Holiday Happenings 2025 on Oahu
PARADES & FESTIVITIES FOR YOUR HOLIDAY CHEER!
Click on the links below to learn more about individual Parades and Festivals taking place on Oahu in 2025.
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
Piney Needlesmith and the Road Less Traveled (Shows thru 12/7/25)
NOVEMBER 28, 2025
Royal Hawaiian Band Free Holiday Concert: Kalikimaka Hoomau – It’s Christmas Every Day
Kalihi Business Association 76th Annual Holiday Parade
Liliha-Palama Christmas Parade
NOVEMBER 29, 2025
Mele’s Kalikimaka Extravaganza
Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus Performance at Kawaiahao Church Tree-Lighting Concert
Honolulu City Lights Opening Night, Light Parade, Block Party
Honolulu City Lights & Honolulu Hale Christmas Trees & Wreaths Display (thru 12/31/25)
DECEMBER 4, 2025
‘Twas the Light Before Christmas on Ice (ongoing thru Jan 4, 2026)
Holiday Brass with Honolulu Brass Quintet & Friends
Santa Claus Story Time at Waikiki-Kapahulu Public Library
DECEMBER 5, 2025
Christmas Night Market presented by Calvary Chapel of Honolulu
Moolelo Christmas Spectacular (ongoing thru Dec22, 2025)
Kamehameha Schools: Kula Haʻahaʻa Christmas Concert 2025
Santa Claus Story Time at Aiea Public Library
DECEMBER 6, 2025
Oahu Civic Orchestra FREE Winter Concert
The Sounds of Aloha Chorus Christmas Show! “What the Devil Happened to Santa?”
Street Bikers United - Toys for Tots Caravan Honolulu
Santa Claus Story Time at Kailua Public Library
Kapolei City Lights Parade, Opening Night Festivities, and Block Party
Kapolei City Lights - Season of Stars (thru 1/4/26)
DECEMBER 7, 2025
Sacred Hearts Academy – The Nutcracker 2025
Manoa Community Christmas Parade
Santa Claus Story Time at Kaimuki Public & School Library
DECEMBER 9, 2025
North Shore Christmas Festival
Santa Claus Story Time at Waimanalo Public Library
DECEMBER 11, 2025
Kapahulu-Moiliili Christmas Parade
DECEMBER 12, 2025
Ballet Hawaii’s The Nutcracker 2025
Paula Fuga Home for the Holidays
DECEMBER 13, 2025
Aiea Community Association Christmas Parade
Christmas with the Makaha Sons
Waianae Coast Christmas Parade
Hawaii Kai Festival of Lights Boat Parade
Ballet Hawaii’s The Nutcracker 2025
Paula Fuga Home for the Holidays
DECEMBER 14, 2025
Ballet Hawaii’s The Nutcracker 2025
DECEMBER 16, 2025
Jake Shimabukuro’s Holiday in Hawaii
DECEMBER 17, 2025
Jake Shimabukuro’s Holiday in Hawaii
DECEMBER 18, 2025
Hapa Holiday Extravaganza feturing Natalie Ai Kamauu
Jake Shimabukuro’s Holiday in Hawaii
DECEMBER 19, 2025
Jake Shimabukuro’s Holiday in Hawaii
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
DECEMBER 20, 2025
Ewa Beach Lions Club Christmas Parade
Kalani Pe’a’s Hawaiian Christmas Show 2025 feat. Jordan Soon
Christmas in Hawaii with Kimie Miner & Friends
DECEMBER 21, 2025
DECEMBER 22, 2025
Starr of Christmas featuring Starr Kalahiki and Honolulu Brass Quintet
DECEMBER 24, 2025
A Charlie Brown Christmas with Mike Lewis & Friends
DECEMBER 25, 2025
A Charlie Brown Christmas with Mike Lewis & Friends
JANUARY 1, 2026 AT THE STROKE OF MIDNIGHT!
2026 Waikiki New Year’s Fireworks
More holiday events dates to come.
Honolulu City Lights and Honolulu Hale Christmas Trees & Wreaths Display
HONOLULU CITY LIGHTS IS PRESENTED BY THE CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FRIENDS OF HONOLULU CITY LIGHTS.
Free
The Honolulu Hale Christmas Trees on display are decorated by City Departments, bringing each department’s unique attributes to the display.
