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Oahu Events in December

December Events

As Oahu opens back up many events are starting back up, while others have been canceled or rescheduled with hopes of taking place at future dates.  Take a look at Oahu event updates to learn more...

Holiday Luau - Dec 1st - 31st, 2022

Kick off the holidays with a special luau that will be going on all month long!  Paradise Cove is not just another luau, it’s a full production with lots of activities and entertainment that some others tend to lack.  Kick off the afternoon with some Mai Tai’s and join in the celebration and festivities!

Paradise Luau

A Luau is a celebration for enjoying each other’s company, play traditional Hawaiian games, watching a Kalua Pork Imu ceremony take place, participate in a hukilau of pulling in a large fishnet from the ocean, listening to live local music, and being entertained throughout the night with many Polynesian and Hula performances.

Chinatown Winter Walk – Dec 1st – Dec 31st, 2022

Make a point to take a stroll through the downtown Chinatown district and see the holiday transformation!  Over 40 merchants will be dressing up their windows and shops for the whole month of December!  Walking maps will be posted though out the area from King St to Hotel St to Pauahi to Bethal St, to Nuuanu to Smith St.

  • Location – 9 block radius within the Downtown Chinatown district
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - HCAD’s Facebook (@discoverchinatown) and Instagram (@discoverchinatownhi)

4th Annual Show Aloha Land –  Dec 1st – 31st, 2023

Celebrate the holidays as the Aloha Stadium is transformed into a Winter Wonderland with a long list of activities including an amazing light show to walk through.  There will also be a petting zoo, train rides, bubble room, falling fake snow, lots of games, and professional photo-ops with Santa for the kekeis.  Join the fun, grab a bite to eat, beer garden, and enjoy the live music and entertainment.

  • Location – Aloha Stadium
  • Time – Multiple Times & Dates
  • Cost - $40, Free for 2 and under
  • Learn more – Show Aloha Land

39th Annual Honolulu City Lights – Dec 2nd thru Jan 2nd, 2023

Whether or not you’re feeling the holiday spirit, the downtown Honolulu City lights, also know as Honolulu Hale, is an amazing spectacle to see.  The festivities start off with the lighting of the 50 ft Christmas tree followed by an electric parade of lights.  This is a must see for the whole family.  There will be food booths, games and rides for the keiki’s.

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing at Sunset Beach – Nov 26th - Feb 25th, 2023

World Cup is the second leg of the Triple Crown of Surfing that takes places at big waves Haleiwa Beach.  Watch hundreds of top surfer who travel from around the world to compete in 3 of these contests and beat each other out to be crowned the best surfer in the world.

81st Pearl Harbor Anniversary Events – Dec 2nd – 10th, 2022

Commemorating the 76th anniversary and memory of Pearl Harbor, there will be a number of events happening each day from December 2nd thru the 10th.

Included in the ongoing celebration will be live Jazz & Blues band performances, outdoor movie nights on Waikiki Beach, reef laying ceremonies, An opening gala and block party, night at the museum, honoring dinners, ceremonial memorial services, a parade, and finishing off with a Honolulu Marathon honoring the past and celebrating the future.  Check out more in the Pearl Harbor special 76th schedule link below.

  • Location – daily events in multiple locations…see schedule
  • Cost vary from FREE to admission fees
  • Learn more – Pearl Harbor Events

Royal Hawaiian Band FREE performance – Dec 2nd, 9th & 16th, 2022

The Royal Hawaiian Band has ongoing performances around Honolulu, including Kapiolani Park and at the Iolani Palace.  Bring your beach blankets, lounge chairs, the family, and set up a picnic and enjoy the concerts taking place. 

  • Location – Iolani Palace
  • Time – 12 PM to 1 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more - RHB-Music.com

First Friday Art Walk - Dec 1st, 2023

First Friday is an evening art walk that takes place in Chinatown Honolulu.  This is a popular fun event that takes place every 1st Friday of each month.  This First Friday will be have a holiday theme to it.  Surrounding merchants of art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars are known for opening up their doors, pouring wine and providing food to those stopping by.

Most neighborhood shops will have maps of participating merchants.  The event ends at 9 PM, but the fun continues into the night with thousands of people flocking into the streets.

Also participating in the free art viewing and festivities is the Hawaii State Art Museum (free from 6 PM to 9 PM)

Christmas Biathlon - Dec 2nd, 2022

Here's a fun entry level biathlon taking place in an ideal setting. Run 5 miles through out Ala Moana Beach Park and finishing the race with a 1 mile swim along the beach.

