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)
Oʻahu
Oʻahu: public stargazing events around the island
Located in the central Pacific, the the island of Oʻahu offers stargazing opportunities with less light and air pollution compared to other metropolitan areas on the U.S. mainland. In addition, the Hawaiian Islands are the southernmost location in the United States. From Hawaiʻi Island (19.8968° N) to Kauaʻi (22.108543° N), the Hawiian night sky can offer different constellations and celestial objects, such as the Southern Cross (Crux), which is not visible in … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: public stargazing events around the island
Aloha Week and ʻOhana Festivals cultural events
“Aloha Week” was conceived in 1946 as a cultural revival of Hawaiian music, dance, and history, a re-imagined "makahiki"—the ancient Hawaiian New Year festival traditionally held in late-October or early November. The new 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 … [Read more...] about Aloha Week and ʻOhana Festivals cultural events
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
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 Stadium … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace
Oʻahu: How to enjoy live theatre on a budget
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. Listed below are Oʻahu theatres offering live productions and several ways to enjoy live theatre on a budget. How to save money on live theatre Volunteers are welcome at most theaters. A volunteer benefit often … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: How to enjoy live theatre on a budget
Oʻahu: recycle your Denim for a Chance to WIN at Windward Mall
From July 15-30, 2024, Windward Mall is collecting your denim to be donated to Goodwill Hawaii. Place your gently used, worn-out or outdated denim in the Denim Days donation box located at Cookies Clothing Company, Hawaii's Finest, I Mana Ka Oiwi, Jeans Warehouse, Torrid, Victoria's Secret PINK, or Town & Country Surf. Scan the QR code on the box or nearby sign to enter for a chance to win a custom creation from denim upcycling brand, American Butt Clothing! … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: recycle your Denim for a Chance to WIN at Windward Mall
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: Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC)
The Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) is the world’s largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Islanders. The South Pacific Commission (SPC), now The Pacific Community, launched this showcase of arts and culture in 1972 to halt the erosion of traditional practices through ongoing cultural exchange. FestPAC is hosted by different Pacific Island nations every four years. FestPAC is a highly anticipated event for both Pacific Islanders and visitors … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC)
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
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: Chuck E. Cheese Summer Fun Pass offers safe place for game play
Chuck E. Cheese Summer Fun Pass provides you with a safe and fun-filled activity for your child during summer. Chuck E. Cheese in Hawaiʻi is a great place for games, pizza, celebrations, or a fun family-night out. There are 3 Chuck E. Cheese locations around Oʻahu: Honolulu, Kapolei, Pearl City. The Summer Fun Pass is a family package for 2 months of endless fun. You get unlimited visits for your family, 40-250 games per visit (depends on tier), 20%-50% discount … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Chuck E. Cheese Summer Fun Pass offers safe place for game play
National Police Week Hawaii
Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America’s law enforcement community and occurs every May to honor the fallen officers whose names have recently been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial (nleomf.org). The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial is centered in the 400 block of E Street, NW, Washington, DC and is the nation’s … [Read more...] about National Police Week Hawaii
Oʻahu: 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 loko ʻia (fish ponds) and for harvesting wild shellfish. 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 … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: History of Pu‘uloa and visiting Pearl Harbor today
Oʻahu: U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show Aug 9-10, 2025
Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi (MCBH) is excited to open their gates to Oahu’s resident community and island visitors for the Kāneʻohe Bay (K-Bay) Air Show and MCBH Open House in August. Headlining the K-Bay air show is the U.S. Navy’s premier aerobatic flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels along with several other exciting aerobatic performers, as well as land-based displays and activities, including live music and food. Best of all, the event is free and open to … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show Aug 9-10, 2025
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. The next trade-in event is happening in stores in 2025. How does the target car seat trade-in program work? To participate in the trade-in and receive a coupon you must … [Read more...] about Target Stores annual child car seat trade-in event
Academy Awards Oscars best picture nominees
Each year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognizes excellence in the motion picture industry. Hundreds of millions of movie fans turn in to watch the glamorous ceremony as members of the academy are awarded an Oscar statue. About the Oscar Awards The Academy is a global organization limited to film artists working in the production of theatrically-released motion pictures. Membership is achieved through sponsorship and is reviewed every … [Read more...] about Academy Awards Oscars best picture nominees
Oʻahu: Food trucks & other cheap eats in Waikīkī
Here’s our list of food trucks, grab & go markets, and food courts throughout Waikīkī. They are great options when you are looking for an affordable meal or quick bite. All of them are located within Waikīkī, along a 1.5 mile stretch on Kalākaua and Kūhiō Avenues. These locations offer a variety of popular eateries that are enjoyed by tourists and locals. Waikīkī food trucks and food halls Peruse the list below or use our Google Map at the end of the … [Read more...] about Oʻahu: Food trucks & other cheap eats in Waikīkī
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
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
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
14 points of interest in Waikīkī are a fascinating self-guided walking tour
Among the high rises in the famous Waikīkī tourist mecca, there is much fascinating Hawaiian history to uncover about the once royal and rural area. Use the following list of tour stops, all located on Kalākaua Avenue for a self-guided tour. At each tour stop, you will be directed to statues, historic sites, and other points of interest that can enhance your knowledge of Hawai’i and the history of the area. The list is followed by a Google map of the tour stops … [Read more...] about 14 points of interest in Waikīkī are a fascinating self-guided walking tour