Moolelo Christmas Spectacular
WATCH A HEARTWARMING AND FUN CHRISTMAS MUSICAL
FEEL THE THRILL OF THE SNOW AND LIGHT SHOW
TAKE A FAMILY PHOTO WITH SANTA
WRITE A LETTER TO SANTA
ROAST S'MORES OVER COZY FIRE PITS
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
WATCH A HOLIDAY MOVIE UNDER THE STARS
GRIND HOLIDAY TREATS AND 'ONO PLATES FEATURING YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS
Kapolei City Lights - Season of Stars
The luminous decorations of Kapolei City Lights 2025 will be open to the public from the evening of Saturday, December 6, 2025 through Sunday, January 4, 2026. This year, the Kapolei City Lights decorations and festivities will be crafted with the theme a “Season of Stars”, a tribute to our islands’ ocean navigation traditions. Nā hōkū (the stars) have long guided Hawaiian wayfinders across the Pacific, lighting the path to new horizons. Just as the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s Hōkūleʻa (Star of Gladness) has guided our lāhui (community), our hōkū inspire us to gather, reflect, and share the joy of the season.
North Shore Christmas Festival
A festive celebration filled with Christmas music, decorations, “Reindeer” Pony Rides, Carnival Games and Local Food Vendors.
Live Music, Food, Games, Art Market, Christmas Tree Decorating Contest, Wreath Making Contest, “Reindeer Rides” (by reservation only-book online)
HOURS:
4 PM to 8 PM Tue-Thu / 4 PM to 9 PM Fri / 1 PM to 9:00 PM Sat & Sun
Closed Monday
Christmas on the Avenue
This year’s theme is Pupukahi I Holomua, which translates to “Unite to move forward as one.”
This theme speaks to the heart of our mission—to bring the community together to reconnect and celebrate the season in fellowship.
Hawaii Kai Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade
Hawaii Kai Marina shines with the Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade, a unique chance to see Hawaii-style holiday magic.
The Hawaii Kai Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade features styled, festive boats and lots of Christmas cheer!
Music, entertainment and a holiday wonderland on water!
2026 Chinatown Festival
A family-friendly festival in Honolulu's Historic Chinatown to welcome the 2026 Lunar New Year. The festivities include Food Vendors, Craft Vendors, Free Keiki Bouncy Houses, Rest Tent, Entertainment Stages, Bicycle Valet, and a Parade.
30th Annual Honolulu Festival 2026
The Honolulu Festival is Hawaii’s premier cultural event, promoting mutual understanding, economic cooperation and ethnic harmony between the people of Hawaii and the Pacific Rim region. Each year, the Festival attracts thousands of new and returning spectators who are looking for an experience unique to Hawaii. Through educational programs and activities sponsored by the Honolulu Festival Foundation, the Festival has been successful in showcasing the rich and vibrant blend of Asia, Pacific and Hawaiian cultures to the rest of the world. The three day extravaganza takes place every year in March from Friday through Sunday.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
10:00 - 18:00
Craft Fair / Ennichi Corner / Food Corner
10:00 - 18:00
10:00 - 18:00
10:00 - 18:00
10:00 - 18:00
11:00 -
Maui Mikoshi Unveiling Ceremony
11:00 - 18:00
30th Annual Honolulu Festival & Parade 2026
The Honolulu Festival is Hawaii’s premier cultural event, promoting mutual understanding, economic cooperation and ethnic harmony between the people of Hawaii and the Pacific Rim region. Each year, the Festival attracts thousands of new and returning spectators who are looking for an experience unique to Hawaii. Through educational programs and activities sponsored by the Honolulu Festival Foundation, the Festival has been successful in showcasing the rich and vibrant blend of Asia, Pacific and Hawaiian cultures to the rest of the world. The three day extravaganza takes place every year in March from Friday through Sunday.
SUNDAY, MARCH 15 SCHEDULE
08:00 -
SISTER EVENT Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN 2026
10:00 - 15:00
Craft Fair / Ennichi Corner / Food Corner
10:00 - 15:00
10:00 - 15:00
10:00 - 15:00
10:00 - 15:00
10:00 - 15:00
16:00 - 20:00
20:30 - 20:45
Aiea Community Association Christmas Parade
The parade features marching bands, school and community groups, classic cars, floats, and, of course, Santa. The Fun Fair features entertainment, children’s activities, information booths, crafts, and food booths. We plan to have the blood mobile available for blood donations and a flu/covid shot clinic. It’s a great opportunity for the community to relax and enjoy the holiday activities and share community spirit.
Manoa Community Christmas Parade
There will be 800 marchers, 15 vehicles, 2 floats and 4 bands. It starts at Noelani School and goes to Woodlawn Drive, Kolowalu Street, East Manoa Road, Lowrey Avenue, Manoa Road and ends up at Manoa District Park
Pearl City Christmas Parade
Holiday cheer will once again grace the neighboring community, bringing joy to its residents!
Sponsored by the Pearl City Shopping Center Merchants Association and partners with Pearl City High School Project Grad, who volunteer to coordinate the festive parade.
