Season's Greetings from the Aloha state! December in Hawaii is rich with holiday colors and celebrations. Poinsettias, which thrive in Hawaii, add Christmas red and green color motifs to public spaces from Kauai to the Big Island. Here are some notable events across the Hawaiian Islands this December 2024.
Oahu: The Gathering Place
- Honolulu City Lights: Kicking off on December 7th, this month-long celebration transforms downtown Honolulu into a festive wonderland. The yearly event offers fun for the entire family! Check the website for the schedule of activities.
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: December 7th marks the 83rd anniversary of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Commemorative events, including memorial services and educational programs, are held to honor the lives lost and reflect on this pivotal moment in history.
- Honolulu Marathon: On December 8th, the world's best runners gather on Oahu for one of the world's biggest marathons. The scenic 6.2-mile course begins near Ala Moana Beach Park, winds through downtown Honolulu, and continues past Diamond Head before finishing at Kapi'olani Park. The marathon is renowned for its "Aloha Spirit," welcoming runners of all levels to experience the beauty of O'ahu while challenging themselves in this endurance event.
Maui: The Valley Isle
- Makaha Sons – 'Tis the Season Concert: On December 6th, Makaha Sons bring their beloved sounds to Maui, celebrating the holiday season with traditional Hawaiian music.
- Maui Pops Orchestra — Holiday Pops: Scheduled for December 8th, this concert features festive holiday music, blending classical and contemporary arrangements to usher in the season's spirit.
Hawaii Island: The Big Island
- Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade: Celebrating its 64th year, this twilight parade on December 7th features illuminated floats and festive cheer, bringing joy to the Waimea community.
- Kailua Kalikimaka: Kokua Kailua Monthly Stroll, Holiday Concert & Lighted Boat Parade: On December 8th, Kailua Village hosts a holiday stroll with vendor booths, a concert at Emma's Square, and a lighted boat parade along the Kona pier, offering a unique holiday experience by the sea.
- Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade: On December 14th, the Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade makes its debut on Ali'i Drive with local bands and festive floats, embodying the community's holiday spirit.
Kauai: The Garden Isle
- Lights on Rice Parade: On December 6th, Rice Street in Līhu'e comes alive with a lively parade filled with colorful floats, hula dancers, and upbeat holiday music. It's a wonderful celebration that kicks off the holiday season on Kaua'i.
- Waimea Light Parade: Scheduled for December 21st, this evening parade in Waimea showcases illuminated floats and holiday cheer, bringing the community together in celebration.
Island-Wide Festivities
- Hawai'i Bowl: On December 24th, the 21st annual Hawai'i Bowl takes place in at the Clarence T. C. Ching Athletics Complex in Honolulu. This year, South Florida and San Jose State will meet up in what is a college football holiday tradition. The event also offers fans an exciting sporting event amidst the festive season.
- New Year's Eve Celebrations: As December comes to a close, various locations across the islands host New Year's Eve events, including fireworks displays, live music, and cultural performances, providing memorable ways to welcome the new year.
Natural Wonders
- Whale Watching Season: Winter is whale watching season in Hawai'i. Each year, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. On Maui you, can marvel at the special along Honoapi'ilani Highway. But be carful because in Hawaii, whale-watching season is fender-bender season!
- Big Waves on North Shore: The winter months bring massive swells to the north shores of the islands of Hawaii, attracting surfers from around the world. The Vans Pipe Masters runs during the month of December and showcases top surfing talent. This is a unique palce to safely watch big waves and the chargers who ride them right from the beach.
If you're visiting Hawaii in December, you're in for a treat. The festive season in Hawaii blends cultural traditions, joyous celebrations, and natural wonders. Each island offers unique experiences and events that offer an opportunity to celebrate with and support the local communities.
Mahalo and Mele Kalikimaka!
