Spending the holidays in Hawaii is a unique experience. Everybody else across the country are bundled up in their warmest clothes and drinking hot chocolate in front of the fireplace. But if you’re coming to Hawaii, bring a swimsuit and get ready for a different kind of holiday celebration. Check out the following Honolulu holiday events coming up this season.
Honolulu City Lights
December 2nd, begins at 6:00pm
Let’s start with the Honolulu City Lights. It begins on December 2nd this year in downtown Honolulu and lasts the entire month. There is a huge Christmas Tree at Honolulu Hale towering about 50 feet tall and is lit up for all to enjoy at 6:30pm. The Electric Light Parade arrives at the same time along with Santa and his reindeer. Holiday music fills the air and puts you into that Christmas spirit. Lots of street vendors are around featuring arts and crafts and plenty of good food to fill your stomachs. Take a walk around and check out the multitude of Christmas Trees fully decorated by each of the county and city departments. If you can’t catch the beginning ceremonies, don’t worry. You can visit the downtown area any night of the week from now until Christmas Eve and take in the magnificent Honolulu City Lights.
Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade
December 7th, begins at 6:00pm
December 7th is considered Pearl Harbor Day. This is the anniversary day of the attack by the Japanese. Each year we celebrate and honor those who have fallen during the attack. A memorial parade comes down the main road on Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki. A number of floats will be featured including Pacific Aviation, marine helicopters, and several marching bands. The parade ends at the Shell located in Kapiolani Park, where a final concert will be given.
Santa Arrives by Canoe
December 9th, at 9:00am
Christmas will not be complete without Santa’s arrival. But there’s no snow to land his sleigh. So when coming to the islands, Santa takes a canoe. Sponsored by the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, you’ll be able to greet Santa as he sets foot onto Waikiki Beach on the morning of December 9th.
Christmas Day
December 25th
Holiday music and Christmas cheer can be found anywhere you go around the islands. The normal traditions celebrated elsewhere are also right here in Hawaii. People enjoy exchanging gifts and feasting on large meals with friends and family. But afterward, everyone heads to the beach for surfing and swimming. You often hear ukuleles being played and see hula dancers performing for the crowds.
Come join us in Hawaii if you’re looking for a different kind of holiday experience. But plan early. It can often get busy as many others are planning to do the same.
Image By: Honolulu Magazine