After the parade, check out the BLEIZN FX Cruz Night Car Show featuring by invitation only…dozens of Hawaii's top Hot Rods & Classic Cars with lots of door prizes! (no purchase required). Cruz Night runs from 5pm - 8pm next to Flagship Fastlube & Union 76 on the Makai side of Pearl City Shopping Center.
Kapolei City Lights Parade, Opening Night Festivities & Block Party 2025
Each year, Kapolei City Lights kicks-off with Opening Night Festivities featuring a wonderful Block Party and dazzling Parade centered around Kapolei Hale! For 2025, the opening night is set for Saturday, December 6!!
Block Party
Showcasing a wide variety of local vendors, live music, and excellent eateries, the Block Party is scheduled for Saturday, December 6 around Kapolei Hale. We’ve got so much planned for this party we are taking over several streets for the event, including: Ulu‘ōhi‘a, Ala Kahawai, ‘Alohikea, and Kama‘aha Ave.
Enjoy an amazing lineup of local entertainment and events on the stage near the mauka-end of Kapolei Hale. Emceed by Councilmember Augie Tulba, this venue will offer the following scheduled performances.
Kaneohe Christmas Parade
Photos by Castle High School Yearbook Staff
The 61st Kaneohe Christmas Parade, "Hometown Heroes"! Usher in the holiday season for all of Windward Oʻahu!
38th Mililani Ohana Holiday Parade
Bring your ohana and beach chairs to watch hundreds of Parade Marchers including Mililani High School Band, Hula Hãlau's, Community Groups, Schools, Local Businesses, Neighborhood Organizations, Beauty Queens, and Santa Claus!
Parade starts at Mililani High School Kauinana Stadium and will travel along Kipapa Drive past Millani Shopping Center, to Moenamanu St., then onto Kuahelani Ave., and Meheula Pkwy., ending at the Town Center of Mililani.
Wahiawa Town Santa Parade
The parade will start from Kaala Elementary at 6:30pm, going up California Avenue, and ending at North Cane Street.
Christmas Night Market 2025 by Calvary Chapel of Honolulu
The Christmas Night Market will be a family friendly night of music, crafts, and local foods! Find that one-of-a-kind gift for the holidays.
Kaimuki Christmas Parade
Get ready for the 2025 Kalihi Business Association and FACF Holiday Parade. This year marks the 76th Year of this great event. The parade kicks off the holiday season in Kalihi and is a highlight for many keiki, residents, businesses and organizations in the community.
For this year, we will follow the same parade route as 2024 to avoid the construction on Dillingham Boulevard. We will also be having the Kalihi-Kapālama Pā’ina at Kapālama Elementary school with entertainment, food, community booths, and games for the Keiki.
ROUTE: Start at Kalihi Union Church, continue along King Street pass Farrington High School, left at Houghtailing Street, School Street, ends at Kamehameha Shopping Center.
Honolulu City Lights Opening Night, Light Parade, Block Party
HONOLULU CITY LIGHTS IS PRESENTED BY THE CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FRIENDS OF HONOLULU CITY LIGHTS.
Free
Opening Ceremony:
Begins at 5:30 PM and the lights are scheduled to be turned on at approximately 6 PM
Public Workers' Electric Light Parade:
The parade travels on King Street, from River Street to Kawaiahao Street.
Step-off is at approximately 6 PM and the first unit arrives at Honolulu Hale approximately 6:30 PM
Hawaii Kai Holiday Parade
Coordinated by the Hawaii Kai Lions Club and sponsored by Koko Marina Center.
Parade ends at Koko Marina Center, followed by the Koko Marina. Center Christmas Carnival Celebration.
Bring the keiki, bring the ‘ohana! (activities subject to change)
Visit and take photos with Santa Claus and his Elf
Keiki Hula
Cookie Decorating
Popcorn Booth
Carnival Games
Donate a toy!
Bring a new unwrapped toy to enjoy the carnival games FOR FREE!
Waikiki Holiday Parade
The parade begins with warm-up and step-off from Fort DeRussy Park and ends at Queen Kapiolani Park. The torch-lit parade route travels approximately 1.5 miles along Waikiki’s main thoroughfare, Kalakaua Avenue, with festive scenery of Waikiki Beach as your backdrop. On your left, tall, twinkling hotels and restaurants are teeming with flowers, torches and spectators; to your right grand palms & white sand beach unfold to the open ocean. You won’t find a warmer welcome in any other destination!
Liliha/Palama Christmas Parade
Starts at United Church of Christ, to Judd St., to Liliha St., to N. King St., to end at Kohou St.
Kalihi Business Association 76th Annual Holiday Parade
Get ready for the 2025 Kalihi Business Association and FACF Holiday Parade. This year marks the 76th Year of this great event. The parade kicks off the holiday season in Kalihi and is a highlight for many keiki, residents, businesses and organizations in the community.
