Things To Do Archives - Honolulu Magazine

The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings on O‘ahu

Jasmine Chagnon — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 21:00:58 +0000

Let the holiday season commence! Here’s where to go and what to do to get into the holiday spirit this year, whether you’re looking for Christmas lights or searching for Santa himself. Bookmark this roundup since it’ll be updated regularly.

Click to the holiday events you want to explore:

Festive Lights & Parades

Photo: Courtesy of Royal Hawaiian Center

Royal Hawaiian Center Holiday Kick-Off & Tree Lighting Ceremony

Wednesday, Nov. 27, 5 to 7 p.m.

Await the arrival of Aloha Santa with live local music, hula performances and holiday characters. Aloha Santa will lead the lighting of the 34-foot holiday tree decked in Hawaiian ornaments. Stick around to take a free professional photo with him!

Free, Royal Hawaiian Center Royal Grove, 2201 Kalākaua Ave., royalhawaiiancenter.com, @royalhwnctr

Christmas Tree Lighting at the Royal Hawaiian

Friday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m.

The Royal Hawaiian will be fully decked out with 30,000 lights, and to complete the scene, the tree will be illuminated.

Free, The Royal Hawaiian, 2259 Kalākaua Ave., marriott.com, @royal_hawaiian

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Waikīkī Holiday Parade

Friday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m.

This holiday parade honors survivors of the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor and members of the U.S. military with Island bands, military members and local officials, dignitaries, entertainers and more. The torch-lit 1.5-mile night parade begins at Fort DeRussy, continues along Kalākaua Avenue and ends at Kapi‘olani Park.

Free, Waikīkī, waikikiholidayparade.com

Hawai‘i Kai Holiday Parade

Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The parade will start at the corner of Lunalilo Home Road and Hawai‘i Kai Drive (by the HK Skate Park) and march down Lunalilo Home Road, ending at Koko Marina Center. Stick around for the afterparty from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Koko Marina Center courtyard, which will feature hula, carnival games, holiday crafts, balloon art and Santa Claus. Bring a toy donation to receive 10 free tickets to play the carnival games.

Free, Koko Marina Center, 7192 Kalaniana‘ole Hwy, kokomarinacenter.com, @kokomarinacenter

Kapolei City Lights & Holiday Parade

Lights: Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025

Block Party: Saturday, Nov. 30, 5 to 9 p.m.

Parade: Saturday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m.

Join the Leeward O‘ahu community at a festive block party along Ala Kahawai and Ulu‘ōhi‘a St. near Kapolei Hale. Enjoy food trucks, luminous displays of holiday cheer and a holiday parade. The parade will begin outside of Kapolei High School and end at Kama‘aha Street. The holiday lights will be displayed nightly until 11 p.m.

Free, 1000 Ulu‘ōhia St., Kapolei, honolulu.gov, @kapoleisanta

Kaimukī Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m.

The Kaimukī Christmas Parade returns with marching bands, scout troops, schools, businesses, walkers, trollies and Santa, altogether about 40 groups. The Christmas tree on top of Pu‘u O Kaimukī will also be lit.

Free, Wai‘alae Ave., kaimukihawaii.com

Photo: Courtesy of City and County of Honolulu

Honolulu City Lights

Saturday, Dec. 7, through Tuesday, December 31

View Christmas trees decorated in various themes by City and County of Honolulu departments. Shaka Santa, Tūtū Mele and the snowman family will also be there spreading holiday cheer. On Dec. 7, Mayor Rick Blangiardi will light the city’s 50-foot holiday tree as well as the lights strung up around Honolulu Hale and the Civic Center grounds. Get a free photo with Santa on opening night.

Free, parking available in the municipal lot at Alapai and Beretania St., 530 S. King St., honolulucitylights.org, @friendshonolulucitylights

Christmas Tree Lighting at the Moana Surfrider

Friday, Dec. 13

Come see the resort’s Christmas tree centerpiece in the lobby light up for the first time amid the decked out halls.

Free, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach, 2365 Kalākaua Ave., marriott.com, @themoanasurfrider

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Kai Towne Center

Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade

Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.

Come see the marina boats decked out and lit up in a parade on the water, and vote for your favorites.

Free, Hawai‘i Kai Marina, hawaiikaimarina.com, @hkmca_hawaii

Shopping

The Gift of Experience at Ward Village

Nov. 8–30

Spend $200 or more at Ward Village retailers and show your receipts to receive two free tickets to Consolidated Theatres at Ward (while supplies last). Receipts can be during business hours at Crazy Shirts and Paul Brown Salons in Ward Centre and House of Mana Up in South Shore Market. More details online.

Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Holiday Gift With Purchase at Ala Moana Center

Nov. 9 to Dec. 24

Receive a travel tote featuring a Big Santa enamel charm when you spend $500 from Nov. 9 to Dec. 24 (while supplies last). Redeem your receipts at Guest Services on the ground floor. See the terms and conditions online.

Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

Holiday Sip+Shop at Kāhala Mall

Saturday, Nov. 9, 5 to 8 p.m.

Have a bubbly holiday shopping experience with different wine tastings using your commemorative wine glass, light bites and exclusive deals at participating Kāhala Mall retailers. Plus, stick around for the giveaways at the end of the holiday event held at Center Court.

$50 general admission tickets online, $60 at the door, Kāhala Mall, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., kahalamallcenter.com, @kahalamall

Christmas Tree Sale at Helemano Farms

Saturday, Nov. 23, and Sunday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m. to dark (only Norfolk pines available)

Friday, Nov. 29, to Sunday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to dark

Wednesday, Dec. 4, to Sunday, Dec. 22; Wednesday 1 p.m. until dark; Thursday and Friday 2 p.m. until dark; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. until dark

Head to this family farm in Wahiawā to pick your own Norfolk pine or cypress tree grown right here in Hawai‘i. The whole ‘ohana (even dogs!) can search the farm for the perfect tree.

$60–$250 for Norfolk pine (up to 12 feet), $70–$320 for a cypress (up to 12 feet), 1750 Whitmore Ave., Wahiawā, helemanofarms.com

Christmas Tree Sales by Richard Tajiri’s Christmas Hawai‘i

Open daily from Nov. 23, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Thanksgiving: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Richard Tajiri’s Christmas Hawai‘i will be selling Noble firs, Nordman firs, Fraser firs, Douglas firs and Grand firs on the Coral Level near the Atkinson Trolley Depot at Ala Moana Center.

Near the Atkinson Trolley Depot at Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., christmastreesinhawaii.com

Habilitat’s Christmas Tree Project

Open daily starting Saturday, Nov. 30, noon to 9 p.m.

Shop wreaths, door charms and noble, grand and Douglas firs for your holiday décor. Proceeds go toward the nonprofit that’s been working to help people overcome substance abuse and other antisocial behaviors for more than 40 years. This year’s retail locations are at Central Union Church, Koko Marina Shopping Center, Stadium Mall and Kāne‘ohe Safeway.

Tree prices from $82, habilitat.com

Holiday Art Fair

Dec. 4–28, Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.

Meet the Artists Receptions: Friday, Dec. 6 and 27, 5 to 8 p.m.

Browse the artistic creations of local artists and craftspeople, including ornaments, cards and prints, and even take some home as unique holiday gifts.

Free admission, The Arts at Marks Garage, 1159 Nu‘uanu Ave., associationhawaiiartists.com, windwardartistsguild.org

Holiday Sip + Shop in Kailua Town

Thursday, Dec. 12, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Shop exclusive deals from more than 20 local Kailua shops while enjoying refreshments, like mocktails and malasadas, and live entertainment. Adult participants can grab an event passport at the Lau Hala Shops lobby (by the UFC gym entrance) and fill it out with stamps for a chance to win a $500 Kailua Town gift package. Try to get there early since the first 75 people to check in will receive exclusive holiday Kailua Town tote bags. All ticket sales will benefit Shop Small Hawai‘i.

