O'ahu transforms into a tropical winter wonderland during the holiday season, blending Hawaiian traditions with festive cheer. From November through New Year's, the island comes alive with unique celebrations that capture the special magic of spending the holidays in paradise.
Must-See Holiday Light Displays
1. Honolulu City Lights (Downtown Honolulu)
- Opening Night Parade: December 7th
- Nightly displays through January 1st
- Features: 50-foot Norfolk Pine Christmas tree, Shaka Santa & Tutu Mele
- Best filming spots:
- Front of Honolulu Hale for the tree
- Reflection shots in the fountain
- Electric Light Parade route along King Street
- Best filming spots:
- Nightly light shows synchronized to music
- Photo opportunities with seasonal displays
- Local tip: Best viewing times are 6:30-9:00 PM
- Annual tree lighting ceremony
- Weekend train rides through light displays
- Perfect for family photo opportunities
Signature Holiday Events
1. Festival of Lights Boat Parade (Hawaii Kai)
- Date: Mid-December
- Location: Hawaii Kai Marina
- Filming tips:
- Shoot from Koko Marina Center
- Get elevated shots from nearby restaurants
- Capture reflection shots in marina water
- Hawaii Ballet Theatre performances at Blaisdell Concert Hall
- Special local twist on the classic production
- Behind-the-scenes opportunities for content creation
Holiday Craft Fairs
- Honolulu Magazine's comprehensive list
- 808 Craft & Gift Fairs
- Malama Hawaii Market
- Local artisans and crafters
- Hawaiian holiday gifts
- Food vendors
Unique Hawaiian Holiday Traditions
- Traditional Hawaiian holiday celebrations
- Cultural demonstrations
- Nature meets festive decor
- Perfect for authentic cultural content
- Outrigger Canoe Santa arrival in Waikiki
- Waterfall of Lights at Hilton Hawaiian Village
- Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center - Weekly Performance Photo with Santa
Shopping Destinations
- Center Stage holiday performances
- Giant Christmas tree
- Special holiday pop-up shops
- Best filming times: Sunset for golden hour lighting
- Nightly tree lighting ceremony
- Hawaiian music performances
- Holiday hula shows
- Cultural demonstrations
- Holiday tree light show
- Photos with Santa
- Special holiday menus at restaurants
Family-Friendly Activities
- Festive train rides through decorated gardens
- Holiday maze experience
- Seasonal treats and photo opportunities
- Ice skating in paradise
- Holiday-themed skating shows
- Kids' workshops and activities
New Year's Celebrations
1. Waikiki
- Multiple fireworks displays
- Beachfront dinner options
- Hotel countdown parties
- Filming tip: Secure rooftop access for best shots
- Family-friendly celebrations
- Beachside fireworks
- Resort activities and parties
Community Giving Opportunities
1. Local Charity Events
- Ward Village - Senior Giving Tree & Toys for Tots - Drop Off Locations
- Logos Bookstore
- Whole Foods Market
- TJ Maxx
- Laulima Giving Program
- Hawaii Pacific Health - Santas Workshop
- Aloha United Way
- Good Will Hawaii
3. Toy collections
4. Community service opportunities
