaii.com)

Kaua`i Hospice 4th of July Concert in the Sky on July 4, 2023 from 3:30-9PM at Vidinha Stadium Soccer Fields (Hoolako St, Lihue, HI 96766). Live music, crafts, a kid zone, ono grinds, and Kauai’s largest fireworks show choreographed to music. A fundraising event for Kauai Hospice: Tickets at the gate: $15/adult, $7/child. Discount pre-sale tickets $10/adult, $5/child over age of 5. More info: Kaua`i Hospice 4th of July Concert in the Sky Tickets, Tue, Jul 4, 2023 at 3:30 PM | Eventbrite

Maui fireworks 2023

Maui’s largest public celebration takes place in Lahaina at Campbell Park at 8pm. Residents and visitors can enjoy strolling historic Lahaina, a classic car show along the 700 Block of Front Street, and live music beginning at 5PM in Campbell Park. Spectators can enjoy the fireworks from land throughout Lahaina Town or from charter boats in Lahaina Harbor. To ensure the continuation of this beloved tradition, please support the event with a donation online at www.visitlahaina.com. More info: 4th of July in Lahaina | LahainaTown Action Committee (visitlahaina.com)

O’ahu fireworks 2023

For military base fireworks, scroll down to the next section.

Turtle Bay fireworks 

Turtle Bay Resort celebrates its annual OHANA DAY Ohana Day, July 1-2, 2023, headlined by Hawaii’s own American Idol Season 21 winner IAM TONGI and reggae sensation SPAWNBREEZIE. July 2 ends with Fourth of July firework spectacle. Food trucks, vendor booths and drinks will be available. Family friendly event. 21+ to drink alcohol. Children 5 & under are FREE. Doors open at 3:00pm. Parking opens at 2:00pm. Tickets: GA Admission All Ages $50 Day of Show, admits one for BOTH NIGHTS. Discount advance purchase: $39. More info: Ohana Day | Turtle Bay Resort

Haleiwa 4th of July Fireworks Festival 2023

Haleiwa July 4th Festival, Fireworks and Vintage Car Show featuring: Food Vendors, Bounce Houses and Live Entertainment.  Time:  Noon to 8:30 (Fireworks show at 8pm). Vintage Car Show featuring classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Plus vendors selling food, jewelry, retail, and crafts. Haleiwa Beach Park, 62-449 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI  96712. More info: Oahu North Shore July 4th Festival and Fireworks Show (haleiwajuly4thfestival.com)

Kailua fireworks 2023

Kailua on the Windward (eastern) coast of O’ahu celebrates Independence Day with a fireworks show from a barge in Kailua Bay beginning at 8 pm and can be best seen at Kailua Beach Park. There are no reserved school parking lots this year, please park only in legal, designated parking spots. Alexander & Baldwin will sponsor shuttles between Longs Parking lot bus stop and The Beach Center between 4:30 PM and 10:30 PM. More info: Kailua Fireworks

Polynesian Cultural Center fireworks

Polynesian Cultural Center hosts its annual July 4th event from 4pm to 9pm at the Hukilau Marketplace in Lāʻie. Live entertainment. FREE family event with free live entertainment, inflatables, balloon twisting, and face painting. There will also be carnival games and 20+ food vendors. Entertianment and activities start at 4pm. Fireworks start at 9pm. More info: Hukilau Marketplace website and Hukilau Marketplace | Facebook

Ala Moana Center July 4th events

No fireworks in 2023. Enjoy two days of live entertainment during Ala Moana Center’s 4th of July Concert Series on July 3rd and 4th on Centerstage 11:30am-6pm. Enter Ala Moana Center’s 4th of July Celebration Sweepstakes on Instagram, July 1 to July 4, 2023

Ala Moana Center’s 4th of July Celebration Sweepstakes on Instagram, July 1 to July 4, 2023 with a patriotic photo in front of the “LIBERTY!” Selfie Wall on Level 3, Center Court, and then post and share using #alamoanacenter and tag @alamoanacenter to enter sweepstakes for one chance to win. More info: 4th of July (alamoanacenter.com)

Schofield fireworks July 1, 2023 – open to the public

The 1st of July Independence Day Celebration is 12 am – 9 pm. Join USAG Hawaii Family and MWR to celebrate Independence Day with a parachute demonstration by the USA Army Golden Knights, a Patriotic Salute, The 25th ID Band w/ the 100th Army Band from Fort Knox, performances by Elle King, Plain White T’s and a grand finale laser and fireworks show presented by USAA. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Come out early to enjoy a variety of activities* including inflatable bounce houses, games, costume characters and more. *Some activities have a fee to participate. Admission is free and open to the public. All non-DoD attendees will be required to enter through Foote Gate. Visitors who do not possess a military ID must enter Schofield through Foote Gate. Traffic control personnel will direct visitors to park on Watts Field, and a shuttle will take them to the event entrance. More info: Calendar :: Hawaii :: US Army MWR and View Event :: Independence Day Celebration :: Hawaii :: US Army MWR

The fireworks might also be enjoyed from other vantage points in central O’ahu (just a guess):

• Mililani Shopping Center (some eateries open until 7-8PM, Foodland open until 9PM)
• Town Center of Mililani (closes at 8PM, but Longs, Times, and Walmart open until later)
• Mililani Marketplace (a couple of eateries open until 8-9PM, Safeway open until late)
• Patsy Mink Regional Park, 94-1024 Waipahu Street, Waipahu, HI 96797 (note: Honolulu parks close at 10 PM)

Other Oʻahu military base fireworks 2023

For those without access to the following military bases (which is most of us), we’ve suggested vantage points for the public to see fireworks displays on Oʻahu military bases—but it’s just a guess (let us know if you go). We included public parks that are listed as open until 10PM, as well as shopping centers if there are stores (usually eateries and grocers) open until fireworks start. You can certainly try to hang out in the parking lot but purchasing SOMETHING from a merchant would be the mālama ‘ohana (care for others) thing to do.

Pearl Harbor Fireworks 2023

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) in Honolulu hosts a 15-minute pyrotechnic display illuminating the harbor beginning at 9:00 PM. DOD card holders only. More info: 4thofJuly (greatlifehawaii.com)

There is no public access to the base. However, the fireworks over Pearl Harbor might be enjoyed from the following Honolulu parks and other vantage points in the Honolulu area (just a guess).

• Patsy Mink Regional Park, 94-1024 Waipahu Street, Waipahu, HI 96797 (note: park closes at 10 PM)
• Oneʻula Beach Park aka Hau Bush, 91-101 Papipi Road, Ewa Beach, HI 96706 (note: park closes at 10 PM)
• Pearl City Shops, 1029 Makolu Street, Pearl City, HI 96782 (some eateries open until 10PM)
• Waimalu Plaza Shopping Center, 98-1277 Kaahumanu St, Aiea, HI 96701 (eateries open 8-10PM, Safeway 24 hours)

MCBH fireworks – TBA 2023

As of June 29, 2023 MCBH has no fireworks show on their calendar. Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH). More info: Calendar of Events (usmc-mccs.org)

 

Calendar of events on July 4th

Listed below are all events on our calendar for July 4, 2023.

Tuesday, July 4, 2023