Early bird tickets (purchase by Dec. 11) $10, at the door $15, Lau Hala Shops, 573 Kailua Road, Kailua, kailuatownhi.com, @kailuatownhi

Very Merry Event at Kāhala Mall

Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Buy Very Merry Event ticket pamphlets to support your favorite nonprofits. The pamphlet is full of offers from 50+ participating Kāhala Mall merchants. You can also enter to win a one-night staycation at the Kāhala Hotel & Resort with a breakfast for two at The Plumeria Beach House and $100 Kāhala Mall gift cards.

$5 for a ticket pamphlet, Kāhala Mall, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., kahalamallcenter.com, @kahalamall

Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace

Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace showcases local food products, books, apparel, jewelry, crafts and more gifts from more than 250 vendors.

$6 for adults, $4 for seniors 60+, students, military (ID required for all), keiki 12 years and under free with a paid adult, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, 777 Ward Ave., melekalikimakamarketplace.com

Mahalo I Kau Kumu Holiday Gift Fair

Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Shop snacks, crafts and apparel. Island Craft Fairs will also be collecting school supply donations for our hardworking teachers at the info booth at Center Stage.

Ka Makana Ali‘i, 91-5431 Kapolei Pkwy, Kapolei, islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Food & Drinks

Good Eats & Pop-Up Treats

Wednesday, Nov. 27, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Kapa Hale is once again hosting a pop-up event with a noodle bar, baked good sale and other small businesses. The offerings range from smoked turkey pho and duck ramen to pumpkin chocolate brownies and the Kāhala Shuffle Mud Pie. See the full list of dishes and baked goods available online. Plus, shop pop-ups Pure Joy, Mango House Floral and more. Preview the food in this reel.

Call (808) 888-2060 to pre-order baked goods or go online, Kapa Hale, 4614 Kilauea Ave. Suite 102, kapahale.com, @4614kapahale

Photo: Tracy Chan

Sippin’ Santa Tiki-Themed Holiday Pop-Up Bar

Friday, Nov. 29, to Monday, Dec. 30

Monday to Thursday 5 to 9:30 p.m., Friday to Sunday 5 to 10 p.m.

Enjoy an assortment of festive craft cocktails with a tiki twist and small bites that will put any Scrooge in the holiday spirit—all while enjoying live local music. See what the bar looks like in this reel.

21+, validated parking, Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Winter Wonderland

Sunday, Dec. 1, to Saturday, Dec. 28, 5 p.m. to midnight

Have holiday-themed brews like frozen butterbeer in this cozy, Christmas-y pop-up bar decked out in ornaments and lights. Find it on the street level in the ‘Ewa wing of Ala Moana Center.

21+, Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., winterwonderlandhonolulu.com, @winterwonderlandhonolulu

Holiday Cookie Decorating at The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

Dec. 13, 17, 20 and 24, 10 a.m.

Pick up kits at the Concierge that will include freshly baked cookies, colorful icing, sprinkles and more toppings. The resort’s pastry chefs will share tips and tricks as you get to decorating.

$50 for resort guests, $75 for non-guests, The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay, 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, turtlebayresort.com, @ritzcarltonoahuturtlebay

Gingerbread Display at the Moana Surfrider

Saturday, Dec. 14

The Moana Surfrider will unveil its annual gingerbread display! This year’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” themed creation is the result of five skilled pastry chefs’ efforts over 189 hours.

Free, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach, 2365 Kalākaua Ave., marriott.com, @themoanasurfrider

Santa’s Charcuterie Workshop

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

This make-and-take workshop will teach you how to craft a Christmas wreath charcuterie board, plus you’ll enjoy light pūpū during the class.

$75, Fig & Ginger Honolulu, 1960 Kapiolani Blvd. #103, fghonolulu.com, @fig.gingerhonolulu

Breakfast With Santa at Dave & Buster’s

Sunday, Dec. 22, 8 a.m.

Enjoy a breakfast buffet with Santa along with festive activities. A Santa Ticket will also get you a photo with him and a $10 Power Card to play video games.

From $28.22, free for children under the age of 2, Dave and Buster’s, 1030 Auahi St., daveandbusters.com, @daveandbusters

Meet Santa at Kai Market

Sunday, Dec. 22, and Monday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m. to noon

Stop by Kai Market for breakfast and stick around for a meet-and-greet with Santa! No reservation needed.

Free, Kai Market, 2255 Kalākaua Ave., kaimarketwaikiki.com

Entertainment & Special Holiday Events

Photo: Courtesy of Ala Moana Center

Letters to Big Santa

Nov. 9 to Dec. 24

Keiki of all ages are invited to write their wishes to Ala Moana Center’s Big Santa. Free stationery is provided at the mailbox located on level 3 in the mauka wing.

Free, Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

Photo: Courtesy of Andrea Lee

Christmas Chaos at Room With a Clue

Through December

Escape game enthusiasts, try your hand at this scavenger hunt twist where instead of trying to get out of the room, you scour it for tokens. The previous sushi restaurant theme is now Christmassy with lots of puzzles and clue-hunting for the whole family to get into. Preview what the game is like in this reel.

$42/person for 2 players, $38/person for 3–8 players, free for keiki 5 and under, Room With a Clue, 1023 Pensacola St. Ste. G, roomwithaclue.com, @roomwithaclue

Roaming Carolers at Ala Moana Center

Saturdays, Nov. 19 to Dec. 21, 2 to 3 p.m.

Catch these carolers on the move around the mall singing holiday classics acapella.

Free, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

Photo: Aloha Immersive

’Twas the Light Before Christmas

Nov. 22 to Dec. 31

Sunday to Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ( last entry 8 p.m.)

Friday to Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (last entry 9 p.m.)

A unique immersive experience transforms the Convention Center into a Christmas wonderland with enchanting backdrops, whimsical light sculptures and festive scenes. Don’t forget to grab a themed drink and check out the gift shop.

From $31.99 (discounts available for keiki, kūpuna and military), free for keiki age 2 and younger, Hawai‘i Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Ave., alohaimmersive.com, @twas.honolulu

Window Wonderland

Friday, Nov. 22, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 and 5 p.m.

Queen Emma Ballet presents an original two-act ballet following the story of a girl who enters another world after seeing a sugar plum fairy in a store window display, brought to life by 85 dancers.

$33, free parking, Palikū Theatre at Windward Community College, 45-720 Kea‘ahala Road, Kāne‘ohe, queenemmaballet.com, @queenemmaballet

Santa’s Arrival at Windward Mall

Saturday, Nov. 23, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Welcome Santa at Windward Mall, where there will be an interactive Storybook Station Flurry and Snow Show, face painting and more activities. The first 200 keiki to arrive will receive free holiday goody bags. In the giving spirit of the season, bring canned goods for the Kāne‘ohe Salvation Army to donate to those in need.

Free, Windward Mall, 46-056 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne‘ohe, windwardmall.com, @windwardmall

Ala Moana Hula Shows

Daily starting on Nov. 29, 5 p.m.

Keiki Hula Shows: Sundays at 1 p.m.

The holiday-themed hula show series kicks off on Black Friday, presenting traditional Hawaiian and classic holiday songs with a snowfall finale. Plus, check out the keiki hula dancers on Sundays.

Free, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

“Gift of Mele” Free Holiday Concert

Friday, Nov. 29, 6 to 8 p.m.

Enjoy the mele of Kimié Miner and more special guests, plus stick around for the chance to win gift cards to International Market Place merchants throughout the show.

Free, International Market Place, Level 1, Queen’s Court, 2330 Kalākaua Ave., shopinternationalmarketplace.com, @intlmktplace

Holiday Art Party

Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, 4 to 9 p.m.

Admire the works of artists The Twins Fine Art, Gabriel Burchman, Greg Creason, Beck Paschoal, Kristine Provenza and Kimo and even get the chance to meet them. There will be music and refreshments as well.

Validated parking, Kaikoa Gallery, 2005 Kalia Road, thekaikoagallery.com, @kaikoagallery

Holiday Performances at Kāhala Mall Center Stage

Nov. 30 to Dec. 22

Various studios, ensembles, bands and hālau hula will take Center Stage to share holiday joy through song and dance.