  • Location - Ala Moana Beach Park
  • Time - 6:15 am check-in, race at 7:30 am
  • Cost - $30 to $150
  • Learn more - active.com

16th Anniversary Opening Gala at the Pearl Harbor Pacific Aviation Museum – Dec 3rd, 2022

Join the anniversary celebration for the Pearl Harbor Pacific Aviation Museum.  Participates will be in for a special treat as they dine in the museum surrounding by some of the classic restored aircrafts.  This Gala includes dinner, live music/entertainment, and an auction that benefits the restoration of these planes and educational programs.

  • Location - Pearl Harbor Pacific Aviation Museum
  • Time – 6 PM to 10 PM
  • Cost - Carol Greene at 808-441-1006 or Carol.Greene@PacificAviationMuseum.org
  • Learn more – www.pacificaviationmuseum.org

E Noa City Lights – Dec 3rd – 26th, 2022

Ride around in a seasonal double decker bus that is glowing with holiday lights.Tis the Season and this is one holiday lighting ceremony you do not want to miss!  This is holiday display by Symmetry Labs, is a creation of luminous flowers that are choreographed to music with changing colors and movement in the display.

Festivities include art displays, a holiday market, live music, and food & drinks to purchase.  There will also be carnival type rides available via ticket purchase.

  • Location – Victoria Ward Park, 980 Auahi St.
  • Time – 6 PM – 10 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn More – Ward Village Events

A Pinch of SALT - Dec 3rd, 2022

Kaka'ako takes its turn for some fun local holiday shopping.  Pop by for literally a bunch of popups surrounding the SALT Marketplace, selling unique good from local artisans and merchants.

  • Location - SALT Marketplace
  • Time - 10 AM to 2 PM
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - SALT Events

Aloha Home Market – Dec 4th, 2022

Enjoy a popup market with lots of Made in Hawaii booth. Everything from art creations to custom jewelry to locally crafted furniture…and lots of food booths along the way. Shop and support the local community!

  • Location – 340 Uluniu St, Kailua
  • Time – 9 AM to 2 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more – Aloha Home Market FB

Royal Hawaiian Band FREE performance – Dec 4th, 2023

There are always ongoing performances at the Ala Moana Center Stage, but the Royal Hawaiian Band will be a special treat.  Do a little shopping and show up early for this performance as it will get crowded and be hard to get a good viewing spot. 

  • Location – Ala Moana Center Stage
  • Time – 3 PM to 3:45 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more - RHB-Music.com

Jingle Rock Run - Dec 4th, 2022

In the holiday giving spirit while run around beautiful Ko'olina?  Put your running shoes on and help raise some money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Runner will participate in a 2.5 mile route through Ko'olina and finish with some festivities and live entertainment on the route and at the finish line.

  • Location - Ko'olina
  • Time - 3 PM Festivities, 5 PM Jingle Rock Run Start
  • Cost - $30 to $40
  • Learn more - Jingle Rock Run

Holiday Lights Trolley Tour - Dec 4th - 24th, 2022

Make a reservation early to ride the Waikiki Trolley for a 30 minute tour through the Honolulu Parade of Lights in the downtown area, including passing by the one and only Shaka Santa.  Followed by an hour to walk around and enjoy the festive scene before returning.

  • Location - Kaka'ako
  • Time - Multiple Times
  • Cost - $17 to $25, FREE for 2 and under
  • Learn more - Holiday Light Tour

Ko'olina Artfest - Dec 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th, 2023

Head to Ko’olina beach lagoon #3 for a day of Hawaiian music and local art display & sale!  Along the arching sidewalk you find close to 40 artist displaying their artwork for viewing and sale…perfect for special gifts!  There will also be Hawaiian slack-key guitarist and ukulele musicians playing during the duration of this event.

Billabong Pipe Masters –  Dec 8th - Dec 20th, 2022

Here’s your grand finale of the Triple Crown of Surfing contest.  Come watch the men being separated from the boys as they take on some impressive winter size barrels at the famous Banzai Pipeline!  This is a fun leg of the contest to watch as the action is front row, with massive waves break on the reef close to shore!  You’ll have to get up early for this contest if you want to make it to the North Shore, and find a spot on the beach to watch!

Royal Hawaiian Band FREE performance – Dec 8th, 2023

There are always ongoing performances at the International Market Place, but the Royal Hawaiian Band will be a special treat.  Do a little shopping and show up early for this performance as it will get crowded and be hard to get a good viewing spot. 

  • Location – International Market Place Stage
  • Time – 11 AM to 12 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more - RHB-Music.com

Honolulu Craft and Gift Fair - Dec 9th, 2023

A day full of direct and resale sellers representing jewelry, make up, clothing, collectibles, toys, and treasures from Japan & Korea.

