“Aloha Week” was conceived in 1946 as a cultural revival of Hawaiian music, dance, and history—a re-imagined makahiki, the ancient Hawaiian festival held in late-October or early November. In the early years, Aloha Week included a parade and the Waikīkī Hoʻolauleʻa (celebration, aka block party) on Kalākaua Avenue. Dozens of volunteer-run events on neighboring islands were added over the years. In 1991, Aloha Week became "Aloha Festivals"—a statewide celebration of … [Read more...] about Aloha Festivals Oʻahu events and ʻOhana Festivals on neighbor islands
Oʻahu
Maui Invitational college basketball tournament Thanksgiving Week
The Maui Invitational is an annual NCAA basketball tournament that takes place Thanksgiving Week in Lahaina, Hawaiʻi. The event has long been considered the nation's preeminent early season college basketball tournament. Eight NCAA Division I men's basketball teams are invited to compete, playing three games in three days. ESPN networks offer live television coverage of all 12 Championship Round games. The Maui tourney continues to provide schools an opportunity … [Read more...] about Maui Invitational college basketball tournament Thanksgiving Week
2023 Waikīkī Block Festivals on Kalākaua Avenue feature local vendors all day long
The bustling neighborhood of Waikīkī is home to frequent parades and street festivals throughout the year, including the ʻOhana Block Party Festivals. For these street festivals, Kalākaua Avenue is lined with local food vendors selling everything from cane juice to snacks and Hawaiian plate lunches, plus artisans and craft makers offering unique handmade arts & crafts. You'll also enjoy local music and entertainment, including activities for keiki. Waikīkī's … [Read more...] about 2023 Waikīkī Block Festivals on Kalākaua Avenue feature local vendors all day long
Oʻahu: annual Waimea Valley Mai‘a ‘Ho‘olaule‘a (Banana Festival)
Most of us are familiar with local apple bananas and the ubiquitous Central American Chiquita. Few of us know about or have eaten a Hawaiian banana or enjoyed bananas in a savory dish. The Waimea Valley Banana Festival is a fun exploration of Hawaiian banana: its botanical and culinary history, as well as how to successfully grow and use bananas. Banana varieties brought as canoe plants to Hawaiʻi by Polynesian voyagers include many varieties that have … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: annual Waimea Valley Mai‘a ‘Ho‘olaule‘a (Banana Festival)
Oʻahu: Best shopping malls for holiday sales
Holiday weekends throughout the year are especially popular times for retailers to entice you to shop and save. You can find sales and discounts on a variety of seasonal goods. Stores, shopping malls, and major brands may also host special events and giveaways. Listed below is a list of the best holidays for shopping sales and discounts. Then, scroll down for a list of some of the biggest and best shopping malls throughout Hawaiʻi. Best holidays for shopping at … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Best shopping malls for holiday sales
Hawaiʻi International Film Festival (HIFF)
Hawaiʻi International Film Festival (HIFF) is the premiere showcase for established and emerging filmmakers in contemporary Asian, Pacific, and North American cinema. HIFF is the focus for emerging works from the Pacific Rim and an incubator for Native Hawaiian films and indigenous Pacific filmmakers in any genre, including feature films, documentaries, short films, series, and Hawai'i-themed films. HIFF serves as an entertaining event for the casual viewer and … [Read more...] about Hawaiʻi International Film Festival (HIFF)
Where to enjoy live theatre on Oʻahu
There is a wide range of live theatre productions offered at theatres across Oʻahu. You can enjoy classic plays, Broadway musicals, and experimental works. In addition, you can find original plays by local playwrights, featuring stories unique to Hawai’i. Like live theatres everywhere, the theatre season in Hawai’i runs roughly September-June. Season tickets and flex passes are typically offered, as well as tickets to individual performances. To save money … [Read more...] about Where to enjoy live theatre on Oʻahu
All about stinging box jellyfish on Oʻahu beaches
The presence of stinging box jellyfish on Oʻahu beaches has been increasing since 1988. Below you can read about this variety of jellyfish found in Hawaiian waters, how to avoid them, and what to do if you get stung—don't worry, you might cry but won't die. Box jellyfish are found in shallow tropical sea waters, especially in quiet areas such as bays. They have a square-shaped body or bell—hence the common name. Extending from the bell are four tentacles, which … [Read more...] about All about stinging box jellyfish on Oʻahu beaches
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 … [Read more...] about Where to watch fireworks on Fourth of July in Hawaiʻi