Free, Kāhala Mall, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., kahalamallcenter.com, @kahalamall

Pajama Party Movies

Arthur Christmas: Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1

The Polar Express: Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Saturday, Dec. 21, and Sunday, Dec. 22

Get in the Christmas spirit with holiday films Arthur Christmas, The Polar Express and Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Movie times vary by theater.

From $14.75, Consolidated Theatres Ward, Kāhala, Kapolei and Mililani, consolidatedtheatres.com, @consolidatedhi

Holiday Wreath Making With Eco Mindful Lei

Saturday, Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, 2 to 4 p.m.

Learn how to make your own holiday wreath using local greenery and flowers. Plus, there will be lei po‘o raffles and more giveaways. At the Nov. 30 workshop, your ticket includes one drink. We will use local greenery, foilage, and flowers to create your own beautiful wreath creation. A portion of the proceeds will support Halau Kahiwahiwa’s efforts to preserve the hula ki‘i art form.

$70, Nov. 30 workshop will be in The Secret Spot in The Laylow, 2299 Kūhiō Ave. Space A, Dec. 7 workshop will be on the beach if the weather permits, ecomindfullei.com, @eco.mindful.lei

Creative Canvas Festive Edition

Saturday, Nov. 30, and Thursday, Dec. 26, 4 p.m.

All materials are provided for this paint-and-take creative workshop, and a local artist will lead the session with a holiday theme.

$25, validated self-parking, Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Elf Scavenger Hunt

Dec. 1–14

The elves return to Ward Village this holiday season—find them for a chance to win a $100 gift card to the store or restaurant of your choice. Take photos of the elves and post them to your social media account to enter. More details and rules online.

Free, Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Holiday Scavenger Hunt at The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

Dec. 1–25, 10 a.m.

Hunt for clues, tackle holiday-themed photo challenges and solve riddles at the Turtle Bay resort to win prizes and treats.

Free for resort guests, $50 for non-guests, The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay, 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, turtlebayresort.com, @ritzcarltonoahuturtlebay

Ho‘okena for the Holidays

Sunday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m.

The Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning Ho‘okena take the stage with Maila Gibson to perform Hawaiian holiday music.

$35–$45, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Festive Ornament Workshop

Monday, Dec. 2, and Monday, Dec. 16, 4 p.m.

All materials are provided for this make-and-take creative workshop, and a local artist will lead the session with a holiday theme.

$25, validated self-parking, Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Three Weeks of Christmas

Elf: Wednesday, Dec. 4, Saturday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 15

It’s a Wonderful Life: Wednesday, Dec. 11

Love Actually: Wednesday, Dec. 18

Watch Christmas classics Elf, It’s a Wonderful Life and Love Actually on the big screen. Movie times vary by theater.

From $14.75, Consolidated Theatres Ward, Kāhala, Kapolei and Mililani, consolidatedtheatres.com, @consolidatedhi

Festive Snow Globe Workshop

Thursday, Dec. 5, and Thursday, Dec. 12, 4 p.m.

All materials are provided for this make-and-take creative workshop, and a local artist will lead the session with a holiday theme.

$25, validated self-parking, Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Aloha Friday Holiday Music Series

Dec. 6, 13 and 20, 5 to 7 p.m.

Stop by the South Shore Market Courtyard on Friday night to catch live holiday music by local artists alongside a light show. See the music lineup online.

Free, Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Merry Christmas to You! With Henry Kapono & Friends

Friday, Dec. 6, 6:30 and 9 p.m.

Join Henry Kapono for a night of joy, laughter and holiday music along with special guests Alx Kawakami and the Henry Kapono Foundation’s (HKF) On the Rise Artists.

$35–$45, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Christmas Spectacular

Dec. 6–22, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Enjoy a snow and light show, take a pic with Santa, drink hot chocolate, make s’mores and decorate a gingerbread house. Plus, don’t miss the musical The Year Christmas Was Almost Canceled in the auditorium below the chapel. This event is cashless—use card or mobile payments.

Free admission, purchase scrips for activities, tickets for the musical are $11.64 to $16.90, Sacred Hearts Academy, 3253 Wai‘alae Ave., moolelostudios.square.site, @moolelo.studios

Santa Saturday Keiki Carnival

Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Head to Kapolei Shopping Center to meet Santa and Rudolph, play keiki carnival games and marvel at a stilt-walker, juggler and other entertainment.

Free, Kapolei Shopping Center, 590 Farrington Hwy., kapoleishopping.com, @kapoleishoppingctr

Letterpress Printing at Cravings Media Open House

Saturday, Dec. 7, 2 to 6 p.m.

Make your own letterpress-printed items at Cravings Media. The designs will be preset, so you just need to pull the lever to print. Light refreshments will be served, and you can also shop more holiday goods.

The following items will be available for printing:

$10 for a vintage handset type poster
$5 for a holiday greeting card
$3 for a holiday coaster

Cravings Media, 547 Halekauwila St., Suite 102, cravingsmedia.com, @findyourcraving

Hapa Holiday Extravaganza

Saturday, Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m.

The Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra presents local-style holiday music with sing-alongs and special guest appearances.

$10.50–$109, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

Gothmass in Waikīkī and Other Femme Fatales

Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, 8:30 p.m.

Conceptualized and directed by Asian Performance PhD student Mariah Massengill, this production explores holiday themes and spirituality through the provocative stories of its performers. It contains mature themes and language.

$5–$10, tickets sold at the box office one hour before the show, Earle Ernst Lab Theatre at Kennedy Theatre 1770 East-West Road, manoa.hawaii.edu, @uhmkennedytheatre

Winter Wreath Making Workshop

Monday, Dec. 9, 4 p.m.

All materials are provided for this make-and-take creative workshop, and a local artist will lead the session with a holiday theme.

$25, validated self-parking, Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Wednesday, Dec. 11, and Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.

See the classic Christmas movie on the big screen accompanied by a live rendition of the score by the  Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra.

$25–$89, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

The DAC Holiday Extravaganza

Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

This two-night event in the heart of Downtown Honolulu will feature music, dance and theater performances, make-and-take workshops, roaming carolers and more. The first 50 guests to check in get free milk and cookies.

Free with RSVP, Downtown Art Center, 1041 Nu‘uanu Ave., downtownarthi.org, @downtownartcenter

12 Days of Christmas at the Sheraton Waikīkī

Dec. 13–24

Discover new holiday delights throughout the 12 Days of Christmas at the Sheraton Waikīkī, including character meet-and-greets, holiday photo booths, dive-in movies and live performances. Plus, head to the beach on Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. to see Santa as he arrives in a canoe.

Free, Sheraton Waikīkī Beach Resort, 2255 Kalākaua Ave., marriott.com, @sheratonwaikiki

Santa’s Secret Workshop

Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 to 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Have holiday fun at the Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center with a workshop and play. The program fee covers one adult per child.

$35 for non-members, $25 for members, Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center, 111 Ohe St., discoverycenterhawaii.org, @hawaiichildrensdiscoverycenter

Waipahu Town Center Christmas Festival

Saturday, Dec. 14, 4 to 8 p.m.

Celebrate the season with local entertainment, delicious food and drinks, shopping small and meeting Santa.

Free, Waipahu Town Center, 94-050 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu, waipahutowncenter.com, @waipahutowncenter

Candlelight: Christmas Special

Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30 and 8:45 p.m.

Enjoy songs from The Nutcracker and more holiday classics in the ambiance of a candlelit room.

$45–$70.50, The Cathedral of St. Andrew, 229 Queen Emma Square, feverup.com

Holiday Celebration at Ward Village

Saturday, Dec. 14, 5 to 7 p.m.

Head to the South Shore Market courtyard for a holiday light show, hot cocoa, treats, music, activities and more.

Free, Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Christmas With the Mākaha Sons

Saturday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.

The Mākaha Sons lead a holiday performance with special guests Darlene Ahuna, Raquel “Rocky” Higa, Robi Kahakalau and more.

$40–$55, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

Ballet Hawai‘i Presents The Nutcracker

Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m.

Ballet Hawai‘i returns with its special rendition of The Nutcracker, set in 1858 in the Kingdom of Hawai‘i.