  • Location - Japanese Cultural Center, 2454 S Beretania St
  • Time - 9 AM to 1 PM
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - Japanese Cultural Center

Bishop Museum After Hours - Dec 9th, 2022

The Bishop Museum has started a First Friday of each month After Hours event.  The campus remains open into the evening, but they also create a party scene on their great lawn area, with live music, food trucks, games, and some fun art exhibitions.  Each month has a different theme that alters the scene and vibe a little, and you can always count on it being a fun time!

  • Location - Bishop Museum
  • Time - 5:30 PM to 9 PM
  • Cost - Museum Admission Fee
  • Learn More - Bishop Museum Events

Kalakaua Merrie Mile – Dec 10th, 2022

If you’re not ready for a 26 mile marathon, maybe a 1 mile fun down Kalakaua Ave might be suitable!  Throw in a beach party at the end, on Waikiki Beach, and it’s hard not to join in all the fun!  All running and walking folks are encouraged to participate.  There will be different starting waves of runners/walkers, depending on your ability.  Entries includes race shirt and finishing medal.

Winter Craft and Collectibles Fair - Dec 10, 2022

Time to find some treasures in the Winter Crafts and Collectibles Fair.  There will be lots of venders displaying all types of art creations, crafts, and jewelry collections at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii.  Make a point to stop by this free event to kick off the holidays.

Kapolei City Lights - Dec 10th, 2022

Holiday lights, Food & Fun...Oh my!  The Kapolei Civic Center near Ko'olina will be hosting a fun filled holiday cheers evening with an amazing holiday light show.  Come join the fun with lots of food trucks and holiday surprises.

  • Location – Kapolei Hale 1000 Ulu‘ōhia Street
  • Time – 5 PM to 9 PM
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - Kapolei City Lights

6th Annual Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace – Dec 10th & 11th, 2022

Come early and join in the fun with ongoing festivities, and tone of great holiday shopping booths with creative and unique gifts for purchase.  There will be a fun keiki Christmas Carnival & Winter Wonderland to explore, and make sure to get a pic Santa and meet Rudolph!

Royal Hawaiian Band FREE performance – Dec 11th, 2023

There are always ongoing performances at the Ala Moana Center Stage, but the Royal Hawaiian Band will be a special treat.  Do a little shopping and show up early for this performance as it will get crowded and be hard to get a good viewing spot. 

  • Location – Ala Moana Center Stage
  • Time – 11 AM to 12 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more - RHB-Music.com

40th Annual ‘The Eddie’ big-wave surf contest
Dec 14th 2022 - March 14th, 2023

In honor and memory of legendary Eddie Aikau, a group of sponsors hold an annual “Eddie Would Go” big wave surfing contest.  The event window takes place over a three month period, waiting patiently for a big enough swell to roll into the North Shore.

Watch big wave riders paddling into monstrous waves at Waimea Bay, and compete for the title.  Opening ceremonies take place on Nov 29th, which is a moving event in itself.

Yoga on Waikiki Beach - Dec, Daily except Weds, 2022

Yoga on the beach or next to it on the grass!  This 75 minute class focuses on power vinyasa yoga and restorative yoga.  Practice yoga into the sunset and watch the moon rise.  Yoga mats and props are provided.  Simply sign up and show up.

  • Location - Queens Beach, Waikiki
  • Time - Starts at 7 AM to 8 AM
  • Cost - $20
  • Learn more - Waikiki Beach Yoga

Aloha Home Market – Dec 11th, 2022

Enjoy a popup market with lots of Made in Hawaii booth. Everything from art creations to custom jewelry to locally crafted furniture…and lots of food booths along the way. Shop and support the local community!

  • Location – 340 Uluniu St, Kailua
  • Time – 9 AM to 2 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more – Aloha Home Market FB

50th Annual Honolulu Marathon – Dec 11th, 2022

Sign up, train and run in one of the most popular marathons not only to Hawaii, but an event which athletes and participants travel from around the world to partake in.  The run will start along Ala Moana Beach Park, travel through Waikiki, Diamond Head, out to Hawaii Kai & back, and end in Kapiolani Park.  Note that services will be available from 5 am to 2 pm.

  • Location – Start near Ala Moana Beach Park & ends in Kapiolani Park
  • Time – 7 AM to 1 PM
  • Cost - $225 - $325
  • Learn more – www.honolulumarathon.org

Ko'olina Artfest - Dec 14th, 2022

Head to Ko’olina beach lagoon #3 for a day of Hawaiian music and local art display & sale!  Along the arching sidewalk you find close to 40 artist displaying their artwork for viewing and sale…perfect for special gifts!  There will also be Hawaiian slack-key guitarist and ukulele musicians playing during the duration of this event.