Ka Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea (Restoration Day) National Holiday of the Hawaiian kingdom
In 1843, after temporary occupation of the government by rogue British agents, led by Lord George Paulet, Queen Victoria dispatched Admiral Richard Thomas of the British Royal Navy to take down the Union Jack and return the Hawaiian flag to its rightful spot. Sovereignty was restored to the Hawaiian Kingdom and reigning (King Kamehameha III) established the holiday with a celebration. Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea (LHE) was the first National Holiday of the Hawaiian kingdom … [Read more...] about Ka Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea (Restoration Day) National Holiday of the Hawaiian kingdom
Oʻahu: HBL Honolulu Century Ride
As O‘ahu’s oldest and largest cycling organization, Hawaii Bicycling League (HBL) advocates for positive changes that will help make Hawaiʻi a cycling paradise and encourage more people to ride bicycles. Whether you are an experienced rider, new to biking, or need more information about safe cycling on Oʻahu, HBL is a great resource for information about bike laws, bike registration, and safe riding. About HBL HBL offers riding and safety workshops for every skill … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: HBL Honolulu Century Ride
Oʻahu: All about visiting the Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is the wildest place in Waikīkī. Situated in the shadow of Diamond Head crater at the corner of Kapahulu and Kalākaua Avenues, the zoo was stablished in 1877. In fact, it is the only zoo in the United States that originated in a King’s grant of royal lands to his people. History of the Honolulu Zoo In 1876, King David Kalākaua, Monarch of Hawai‘i, made lands of the Leahi Crown Holdings available to the people of Hawai‘i. One a year later, King … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: All about visiting the Honolulu Zoo
Oʻahu: Wet’n’Wild Hawaii Water Park in Kapolei
Opened in May 1999, Wet’n’Wild Hawaii is one of Oahu’s most popular family attractions with many options for adults, teens, kids and families of all ages. Located in Kapolei on 29-acres lush tropical acres set against natural cliffs the water park boasts more than 25 attractions offered on a rotating schedule. There are "chill" attractions for keiki and adults who want to simply relax on the water, slides and wave pool for a little more action, and pay-to-play … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Wet’n’Wild Hawaii Water Park in Kapolei
Oahu: Help Sew 38,000 Lei for Memorial Day
As unique and diverse as our communities are in Hawaiʻi, so are some of our traditions on Memorial Day. One of the more distinct traditions is the placing of lei upon every gravesite within Punchbowl for Memorial Day. Every year the members of the community work together to make some 38,000 lei to fulfill this ambitious goal. Those efforts include numerous volunteer opportunities: to help make ti leaf and fresh flower lei, to donate fresh flower lei and anthurium … [Read more...] about Oahu: Help Sew 38,000 Lei for Memorial Day
Make Music Day Hawai’i
Make Music Day MMD is a worldwide celebration of music held every year on June 21 — the summer solstice and longest day of the year. The daylong musical free-for-all celebrates music in all its forms. Rather than a traditional music festival of professional bands, Make Music Day promotes the natural music maker in all of us—regardless of age, ethnicity, or skill level (especially skill level!). Started in France in 1982 as the “Fête de la Musique” (festival … [Read more...] about Make Music Day Hawai’i
Oʻahu: Pūowaina aka “Punchbowl” (National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific)
Called Pūowaina in Hawaiian, the volcano erupted some 75,000 to 100,000 years ago. Pūowaina (which can be translated as “Hill of Sacrifice”) has deep religious significance for the Hawaiian people. Long before Europeans arrived, it was a place where people who had committed certain crimes or “kapu” were put to death. The lava formed an oval, bowl-shaped crater, alluding to the English name, "punchbowl". Today, the site is commonly referred to as … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Pūowaina aka “Punchbowl” (National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific)
History of Pu‘uloa and visiting Pearl Harbor today
When someone says "Pearl Harbor", it can refer to many different things. Historically, it was a large freshwater lagoon known to ancient Hawaiians as Ke-awa-lauo-Pu‘uloa or simply Pu‘uloa. It was a key site for harvesting shellfish and loko ʻia (fish ponds). Today, Pearl Harbor is surrounded by suburban neighborhoods. Along her shores, there is also a National Memorial Park and an active U.S. military base. When people visit Pearl Harbor today, it is often to … [Read more...] about History of Pu‘uloa and visiting Pearl Harbor today