$50 to $130, Blaisdell Arena, 777 Ward Ave., blaisdellcenter.com, @blaisdellcenter

Holiday Ornament Decorating at The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

Dec. 15, 17, 19, 21 and 24, 10 a.m.

Choose your ornament shape, then spruce it up with all kind of materials at the decorating station.

Free for resort guests, $50 for non-guests, The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay, 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, turtlebayresort.com, @ritzcarltonoahuturtlebay

Frank De Lima Holiday Brunch

Sunday, Dec. 15, 1 p.m.

Enjoy brunch with a side of laughs with beloved local comedian Frank De Lima.

$35–$45, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Sacred Hearts Academy: The Nutcracker

Sunday, Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m.

Sacred Hearts Academy presents the beautiful holiday classic The Nutcracker featuring stunning ballet choreography and timeless music.

$15–$25, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

Christmas in Tahiti

Sunday, Dec. 15, 6:30 and 9 p.m.

Kuana Torres Kahele and his band will perform with guest dancers Theresa and Iokia Ramento.

$35–$45, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Hawaiian Humane Society

Deck the Howls

Kosasa Family Campus at Ho‘opili: Sunday, Dec. 15, 6:30 to 7:10 p.m. and 6:50 to 7:30 p.m.

Mō‘ili‘ili Campus: Monday, Dec. 16, 6:30 to 7:10 p.m. and 6:50 to 7:30 p.m.

Bring your keiki to spend quality time reading to shelter animals. They’ll also get to decorate kennel cards and take home milk and cookies, and there’ll be a hot chocolate bar. Sign up fast since there are only 16 spaces for each time slot.

Free, registration required, Hawaiian Humane Society Kosasa Family Campus at Ho‘opili, 91-1945 Fort Weaver Road, ‘Ewa Beach; Hawaiian Humane Society Mō‘ili‘ili Campus, 2700 Wai‘alae Ave.; hawaiianhumane.org, @hawaiianhumane

Fashion Santa Appearance

Monday, Dec. 16

The internet-famous Fashion Santa, also known as Paul Mason, will appear at various stores throughout Ala Moana Center for meet-and-greets and photos. More details to come.

Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

Chamber Music Hawai‘i Presents HBQ Christmas

Monday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.

The Honolulu Brass Quintet will fill the hall with Christmas cheer and popular seasonal tunes.

$25–$35, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Don McLean Holiday Show

Friday, Dec. 20, 8 p.m.

Don McLean will perform his greatest hits like “American Pie” and “Castles in the Air” alongside festive tunes like “Winter Wonderland” and “White Christmas.”

$49–$99, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

Christmas in Hawai‘i With Kimié Miner

Saturday, Dec. 21, 6:30 and 9 p.m.

Experience the magic of Christmas in Hawai‘i with the Islands’ beloved songbird Kimié Miner.

$35–$45, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Kalani Pe‘a’s Hawaiian Christmas Show

Saturday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Celebrate the warmth and aloha of the season with this three-time Grammy Award-winning artist. This special holiday performance will also include Kumu Hula Olana Ai, Natalie Ai Kamau‘u, Kumu Hula Shelsea Ai, Hālau Lilia Makanoe, Starr Kalāhiki and host Mele Apana.

$45–$100, Hawai‘i Theatre, 1130 Bethel St., hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

Mike Lewis: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Tuesday, Dec. 24, and Wednesday, Dec. 25, 6:30 p.m.

Dive into childhood nostalgia with the Christmas music of the Peanuts performed live.

Family-friendly, $25–$35, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Trains & Trolleys

Photo: Courtesy of Pearlridge Center

Pearlridge Express Holiday Train

Nov. 22 through Dec. 20

Monday to Friday: noon to 7 p.m. (including Black Friday)
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dec. 21 through Jan. 5, 2025

Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

All (keiki) aboard! Watch your little ones’ eyes light up as they ride the custom miniature train across Pearlridge Center Mauka’s festive landscape filled with oversized toys. Taking a ride on Hawai‘i’s only scale-model, fully functioning locomotive has become a holiday tradition for many. Plus, train booklets this year will include a free photo with Santa at the Pearlridge Center Santa Set in Wai Makai. Keep in mind that the train staff will be on break from 2 to 3 p.m. daily.

$6 per ride, $41 10-ride coupon books, keiki must be under 48 inches tall, 98-1005 Moanalua Road, ‘Aiea, pearlridgeonline.com, @pearlridge

Photo: Courtesy of Waikīkī Trolley

Holly Jolly Waikīkī Trolley

Dec. 8–25

Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 6, 7 and 8 p.m
Friday at 6, 7 and 8:30 p.m.

Hop on the trolley at Prince Waikīkī and enjoy a round-trip ride to see the holiday decorations at Honolulu City Lights. The last of the Friday night rides is a little later, so you and your ‘ohana can watch the Waikīkī fireworks before getting on the trolley.

$20 for adults and keiki ages 3 and up, lap children are free, pickup at Prince Waikīkī, 100 Holomoana St., princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

Sunday, Dec. 8, through Monday, Dec. 30, tours depart at 6, 7 and 8 p.m.

Take a joyful 30-minute ride to Honolulu Hale to see Shaka Santa, then spend about an hour exploring all the lights and scenes throughout the area. Reservations are required and can fill up quickly. Tickets also include free cocoa, entry into the Waikīkī Trolley Winter Wonderland and a photo with Santa Claus. A shuttle service from Waikīkī to Winter Wonderland is available.

$35 for adults; $25 for keiki 3 to 11 years old; kids 2 years and younger are free but must sit on an adult’s lap, pickup at the corner of Richards St. and Aloha Tower Dr., holidaylightshi.com, @holidaylightshi

Photo Opportunities

Photo: Courtesy of Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center

Friday, Nov. 15, to Tuesday, Dec. 24

Mondays through Fridays: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturdays: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sundays: noon to 6 p.m.
Nov. 18, 19, 25, 26 and Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10, 4 to 7 p.m.: Pet photos with Santa (cats and dogs only)
Dec. 24: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

From $39.99, no personal cameras allowed, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

International Market Place

Friday, Nov. 29, to Tuesday, Dec. 24

Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Break 3 to 4 p.m.)
Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Break 3 to 4 p.m.)
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Break 3 to 4 p.m.)
Monday, Dec. 23: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Break 3 to 4 p.m.)
Christmas Eve (Tuesday, Dec. 24): 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Break 1 to 2 p.m.)

Check for dedicated times for those with sensory needs and pets. Receive parking validation with your purchase of a photo package.

From $39.99, 2330 Kalākaua Ave., shopinternationalmarketplace.com, @intlmktplace

Photo: Courtesy of Ka Makana Ali‘i

Ka Makana Ali‘i

Nov. 23 to Dec. 29

Nov. 23 to Dec. 22
- Monday to Friday 2 to 7 p.m.
- Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Break 2 to 3 p.m.)
- Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Break 2 to 3 p.m.)
- Black Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Break 2 to 3 p.m.)
Dec. 23–29: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Break 2 to 3 p.m.)
Closed Dec. 25

Visit Santa in his sleigh between Zales and Sephora. Mrs. Clause will also be available for photos on weekdays. Walk-ins accepted, but reservations are recommended.

From $35, 91-5431 Kapolei Pkwy, Kapolei, kamakanaalii.com, @kamakanaalii

Photo: Courtesy of Royal Hawaiian Center

Royal Hawaiian Center

Photos available every Wednesday and Saturday, Nov. 27 to Dec. 21, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Guests will receive a Royal Santa Savings Pass, while keiki can enjoy free peppermint cookies from Honolulu Cookie Company. Come early at 5 p.m. to catch the holiday performance.

Free, The Royal Grove, 2201 Kalākaua Ave., royalhawaiiancenter.com, @royalhwnctr

The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

Dec. 22–24

Resort guests are invited to take a photo with Santa shot by Pacific Dream Photography.