Art Gallery & Night Market - Dec 16th, 2022

Every 3rd Friday of the month a special night market takes place in Kailua around downtown Kailua.  Join the fun and festivities into the evening.  There will be lots of local arts and crafts, food booths, and entertainment.

Honolulu Symphony Orchestra: Muppets Christmas – Dec 16th - 18th, 2022

Join the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra for a special holiday production titled the Muppets Christmas Carol.  This will be an in-concert being played while the movie being shown on a big screen.

.  Arrive early for a cocktail reception.

CHRISTMAS IN POLYNESIA  - Dec 16th - 23rd, 2022

The Polynesian Cultural Center gets festive with holiday activities and decor.  Take a ride in their Christmas Lagoon Canoe Ride that travels along a special path set up with live reenactments that celebrate the "birth of the savior".  Bring the kids out for holiday train rides and a free scavenger hunt.  These special holiday events take place after the main park activates finish, and the evening events begin.

Don't miss Winter Wonderland, playing in the snow on Dec 15th & 21st, 3 to 6 PM at the Hukilau Marketplace

Christmas at the Hukilau Marketplace – December 16th - 23rd, 2022

The Christmas holiday celebration is another great reason to head to the Polynesian Cultural Center!  It will be a weekend full of full of holiday festivities and wonderful displays of lights and decorations.  Activites include special presentations & entertainment, special guests, and tons of snow on Sunday.

  • Location:  Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center
  • Time: 3 PM to 7 PM
  • Cost:  FREE
  • Learn more:  HukilauMarketplace.com

Cinema in the Park – Dec TBD

Cinema in the Park is a free monthly event that takes place every 2nd Wednesday in Kaka’ako.  While movie night is free, you must RSVP and enter with tickets.  Blankets are permitted but beach chairs are not.  Grab a bite to eat, some drinks, and most importantly a seat to enjoy the festivities and entertainment.

  • Location – Victoria Ward Park
  • Time – 7 PM to 9 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more – Cinema in the Park

Koko Marina Center Craft & Gift Fair - Dec 16th, 2023

Where better to have a craft and gift fair, than in an outdoor shopping center.  There will be over 60 vendors selling everything from crafted jewelry, art work, electronics, clothing, food creations, and lots of handcrafted goods. With free parking and food vendors on site cooking up a storm, it's hard to pass up!

  • Location - Koko Marina Center
  • Time - 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - Koko Marina Center

Holiday Events - For the Month of December

Make sure to check lots of holiday events at the beginning of this page that extend through the whole month...

Aloha Home Market – Dec 18th, 2022

Enjoy a popup market with lots of Made in Hawaii booth. Everything from art creations to custom jewelry to locally crafted furniture…and lots of food booths along the way. Shop and support the local community!

  • Location – 340 Uluniu St, Kailua
  • Time – 9 AM to 2 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more – Aloha Home Market FB

Royal Hawaiian Band FREE performance – Dec 18th, 2023

The Royal Hawaiian Band has ongoing performances around Honolulu, including Kapiolani Park and at the Iolani Palace.  Bring your beach blankets, lounge chairs, the family, and set up a picnic and enjoy the concerts taking place. 

  • Location – Kapiolani Park Bandstand
  • Time – 1 PM to 2 PM
  • Cost – FREE
  • Learn more - RHB-Music.com

Na Mele O Ko’olina – Dec TBD, 2022

Head to Ko’olina beach lagoon #3 for a day of Hawaiian music and local art display & sale!  Hawaii's very best Slack Key and Ukulele musicians, as well as 30 Hawaiian artists who display their artwork for sale

SEVEN DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS WITH ISLAND MUSIC AND HULA                         Dec 19th - Dec 25th TBD

Stroll over to the Waikiki Beach Walk during sunset hour and watch an entertaining outdoor 1 hour hula show with live Hawaiian music performances by different groups each evening.

  • Location - Waikiki Beach Walk
  • Time - 6 PM to 7 PM each day
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - WaikikiBeachWalk.com

Whale Watching Tour - Dec 19th - 31st, 2022

Oahu Whale Watching Tour

If you’re visiting during whale migrating months (late Dec – early May) you might be fortunate to see humpback whales surfacing along the south and western coastline.  Ride a catamaran or monohull boat with a small group tour from Waikiki (through the Kewalo Basin Harbor) or from Ko Olina (through the Waianae Harbor), to get a closer look at these magnificent sea mammals.