Oʻahu: 50th State Fair at Aloha Stadium
From its founding in the Territory of Hawaii in 1903 to today, the family-owned kama'āina E. K. Fernandez Shows has brought entertainment experiences to Hawaiʻi for over a century. Families, sports teams, churches, schools, and other businesses and organizations can enjoy carnival rides, play games and win prizes, and enjoy tasty fair treats or a delicious plate on the midway. The Fernandez company is recognized nationally and internationally for its long history … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: 50th State Fair at Aloha Stadium
Free comic book days in the Hawaiian Islands
Free Comic Book Days take place at participating comic book specialty shops across the country. On this day, you can get a free comic book from well-known publishers like DC Comics and Marvel Comics. Stories give away comic books--absolutely free--to anyone who comes into their shops. But don't expect to pick up a free comic book at the grocery store or drug store. Free Comic Book Day celebrates independent specialty shops selling comic books and related … [Read more...] about Free comic book days in the Hawaiian Islands
Oʻahu: Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace
The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is Hawaii's largest outdoor market featuring hundreds of vendors, crafters, and artists from all over the world. You can find discounts on a wide selection of high-quality products from clothing, accessories, and fine jewelry to vintage antiques, Hawaiian souvenirs, and pre-packaged ethnic foods. Beautifully handcrafted products and exclusive art pieces are made and sold by the artists themselves. About Aloha Stadium Aloha … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace
Where to get Easter bunny photos
The Easter Bunny's in town! Hop in to have a photo taken. Listed below are places to get a professional photo as well as any BYOC (bring your own camera) and free appearances with the EB. Maui Easter Bunny Photos Kahului. Apr 1, 2023 - Apr 8, 2023. Hours: Monday-Thursday 10a-8p, Friday-Saturday 10a-9p, Sunday 10a-5p. Hop into spring and celebrate Easter with a fun and festive photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny at Queen Ka'ahumanu Shopping Center. (No … [Read more...] about Where to get Easter bunny photos
Target Stores annual child car seat trade-in event
Target Stores annual child car seat trade-in event every April allows you to trade in an old car seat and receive a 20%-off coupon toward a new car seat, stroller, or other select baby gear. You must be a member of the Target Circle™ loyalty rewards program, which is free and easy to join online. How does the target car seat trade-in program work? To participate in the trade-in and receive a coupon you must be enrolled in the Target Circle™ Rewards program. … [Read more...] about Target Stores annual child car seat trade-in event
Oʻahu: FREE Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) in downtown Honolulu
Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) showcases contemporary works by artists who have a connection to Hawaiʻi. View some of the best contemporary art from across the state of Hawaiʻi in HiSAM exhibits. Exhibitions are curated from the Art in Public Places Collection and student exhibitions. HiSAM has four galleries, a Sculpture Garden, classroom, activity and lecture room, and a front lawn for both museum and private events. Located adjacent to the State … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: FREE Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) in downtown Honolulu
Oʻahu: Aloha Stadium – Hawaii’s largest outdoor arena
Aloha Stadium is Hawaii’s largest outdoor arena, replacing the Honolulu Stadium (hawaii.gov) (1926-1975). Aloha Stadium has become a Gathering Place where the spirit of achievement is nourished by the thrill of competition. The special venue is a place where everyone can share their cultural diversity with pride and a feeling of Aloha. Events at the stadium include sporting events as well as concerts, carnivals, markets, festivals, auto shows, and other seasonal … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Aloha Stadium – Hawaii’s largest outdoor arena
Waikīkī SPAM JAM street food festival
Other places in the world celebrate iconic local food, such as garlic, onions, pickles, oysters, mussels, lutefisk, and more. The annual Waikīkī SPAM JAM street festival is Hawaiʻi's answer to an iconic food festival. Introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods, more SPAM® is consumed per person in Hawaiʻi than in any other state in the U.S. Almost seven million cans of SPAM are eaten every year in Hawaii. What is SPAM? SPAM is a shelf-stable canned meat product. The … [Read more...] about Waikīkī SPAM JAM street food festival