Free for resort guests, 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, turtlebayresort.com, @ritzcarltonoahuturtlebay

Holiday Drives

Helping Hands Hawai‘i Wishing Trees

Nov. 11 to Nov. 29: Starbucks

Ke‘eaumoku
Ala Moana ‘Ewa Wing
Ala Moana Macy’s
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
Kuhio & Seaside
Marriott Lobby
Marriott Ohua
Parkshore
Kapahulu
Kāhala Mall Interior
Kāhala Mall Drive Thru

Nov. 23 to Dec. 1: St. John Apostle & Evangelist Catholic Church

Nov. 18 to Dec. 6: Koko Marina Center

Nov. 28 to Dec. 8: Monkeypod Kitchen Ko Olina

Nov. 18 to Dec. 12: Monkeypod Kitchen Waikīkī

Nov. 18 to Dec. 14: Moku Kitchen

Take an ornament from a Wishing Tree at one of the above participating locations, fulfill the wish written on it, then bring the requested gift back to where you picked up the ornament.

helpinghandshawaii.org, @helpinghandshawaii

Ward Village

Toys for Tots – Nov. 15 to Dec. 8

Drop off new, unwrapped toys at the donation bins in South Shore Market or Ward Centre.

Senior Giving Tree – Nov. 22 to Dec. 15

In partnership with Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, Ward Village has set up Giving Trees at Logos Bookstore, Whole Foods Market and TJ Maxx. Select an ornament to fulfill the wish of a senior in need.

Ward Village, 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Photo: Courtesy of Goodwill Hawai‘i

Goodwill Hawai‘i’s Goods Giving Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. to noon

Drive ongoing through Jan. 5, 2025

Clear out your storage spaces and take your donations to the Goodwill Hawai‘i locations in Kapolei, Kaimukī and Windward City Shopping Center on Saturday, Nov. 23, for a special event. To thank donors, Goodwill will give away $6,500 in Aloha Gas cards, Car Wash 808 Express tickets and Popeyes Hawai‘i promo cards (while supplies last) across those locations, plus there’ll be free cookies from Diamond Bakery Hawai‘i and local entertainment. Through Jan. 5, 2025, anyone who donates to a Goodwill on O‘ahu or Hawai‘i Island will receive a 10% off Popeyes coupon.

Multiple locations, goodwillhawaii.org, @goodwill_hawaii

Your Guide to the Perfect Thanksgiving Weekend in Honolulu: Nov. 28–Dec. 4, 2024

Laura Dornbush — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 18:30:47 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of International Market Place

Gift of Mele Concert

Friday, Nov. 29, 6 to 8 p.m.

Get in the holiday spirit with a free concert featuring award-winning local artist Kimié Miner and some special guests. You’ll also have a chance to win gift cards to International Market Place stores and restaurants throughout the show.

Free, family-friendly, International Market Place, Level 1, Queen’s Court, 2330 Kalākaua Ave., shopinternationalmarketplace.com, @intlmktplace

Photo: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

Kahuku Turkey Trot & Triathlon at Turtle Bay

Turkey Trot: Thursday, Nov. 28, 7 a.m.

Triathlon: Saturday, Nov. 30, 6:45 a.m.

Plan some exercise this weekend between feasting and shopping. Take in gorgeous coastline views around the Turtle Bay Resort from whichever course you choose: the 5K fun-run, youth triathlon or adult sprint triathlon.

Registration ranges from $55 to $205, The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay, 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., turtlebaytriathlon.com, @hitriseries

Photo: Credit Kenna Reed

Keep It Kaimukī Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrate Small Business Saturday by scoring deals and discounts at more than 30 participating local businesses. Jump aboard the free trolleys to shop the neighborhood, plus enjoy the outdoor market at Ali‘iolani Elementary School with live entertainment, a petting zoo and a larger-than-life snow globe photo op.

Free, family- and pet-friendly, Ali‘iolani Elementary School and throughout the Kaimukī business district, free parking at Sacred Hearts Academy, keepitkaimuki.com, @keepitkaimuki

Kapolei City Lights Opening Night

Saturday, Nov. 30, 5 to 9 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season in Leeward O‘ahu with an illuminated parade, rocking block party and mayor’s tree lighting ceremony. The parade starts at 6 p.m. from Kapolei High School, ending at Kapolei Hale. The festive lights, trees and displays will be on view through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

Free, family-friendly, Kapolei Hale, 1000 Uluohia St., honolulu.gov, @honolulu_parks

Photo: Courtesy of The Friends of ‘Iolani Palace

Plan Ahead: Queen Kapi‘olani Evening Tours at ‘Iolani Palace

Saturday, Dec. 28, and Sunday, Dec. 29, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Book your tickets now for these exclusive nighttime tours that are guaranteed to sell out. You’ll step back into the 19th century to experience what it might have been like to attend a royal holiday soiree with performances by Chamber Music Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i Opera Theatre, Ku‘uipo Kumukahi and more.

$50 adult, $25 children, free for keiki age 5 and under, 364 South King St., iolanipalace.org, @iolanipalacehi

Your Insider Guide to Honolulu City Lights

Laura Dornbush — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 18:30:11 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of City and County of Honolulu

This annual month-long celebration returns in a big way this year to honor its 40th anniversary. And the best news is it’s always free to enjoy. In fact, the festivities are a gift to the community by the City and County of Honolulu in partnership with Friends of Honolulu City Lights—a tradition that started in 1985 by Mayor Frank F. Fasi.

Here is everything you need to know about this year’s Honolulu City Lights, from where to snap the best family photos to when to bring keiki to meet Santa.

Click to the information you want to explore:

What It Is

The grounds of Honolulu Hale and the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center transform into a winter wonderland with holiday displays, twinkling lights and special events. Gaze in awe at the 55-foot Cook Pine tree fronting City Hall, say hi to the giant Shaka Santa and Tūtū Mele figures, browse the city department Christmas trees and grab a treat from local food vendors.

New this year, wander through enhanced decorations and activations, including 250 feet of lighted tunnels, 50 illuminated trees, a keiki train ride and festive motifs lining Alapa‘i and Beretania Streets. The new displays were donated by Mike Gangloff of Show Aloha Land and his sponsors.

Photo: Courtesy of City and County of Honolulu

When and Where

Following the Opening Night celebration on Saturday, Dec. 7, Honolulu City Lights will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds and will run through Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Parking

Free public parking is available at the Frank F. Fasi Municipal lot, with entry from the left lane of Beretania Street just past Alapa‘i Street. If you wish to view the parade in Chinatown, several parking lots are in the area; however, you will need to park before the parade-related street closures start (approximately 5 p.m.). Also, you may have to wait for the streets to re-open to exit certain lots.

Photo: Credit Ron Slauson

Opening Night

On Saturday, Dec. 7, the celebration kicks off at 4 p.m. with a block party featuring local food vendors along Punchbowl Street. The Public Workers’ Electric Light Parade begins at 6:15 p.m. down King Street from River Street to Kawaiaha‘o Street. As the parade passes Honolulu Hale, Mayor Rick Blangiardi will illuminate the holiday tree and lights decorating the grounds.

The parade features 57 units with marchers, floats, vehicles and bands. It will also be live broadcast on ‘Ōlelo 54, so tune in if you want to skip the crowds. Heads-up: there will be street closures—in the past, routes near the parade in Chinatown and Downtown were closed from 5 p.m.

The holiday festivities and merriment continue with a performance by Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner Raiatea Helm and free photos with Santa in the Mission Memorial Auditorium.

Photo: Credit Ron Slauson

Here’s the schedule for the evening:

Food booths open at 4 p.m. on Punchbowl Street
Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at Honolulu Hale starts at 6 p.m.
Public Workers Electric Light Parade beginning at ‘A‘ala Park at 6:15 p.m.
Performance by Raiatea Helm, time to be announced
Free photos with Santa 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Mission Memorial Auditorium

Opening Night Food

On opening night, food booths will be open from 4 p.m. on Punchbowl Street. Vendors include:

AlohaMade Bites
Asato Family Shop
Corn Onoz Hawai‘i
Da Hub/Kealoha Seafoods
Dick’s Lechon
Fine Time Shave Ice
Linaka’s Catering
Olay’s Thai Food Express
Sausage Fest Hawai‘i
Sugah Daddeh’s Kane Juice
Sushi King dba Makanai
Trydis
Waimanalo Country Farms

Hawaiian Mission Houses’ Family Night

Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 to 9 p.m.

