Honolulu Annual Events
Waikiki is not only a tropical paradise, but also a cultural hub that comes alive with a variety of annual events throughout the year. From cultural festivals to celebrations of local cuisine, Honolulu and Waikiki offer a myriad of experiences throughout the year. Here are the top annual events that will add an extra layer of excitement to your vacation in Waikiki.
Honolulu Festival
March
The Honolulu Festival celebrates the vast cultural diversity of the Pacific Rim. This three-day festival showcases traditional music, dance, and crafts from Hawaii, Asia, and the Pacific. The Grand Parade along Kalakaua Avenue is a highlight, featuring vibrant floats and dazzling performances. Food festivals and interactive exhibits take place throughout the celebration, with plenty of opportunities to embrace the Aloha spirit and immerse yourself in the cultures of the Pacific.
Hawaii International Film Festival
April
For cinema enthusiasts, the Hawaii International Film Festival is a must-attend event. Held at local venues like the historic Hawaii Theatre, this festival showcases a diverse array of international films, documentaries, and short films, often with a focus on the experience of Asian and Hawaiian communities. Grab your popcorn and immerse yourself in cinematic excellence, featuring appearances by renowned filmmakers and actors, as well as Q&A sessions or red carpet events.
Spam Jam Festival
April-May
This two-week celebration of Spam and its impact on Hawaii’s cuisine is a fascinating glimpse into the culinary past of the islands. Dozens of restaurants offer Spam-focused dishes, with local retailers and artisans selling Spam-inspired merchandise. The event culminates in a block party with live music on multiple stages and proceeds are donated to local food banks.
King Kamehameha Day
June
On June 11th, the island honors King Kamehameha I, the legendary monarch who united the Hawaiian Islands. The celebration kicks off with a floral parade through Waikiki, featuring traditional Hawaiian pa’u riders and colorful floats. Attendees can also witness the draping of leis on the iconic King Kamehameha statue in downtown Honolulu, and attend a festival in Queen Kapiʻolani Park. Check out the events schedule at Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki, where there are lei-making and cultural workshops in celebration of this day.
Pan-Pacific Festival
June
Celebrating the unity of Pacific nations, the Pan-Pacific Festival is a weekend-long event filled with music, dance, and a spectacular parade. The streets of Waikiki come alive with vibrant performances by groups from around the Pacific Rim and street vendors offer delicious food and unique crafts. Pack a comfortable pair of shoes and soak up the lively atmosphere of these street festivities all weekend.
Duke Kahanamoku Ocean Festival
August
This week-long festival is held in late August, honoring the life and athletic accomplishments of Duke Kahanamoku, who is known as the father of modern surfing. The free event is open to the public, and it features a variety of ocean sports including surfing, paddle board racing, beach volleyball and more. This festival celebrates the legacy of the legendary “Ambassador of Aloha”, whose contributions to ocean sports continue to have an impact on the world today.
Prince Lot Hula Festival
July
The Prince Lot Hula Festival is a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture, specifically focusing on hula dance. This form of dance holds a special place in Hawaiian history, serving as a means of storytelling, expressing emotions, and preserving the legends and myths of the islands. The free festival is held on the grounds of the Moanalua Gardens and includes dance performances, interactive workshops and hands-on demonstrations that invite attendees to immersively learn about the rich cultural heritage of hula.
Aloha Festivals
September
Spanning the entire month of September, the Aloha Festivals celebrate Hawaiian culture through a series of events, including concerts, parades, and the highly anticipated Waikiki Hoolaulea. This vibrant block party along Kalakaua Avenue features live entertainment, delicious local cuisine, and traditional Hawaiian crafts. This is the largest Hawaiian cultural festival of the year and definitely one visitors won’t want to miss.
Hawaii Food and Wine Festival
October
The Hawaii Food and Wine Festival in Honolulu is a gastronomic extravaganza in October. Renowned chefs from around the world gather to showcase their culinary skill. Indulge in a variety of tastings, gourmet dinners, and cooking demonstrations centered around Hawaiian cuisine and ingredients. Exquisite cocktails and wine pairings accompany the delectable fare found at this premier foodie festival.
Honolulu City Lights
December
The holiday season in Honolulu kicks off with the annual Honolulu City Lights celebration. The Honolulu City Hall transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive lights and decorations. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful light displays, a holiday parade, and a massive Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This family-friendly event is the start of Christmas in Waikiki and perfect for visitors of all ages to soak in the holiday cheer.
As you plan your getaway to Honolulu and Waikiki, consider making these events part of your trip and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Hawaii. Book your Waikiki vacation rental through Novation Realty today and let the adventure begin!