If you're lucky, you're get to watch the whales breaching the water and splash around, along with other surprises from local marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.  Book your Whale Watching Tour now...

Ko'olina Artfest - Dec 21st, 2022

Head to Ko’olina beach lagoon #3 for a day of Hawaiian music and local art display & sale!  Along the arching sidewalk you find close to 40 artist displaying their artwork for viewing and sale…perfect for special gifts!  There will also be Hawaiian slack-key guitarist and ukulele musicians playing during the duration of this event.

Honolulu Symphony Orchestra: Ode to Joy – Jan TBD

An annual symphony tradition, welcoming the new year with “Ode to Joy”.  You don’t have to be a classical music lover to enjoy this production!  The Honolulu Symphony Orchestra will pair up with the Oahu Choral Society for this special Beethoven’s Symphony masterpiece.

Holiday Events - For the Month of December

Make sure to check lots of holiday events at the beginning of this page that extend through the whole month...

Oahu New Year's Eve Events

New Year’s Eve Moonlight Cruise - Dec 31st 2022

Ring in the New Year a little different this year, and jump on board a special night cruise that's setting sail New Year’s Eve.  Look forward to a gourmet buffet, live music, and drinking champagne with some fantastic views of fireworks set to go off in the magic hour.  This will be a fun night!

Make sure you secure your tickets early as this New Year's Eve Cruise will sell out!

  • Location – Departs from Aloha Tower Market, Pier 8
  • Time – 10:00 to 1:00 am
  • Cost - $178 per person
  • Learn more - New Year's Eve Cruise

New Year’s Eve Special – Legends in Concert - Dec 31st, 2022

Secure your tickets to a ‘Rockin Eve’ grand experience into the New Year!  That’s right, celebrate 2017 with some familiar sounds and performances from the likes of Elton John, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, and the King…Elvis!  And while this will be a special celebratory show with complimentary party favors, party hats, and noise makers, there are some great ticket options that includes a memorable 4-course dinner, live music, and champagne!  

This show will sell out!  Secure tickets early…review more details and purchase tickets!

  • Location – Royal Hawaiian Center
  • Time – 6:30 PM pre-party dinner & drinks, 8:15 PM Show Starts
  • Cost - $58/Child & $98.99/Adult - Show only, up to $214.99/Adult - King’s VIP Ticket
  • Learn more – New Year’s Eve Special

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA "Monte Carlo Casino Night” - Dec 31st, 2022

Party into the new year with a rolling 1920's decadence thyme along the waterfront.  From hors d'oeuvres to signature cocktails to decor, it's all served up prohibition style!  There will be a bourbon bar, cigar lounge, food stations, and complimentary champagne toast...along with 3 drinks with your admission. 

  • Location - 53 By the Sea
  • Time 9 PM to 1 AM
  • Cost - $150 Single to $1800 VIP Room
  • Learn more - 53 by the Sea

Aloha Tower New Year’s Party – December 31st, 2022

Looking for a New Year’s celebration party?  Aloha Tower will be hosting their annual New Year’s bash, with over 30 live bands and DJ performances on 7 different stages.  There will also be ono eats on site provided by Eat the Street Food truck venders, and an awesome fireworks display to ring in the New Year!  Consider upgrading to a VIP pass that gives you access to the upper level Sky Lounge, exclusive food tastings by Gordon Biersch, and a premier viewing spot for the fireworks.

  • Location:  Aloha Tower Marketplace
  • Time: TBD
  • Cost:  TBD

New Year's Eve Fireworks - Dec 31st, 2022

You don't need big plans on New Years Eve to stroll Waikiki Beach close to mid-night and view an extravagant fireworks display, with more than 1800 shells to be fired into the sky.  Tune into 105 KINE FM to listen to choreographed music to the fireworks.

  • Location Waikiki Beach
  • Time - 11:55 PM
  • Cost - FREE
  • Learn more - (808) 923-1094

Here are some other firework displays that will be happening around the island on New Year's Eve

  • Location: Aloha Tower Marketplace
  • Time: 9 p.m., 10 p.m., 11 p.m., and 12 Midnight
  • Location: Barge off of Kahala Avenue
  • Time: 10:30 p.m.
  • Location: Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Lagoon
  • Time: 11:45 p.m.
  • Location: The Kahala Hotel & Resort
  • Time: 12 Midnight
  • Location: Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina, Coves 1 & 2
  • Time: 12 Midnight
  • Location: Turtle Bay Resort
  • Time: 11:59 p.m.

January Events

Make sure to review upcoming January Events as well...

Also check out Ongoing Oahu Shows & Entertainment.

Return to Oahu Events

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