Get a prime viewing spot of the opening night parade from the Hawaiian Mission Houses (553 S. King St.), which is also hosting 19th century games and candle-making. Food will be sold onsite, or you can bring your own. Limited seating will be available, but you can also set up your own chairs and mats on the lawn. Tickets are $10.

Photo: Credit Ron Slauson

Mark These Dates for the Rest of December

Holiday Wreath Contest Exhibition

Monday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., submit your entry

Saturday, Dec. 7, to Tuesday, Dec. 31., 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., entries on display in the Lane Gallery at Honolulu Hale

The City Department Tree Exhibition

Saturday, Dec. 7, to Tuesday, Dec. 31., 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Available to view in Honolulu Hale

Celtic Pipes Performance

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.

In front of Honolulu Hale

Milk & Cookie Night

Saturday, Dec. 21, 6 to 9 p.m.

Free, in front of Honolulu Hale, while supplies last

Photo: Credit Ron Slauson

Tips

Get your 2024 keepsake ornament! Each year, there are new designs which are sold as a fundraiser. Buy them at the event grounds, online or at all O‘ahu Macy’s stores and First Hawaiian Bank branches.
To avoid parade crowds, view the procession from Chinatown or Downtown. The area in front of Honolulu Hale will be packed! Note, bands will stop performing after they pass Honolulu Hale, so you’ll want to be positioned before Kawaiaha‘o Street.
Weekday evenings are less busy than weekends, so you’ll have a better chance of getting successful family photos in front of the displays. You could also visit during the day, but won’t get the full effect of the lights.
Dress in holiday attire and bring light-up toys, glow sticks and jingle bells for a full festive experience.
Waikīkī Trolley offers open-air bus rides ($35 adult, $25 keiki) to view the downtown lights and Honolulu City Lights, departing from Aloha Tower.

Free, Honolulu City Lights, Honolulu Hale, 530 S. King St., Dec. 7–31, opening night on Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 to 10 p.m., honolulucitylights.org, @friendshonolulucitylights

Can’t-Miss Local Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs on O‘ahu

Brie Thalmann — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 18:30:12 +0000

Photo: Vanessa Di Lullo

In addition to Black Friday and Small Business Saturday deals at retailers across the island, local craft fairs and holiday markets ramp up in November and December. Expect to find wares from across the state, from Native Hawaiian-owned and mom-run brands, local snack companies, apparel, jewelry and much more. Skip the big-box retailers and online marketplaces to keep your dollars in Hawai‘i and support the small makers who pour their hearts into every individual piece. Happy shopping!

Hawai‘i Holiday Craft and Gift Fair

One of the biggest draws for this event, other than the more than 200 vendors, is the chance to win one of five 65-inch TVs that will be given away.

When & Where:

Nov. 1, 2–7 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall
Nov. 2, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall
Nov. 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall

Admission:

$7 general admission. Get $2 off by downloading the coupon here.
Free for military families and keiki under 7

hawaiiholidayfair.com, @hawaiiholidayfair

Ali‘iōlani Craft Fair

This fundraiser for Ali‘iōlani Elementary School features dozens of vendors and live entertainment from Deven Camat.

When & Where:

Nov. 2, 8 a.m.–2 p.m., Ali‘iōlani Elementary School
Dec. 7, 8 a.m.–2 p.m., Ali‘iōlani Elementary School

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

808 Craft and Gift Fairs

Some of the biggest outdoor craft fairs offer trendy handmade items, accessories, unique gifts and food.

When & Where:

Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Kaimukī High School
Nov. 3, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Pearl City Shopping Center, upstairs near Bank of Hawai‘i/McDonald’s and downstairs near Dave’s Ice Cream
Nov. 16, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Koko Marina Center
Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Kalani High School
Dec. 7, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Kaimukī High School
Dec. 21, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Koko Marina Center

Admission: Free

808craftandgiftfairs.com, @808craftandgiftfairshawaii

Mālama Hawai‘i Makers Market

Created to mālama Hawai‘i’s small local businesses, this pop-up features local artists, makers and designers, plus live music and food and drink vendors.

When & Where:

Nov. 2, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Koko Head Elementary School
Nov. 9, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Nov. 16, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Waialua Community Association, Hale‘iwa
Nov. 30, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Dec. 7, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Koko Head Elementary School
Dec. 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Dec. 15, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2

Admission: Free

malamahawaiimarket.com, @malamahawaiimarket

The Mom Made Market

Dozens of mom-made businesses return to Kāhala Mall for two days of local shopping. Look for clothing, jewelry, stickers, totes, bedding and more. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Make Lemonade Project.

When & Where:

Nov. 2, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Kāhala Mall
Nov. 3, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Kāhala Mall

Admission: Free

@themommademarkethawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Our Kaka‘ako

Honolulu Night Market

The popular Kaka‘ako block party returns with an evening filled with entertainment, delicious food truck eats and a holiday market.

When & Where: Nov. 2, 5–10 p.m., Our Kaka‘ako, Keawe, Auahi and Coral streets, plus The Barn at Salt at Our Kaka‘ako

Admission: Free

ourkakaako.com, @hnlnightmarket

Koko Marina Makers Market

Expect crafters who offer things like press-on nails, gemstone and ocean-inspired jewelry, plus entertainment, prizes and giveaways throughout the day.

When & Where:

Nov. 3, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Koko Marina Center
Nov. 17, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Koko Marina Center
Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Koko Marina Center
Dec. 15, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Koko Marina Center

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Kalama Beach Club’s 16th Annual Artisan Fair

The historic clubhouse will host 40 local vendors once again on the property in Kailua, with plenty of free parking.

When & Where: Nov. 9, 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Kalama Beach Club, Kailua

Admission: Free

kalamabeachclub.com, @kalamabeachclub

Photos: Mahina Choy-Ellis

Ho‘omau Market

Founded by local label Mahina Made, this pop-up market was designed to support creators, artists and entrepreneurs who perpetuate Hawaiian culture and language. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Native Hawaiian nonprofits and organizations. Kūpuna over 65 are welcome to shop early on Sunday at 9 a.m. for a less crowded experience.

When & Where:

Nov. 9, 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Hawai‘i Convention Center, Kalākaua Ballrooms
Nov. 10, 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Hawai‘i Convention Center, Kalākaua Ballrooms

Admission:

$5 for general admission
$50 for VIP, including early access, discounts and a Punky Aloha tote
Free for ages 12 and younger

hoomaumarket.com, @hoomaumarket

Mele Kalikimaka Gift Fair

Expect treats from Aloha Crisps, Mixed by Mare, Ugly Stix and more, plus apparel, jewelry and other gift items. There will be entertainment from 12:30–1:30 p.m.

When & Where: Nov. 9, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Ka Makana Ali‘i

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Island Crafters Market

Outside of Target, find baby items, stationery, snacks, photography prints, pet goods and more.

When & Where:

Nov. 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Nov. 16, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Nov. 24, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Dec. 8, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2
Dec. 22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Ala Moana Center, Mauka Wing, Level 2

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Ka‘ala Winter Fair

This annual fair boasts music, food, plants, gifts, games, crafts and treats for everyone on your list.

When & Where: Nov. 16, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Ka‘ala Elementary School, Wahiawā

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

McKinley High School Craft Fairs

To support McKinley’s chorus and theater group, students will be selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts among craft, food, plant and produce vendors in November. Expect prize giveaways, too. December’s event is a little different and benefits the band and orchestra.

When & Where:

Nov. 16, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., McKinley High School
Dec. 8, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., McKinley High School

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Crossroads Courtyard Fall Fair

Church of the Crossroads joins up with Waiwai Collective, Hawai‘i Potters’ Guild and others for a rummage sale, baked goods, crafts, ceramics, music and hula.

When & Where: Nov. 16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Church of the Crossroads

Admission: Free

churchofthecrossroadshawaii.org

Lanikai Craft Fair

More than 80 vendors come together to raise money to maintain Lanikai Park and beach access points in the neighborhood.

