festivals-and-events-in-Honolulu, Hawaii

Celebrate Aloha: Local Festivals & Events in Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant city brimming with culture and excitement. Beyond its famous beaches and iconic landmarks, there’s a calendar overflowing with unique local festivals and events celebrating Hawaiian heritage, music, food, and art.

Cultural Celebrations:

  • Aloha Festivals (September): A month-long celebration of Hawaiian culture featuring parades, concerts, hula competitions, and craft fairs.

  • Prince Lot Hula Festival (October): Witness the beauty and grace of traditional Hawaiian hula at this annual event held in Moiliili.

  • Merrie Monarch Festival (April): The world’s premier hula competition, drawing participants from across the globe. Held in Hilo on the Big Island, it’s a short flight from Honolulu.

  • Ho’olaulea Festivals: Numerous neighborhoods and communities host their own Ho’olaulea celebrations throughout the year, featuring local food, crafts, music, and games.

Music & Entertainment:

  • Honolulu Festival (March): A multicultural extravaganza showcasing music, dance, art, and cuisine from Japan, Polynesia, and beyond.
  • Ukulele Festivals: Several ukulele festivals are held throughout the year, offering workshops, performances by renowned musicians, and opportunities to learn about this beloved Hawaiian instrument.
  • Sunset on the Beach (Summer): Free concerts held at Waikiki Beach featuring local bands playing a variety of genres.

Food & Drink:

  • Taste of Honolulu (April/May): Sample delicious bites from Honolulu’s top restaurants at this annual food festival.
  • North Shore Food Truck Festivals: Head to the North Shore for weekend food truck festivals featuring diverse culinary creations and local favorites.

Art & Culture:

  • Honolulu Museum of Art First Friday Events: Enjoy free admission, live music, art demonstrations, and more on the first Friday of each month.
  • POW! WOW! Hawaii (February): An international street art festival transforming Honolulu into a vibrant canvas with murals by talented artists.

Seasonal Events:

  • Lei Day (May 1st): Celebrate Hawaiian culture by wearing leis and attending Lei Day festivals featuring music, hula, and lei-making demonstrations.
  • Chinese New Year Parades (January/February): Experience the colorful traditions of Chinese New Year with parades, lion dances, and delicious food in Chinatown.

Tips for Attending:

  • Check event websites for dates, times, and locations.
  • Purchase tickets in advance for popular events.
  • Embrace the Aloha spirit by being respectful of local customs and traditions.

Remember to explore beyond the tourist hotspots and discover the authentic charm of Honolulu through its vibrant festivals and events.