For this year, we will follow the same parade route as 2024 to avoid the construction on Dillingham Boulevard. We will also be having the Kalihi-Kapālama Pā’ina at Kapālama Elementary school with entertainment, food, community booths, and games for the Keiki.
ROUTE: Start at Kalihi Union Church, continue along King Street pass Farrington High School, left at Houghtailing Street, School Street, ends at Kamehameha Shopping Center.
Honolulu Pride Parade & Festival
Join the community for a sunset Parade down Kalākaua Avenue at 3pm and a night time Festival at Waikīkī Shell starting at 5pm. Enjoy the cool afternoon shade and the evening breeze as we celebrate the spirit of equality for all people of Hawai‘i.
The Festival will feature 4 hours of live national and local entertainers, 70+ craft and merchandise vendors, a resource fair, ‘ohana and kūpuna zones, onolicious food and beverages, and lots of MVPFAFF/LGBGTQIA+ aloha.
Chinatown808 presents the 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival & Parade
Photo: Courtesy of Chinatown808.com
Chinatown 808 presents the 2025 Honolulu Mid-Autumn Festival! Celebrate this traditional Chinese holiday that marks the end of a great autumn harvest and a reunion time for families. Come out with your friends and family for a weekend of fun with food, crafts, keiki activities, live entertainment, and more!
Waimanalo Country Farms 2025 Fall Harvest Festival
Come and enjoy the day at the farm! Take a breath of fresh air in the pumpkin patch, beautiful sunflower fields, and don’t forget to stop by the country market and grub stand for the famous fresh-squeezed lemonade, farm honey, handmade gifts, yummy cornbread and so much more!
Feel free to walk around on the designated paths as well as throughout the fields and other photo op areas to snap photos.
Aloha Festivals 77th Annual Floral Parade
A colorful procession of Hawaiian culture through Waikīkī
Intricate floats decorated with a rainbow of fresh flowers and men and women on horseback showcasing the traditional art of pāʻū riding. Participants from marching bands to hālau hula to civic leaders display the unique aloha spirit that unites Hawai‘i’s community.
Aloha Festivals 71th Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a
Get ready for a beachfront street festival like no other!
Kalākaua Avenue will be transformed with booths showcasing Hawai‘i cuisine, crafts and culture stretching as far as the eye can see. Taste the best of local flavors from around the island in one place, and peruse artisan-made crafts. Multiple stages with incredible entertainment will rock the evening featuring top local artists, award-winning hālau hula, and more.
49th Annual Honolulu Intertribal Powwow
Free admission. Everyone welcome!
Bring your own chairs & blankets.
9am – Native Hawaiian Blessing, music & performance, followed by Grand Entry at 10am.
Visit with Indigenous & Turtle Island craft vendors, gather resource information from educational & community-based organizations, participate in children’s crafts, enjoy local food vendors and
Navajo frybread prepared by our Navajo relatives, Masen Tsosie and Caroline Begay, throughout the day.
Invited Groups include the Lummi Nation Blackhawk Singers and the Bird Singers from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Host Drum – Blackfoot Drummers
Head Woman Dancer – Taunie Cullooyah, Kalispel Tribe
Head Man Dancer – Robert Thomas, Colville Confederated Tribe
Emcee – Brad Bearsheart
Arena Director – Eric Lonecheif
Okinawan Festival 2025 (more info to come)
Stay tuned for more details!
Cultural performances, activities, exhibits, marketplace, bon dance.
And FOOD! Freshly made ANDAGI, shave ice, Okinawa soba, Pig’s Feet soup, Champura and more.
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji (Friday & Saturday)
2 Nights: Friday and Saturday
Bon Dance, Taiko Performance, Food Booths, Activities
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Jodo Mission (Friday & saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday
Community members come together to experience Japanese culture and traditions including bon dance, local and ethnic foods, dress, activities and more.
21st Annual Korean Festival 2025
Share, Promote, and Raise Awareness of Korean Culture in the Community
The Korean Festival is an annual event run by the Hawaii Korean Chamber of Commerce, with the support of dozens of community organizations and businesses, and hundreds of volunteers. Proceeds from the Festival are used to fund service projects and ventures which benefit the Korean and larger community in Hawaii, including an annual scholarship fund for outstanding, civic-minded students entering or currently enrolled in college.
The Korean Festival presents a unique, authentic taste of Korean culture through food, dance, art, music, and entertainment. The program of festival events varies from year to year, but past Festivals have included performances such as taekwondo (Korean martial arts) demonstration, a coming-of-age traditional tea ceremony, and Korean fan and drum dances.
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji (Friday & Saturday)
2 Nights: Friday and Saturday
Bon Dance, Taiko Performance, Food Booths, Activities
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Jodo Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday
Community members come together to experience Japanese culture and traditions including bon dance, local and ethnic foods, dress, activities and more.