When & Where: Nov. 23, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Lanikai Park

Admission: Free

lanikaiassociation.org, @lanikaiassociation

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Home Market

Aloha Home Market

Created by Hawai‘i real estate agent Danielle Sherman, Aloha Home Market features home finds, furniture, art, jewelry and more, along with food and live music. There will be locally made items at each market, but come by Nov. 24 or Dec. 22 for pet adoptions in partnership with the Hawaiian Humane Society. There will also be a keiki clothing swap on Nov. 24 and a photo booth with Santa on Dec. 1.

When & Where:

Nov. 24, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., 340 Uluniu St., Kailua
Dec. 1, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., 340 Uluniu St., Kailua
Dec. 8, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., 340 Uluniu St., Kailua
Dec. 15, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., 340 Uluniu St., Kailua
Dec. 22, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., 340 Uluniu St., Kailua

Admission: Free

alohahomemarket.com, @alohahomemarket

Quirky Crafters’ Winter Mini Charity Craft Show

Unique gifts help raise money for nonprofits.

When & Where: Nov. 24, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Downtown Art Center

Admission: Free

eventbrite.com, @quirkycrafters808

Holiday Gift Fair

In addition to buying crafts for others, consider bringing new and unwrapped toys, clothes and gift cards for homeless keiki.

When & Where:

Nov. 29, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center
Nov. 30, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center
Dec. 1, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Photo: Courtesy of Islandwide Expos

35th Islandwide Christmas Crafts & Food Expo

More than 200 craft and food vendors draw upward of 20,000 attendees to this expo that started back in 1987. Come for the shopping, keiki activities, entertainment, contests, giveaways and more.

When & Where:

Nov. 29, 4–9 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall
Nov. 30, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall
Dec. 1, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall

Admission:

$8 general
$6 seniors and military with ID
Free for 12 and under
Free same-day admission for Jo Koy performance ticketholders

islandwideexpos.com, @islandwideexpos

53rd Annual Holiday Craft Fair

Find made-in-Hawai‘i gifts such as glass artwork, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, artistic silk scarves, photography and more. More than 40 vendors will participate in Honolulu’s oldest craft fair.

When & Where: Nov. 30, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m., Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives

Admission: Free

missionhouses.org, @hawaiian_mission_houses

Home for the Holidays

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace goes with a holiday theme on these select dates. In addition to more than 400 local businesses, expect live music, a beer garden and a giveaway from Alaska Airlines when you donate a new toy during these times.

When & Where:

Nov. 30, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Aloha Stadium section 8B
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Aloha Stadium section 8B
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Aloha Stadium section 8B
Dec. 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Aloha Stadium section 8B

Admission:

$2 general (ages 12 and up, cash only)
$1 kama‘āina and active military (cash only)
Free for under 12

alohastadium.hawaii.gov, @alohastadiumhi

Photo: Kenna Reed

Keep It Kaimukī Saturday Maker’s Mart

For the second time, the festival will include a pop-up holiday market at Ali‘iōlani Elementary School where you can snag goodies from 30-plus food and retail vendors, plus attend a petting zoo and take photos with a giant snow globe.

When: Nov. 30, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Ali‘iōlani Elementary School

Admission: Free

keepitkaimuki.com, @keepitkaimuki

Fourth Annual Holiday Art Fair

The Windward Artists Guild and Association of Hawai‘i Artists gather many types of art, from painting and ceramics to photography and mixed media, plus gift items such as prints, cards, ornaments and T-shirts. Meet the artists at receptions on Dec. 6 and 27 from 5 to 8 p.m.

When & Where: Dec. 4–28, open Tuesday through Saturday, noon–5 p.m., extended hours on Dec. 13 and 14, The Arts at Marks Garage

Admission: Free

windwardartistsguild.org, @windwardartistsguild and associationhawaiiartists.com, @associationofhawaiiartists

Super Saturday Hawai‘i Winter Festival

Shop for the anime and K-pop fans in your life with collectibles, games and plenty of entertainment.

When & Where: Dec. 7, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Hawai‘i Convention Center

Admission: $15–$20

supersaturdayhawaii.com, @supersaturdayhi

A Pinch of Salt

The hub of Kaka‘ako hosts a one-day shopping event with plenty of local designers.

When & Where: Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Salt at Our Kaka‘ako

Admission: Free admission

saltatkakaako.com, @saltourkakaako

Holiday Pop-Up Market

INPEACE, the Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture, hosts its second annual market in Kapolei in collaboration with HI Street Grindz & Crafts Fest. Expect fun shopping, live music and food.

When & Where: Dec. 7, 4–8 p.m., INPEACE Center for Entrepreneurship

Admission: Free admission

inpeace.org, @inpeacehawaii

Photos: Yoshi Tanaka

Sunshine People Market

Curated by the team behind local womenswear boutique Here, this holiday market brings together independent makers, designers and collectors.

When: Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., The Barn at Salt at Our Kaka‘ako

Admission: Will be available for purchase online

$5 for entry only
$20 for entry and a Sunshine People Market x Baggu tote ($23 value)

100% of proceeds from entry fees will be donated to local charities and nonprofits.

here-shop-here.com, @sunshinepeoplemarket

Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace

Pacific Expos and Special Events Hawai‘i bring hundreds of vendors together with their locally made unique wares for the eighth year. There will also be a pet zone (as long as your pet is leashed) and a petting zoo, plus pony rides.

When & Where:

Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall
Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Blaisdell Exhibition Hall

Admission: $6 for general admission; $4 for ages 60 and up, students and military with ID; free for keiki 12 years and younger with a paying adult

melekalikimakamarketplace.com

Mahalo I Kau Kumu Holiday Gift Fair

Say thank you to the teachers in your keiki’s life by donating school supplies at this fair, where you’ll also be able to find plenty of stocking stuffers.

When & Where: Dec. 14, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Ka Makana Ali‘i

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Kūkolu Holiday Market

Kūkolu, an Indigenous business incubator, hosts its second annual holiday market that showcases Native Hawaiian and Indigenous artisans. The organization also recently celebrated the grand opening of its retail pop-up at Salt for the holidays, featuring brands such as Punky Aloha, Hooked Up Hawai‘i, Hualalei Designs and Here in the Sun.

When & Where: Dec. 13, noon to 8 p.m., the Barn at Salt at Our Kaka‘ako

Admission: Free

kukolu.org, @kukoluorg

Holiday Pop-Up Shop

Put off your shopping until the final weekend before Christmas? You can still buy from local makers such as Ho‘onani Love and Wick’d Essentials.

When & Where:

Dec. 18–20, 4–9 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center
Dec. 21–22, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center
Dec. 23, 4–9 p.m., former Toys R Us building at Pearlridge Center

Admission: Free

islandcraftfairs.org, @islandcraftfairs

Merimeri Market

This new market features Fishcake’s vendors: Plant Bar, Prcd by Brandi, Fishschool, Beachcake Ceramics, Kailah Ogawa, Mabuhaylicious, Pua Blooms, Ajitama Musubi and more.

When & Where:

Dec. 21, 5:30–9:30 p.m., Fishcake

Admission: Free

fishcake.us, @fishcakehawaii

15 Fun Group Activities to Do with Visiting Friends and Family This Holiday Season

Katrina Valcourt — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 18:30:11 +0000

Every year when the holidays roll around, I’m inundated with “where should we eat” and “what should we do” texts from friends who will be in town. And while I love a good brunch or dinner out, it’s the unique and unexpected activities that leave the deepest impressions. Here are some ideas for entertaining everyone on your calendar (and most of them aren’t Christmas-related!).

Photo: Courtesy of Magical Mystery Show

Watch a Magic Show

Grab your friends for an intimate and interactive Magical Mystery Show reminiscent of the Victorian era at the Hilton Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa. A rotating series of performers means you can get a different experience each time (see the dates for each magician online).

$99 general admission, $89 for kama‘āina with ID, $59 for keiki age 4–12, keiki under 4 free, $169 for VIPs, 2500 Kūhiō Ave., hotel-magic.com, @themagicalmysteryshow

Make Wreaths Up in the Mountains

What could be more picturesque than crafting wreaths from foraged invasives—including Christmas berry, Norfolk pine and ironwood—at a cabin in the misty mountains of Pālehua? Join Island-Boy and Pua Hana for a workshop with live holiday music by Clare Nelson, plus refreshments. Hurry—these fill up, with only Dec. 16 and 17 available.

$175, palehua.org, @ossipoffcabin

Photo: Courtesy of Andrea Lee

Try an Escape Room

Our roundup of six kid-friendly escape rooms includes typical games as well as virtual reality and holiday themes. Note: Room With a Clue moved to a new location at 1023 Pensacola St., Suite G (second floor). Our team was able to collect 40 gingerbread tokens through solving puzzles and answering trivia questions (see our experience in this reel). How many can you find?

Enter the Smash Lab

Holidays got you stressed? Take it out on old appliances, dishes and furniture at Break’N Anger, Honolulu’s only rage room. There’s also a room where you can splatter everything with paint.

From $78.75, 1008-A Kawaiaha‘o St., (808) 888-2630, breaknanger.com, @breaknanger

Go On a Rum Tour

Kō Hana Rum’s tours are a great way to go go out for a drink and learn about local ag. Choose from tours of either the distillery or the farm tour; both end with a classic rum flight, which can be upgraded to an aged rum flight for $15.

92-1770 Kunia Road, #227, Kunia, (808) 649-0830, kohanarum.com, @kohanarum

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

See All the Lights

Honolulu Hale and the surrounding area will be extra festive this year for its 40^th anniversary, thanks in part to 250 feet of light tunnels donated by Show Aloha Land. There’s also a new immersive holiday experience at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, ’Twas the Light Before Christmas, that you won’t want to miss.

Honolulu City Lights, Honolulu Hale, 530 S. King St., honolulucitylights.org, @friendshonolulucitylights

’Twas the Light Before Christmas, Hawai‘i Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Ave., alohaimmersive.com, @twas.honolulu

Photo: Courtesy of Wai Kai

Try an Obstacle Course

Whether zip lining up in the trees or dashing across floating steps in a lagoon, obstacle courses can help you burn off some of those holiday cookies. Select from three zip line adventures at Coral Crater Adventure Park (one includes s’mores!), or try an all-day pass at Wai Kai AquaVenture.

Coral Crater Adventure Park, 91-1780 Midway St., Kapolei, (808) 626-5773, coralcrater.com, @coralcrater

The LineUp at Wai Kai, 91-1621 Keone‘ula Blvd., ‘Ewa Beach, (808) 515-7873, waikai.com, @waikailineup

Photo: Laura Dornbush

Go Ice Skating

Make it feel like the holidays up north by slipping on a sweater and lacing up your skates at Ice Palace Hawai‘i. Find the public skate calendar online (it’s open on Christmas!).

$18, 4510 Salt Lake Blvd., (808) 487-9921, icepalacehawaii.com, @icepalacehawaii

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Chuck an Ax

When we first went to Blade & Timber in 2019, it didn’t yet serve alcohol. That’s changed now that it relocated to Keawe Street. Lanes can accommodate up to four or six people each, but if you go with a bigger group, you can try synchronized ax-throwing in neighboring lanes.

506 Keawe St., (808) 208-1709, bladeandtimber.com, @bladeandtimber

Photo: Erik Kabik

See Cirque du Soleil’s New Show

‘Auana debuts at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel Dec. 5. It’s the first Cirque residency in Hawai‘i, with shows at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. most nights. Even if you’ve seen other Cirque shows, you’ll want to check out this Hawai‘i-inspired one.

From $85, 2300 Kalākaua Ave., cirquedusoleil.com, @cirquedusoleil.auana

Photo: David Croxford

Tour an Estate

Doris Duke’s private residence turned museum, Shangri La, is still a hidden gem for many, in part because walk-ins aren’t allowed. Check out the museum of Islamic art, culture and design with a tour organized by (and beginning at) the Honolulu Museum of Art. Tickets will be released Dec. 4 at 10 a.m. for the next quarter.

shangrilahawaii.org, @hi_shangrila

SEE ALSO: She’s a Force

Take a Cooking Class

Prep for the new year by learning how to make ozoni with Margotto Hawai‘i chef Shiori Okuya at Cookspace Hawai‘i. Monthly classes since its return have featured Raíz Tortillas and Istanbul Hawai‘i. This next one, Dec. 8, is great for small groups who want to get hands-on (and taste ozoni and truffle mochi as you go).

Bloomingdale’s Ala Moana, third floor, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., cookspacehi.com, @cookspacehawaii

SEE ALSO: CookSpace Hawai‘i Is Back!

Volunteer

For many, showing gratitude is the reason for the season. Reserving time to help those in need or getting more involved in your community can be a new holiday tradition for your family, whether you’re cleaning up a beach or helping deliver food. One way to find a nonprofit you’re interested in helping is through the Give Big Hawai‘i portal, where you can also donate.

givebighawaii.com

Photo: Andrea Lee

Make Gifts for Each Other

Bring friends to a Gem Studio jewelry-making workshop. Rather than make something for yourself, exchange rings with each other at the end.

International Market Place, 2330 Kalākaua Ave., thegemstudio.com, @gemstudio.hawaii

SEE ALSO: 40 Amazing Things to Do

Play Pub Trivia

Join forces to take down other teams at Geeks Who Drink trivia nights at Lanikai Brewing Co. and Aloha Beer Co.

geekswhodrink.com, @geekswhodrink

Find more holiday events in our Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings on O‘ahu.

Holiday Crafts and Recipes to Try with Your Family This Year

Honolulu Family Team — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:30:11 +0000

The holidays are a time for giving and spending time with loved ones. But how to fill that time? We’ve rounded up tons of holiday crafts and recipes to keep kids who are out of school busy with activities.

Click to the holiday you want to explore:

Thanksgiving

Crafts

Photo: Michelle Aucello

Recipes

Photo: Michelle Aucello

Christmas

Crafts

Photo: Karen DB Photography

Recipes

Photo: David Croxford

New Year’s

Crafts

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Recipes

Make It With the Family: Ring In the New Year with New Year’s Eve Bread

Your Guide to the Perfect Weekend in Honolulu: Nov. 21–27, 2024

Laura Dornbush — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:30:36 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Carl Meyer

Science Reveals the Secret Lives of Sharks Lecture

Thursday, Nov. 21, 6 to 7 p.m.

Find out why sharks behave the way they do, how they survive and what we can do to coexist with them. Dr. Carl Meyer, a University of Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology researcher, tells all in his talk as part of the Friends of the Waikīkī Aquarium’s Tim Guard Distinguished Lecture Series.

Free, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Art Building, 2535 McCarthy Mall, Room 132, fowaquarium.org

Photo: Courtesy of Goodwill Hawai‘i

Goods Giving Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. to noon

Here’s your sign to clean out your closet and cabinets before the holidays. Donate pre-loved clothing and household items at one of three Goodwill Hawai‘i drop-off locations on Saturday morning. In return, they’re giving away $6,500 in Aloha Gas cards, Car Wash 808 Express tickets, Popeyes Hawai‘i promo cards and Diamond Bakery cookies, while supplies last.

Free; Kaimukī Store & Donation Center, 3650 Waialae Ave.; Kapolei Store & Donation Center, 2140 Lauwiliwili St.; Windward City Shopping Center Donation Center, 45-480 Kāne‘ohe Bay Dr. (near Starbucks); goodwillhawaii.org, @goodwill_hawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Hō‘ikeākea Gallery

The Swell Is Coming: Ke Hō‘ea Nei Ka Nalu

Saturday, Nov. 23, through Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Explore the evolution of global surf art culture at this new exhibit featuring contributions by 19 artists from Hawai‘i and around the world, including Elyse Butler, Mark Cunningham, Wayne Levin and John Severson. Meet and mingle with artists and community members at the opening reception on Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m.

Free admission, Hō‘ikeākea Gallery, Leeward Community College, Pu‘uloa Campus, 96-045 Ala ‘Ike, Pearl City, leeward.hawaii.edu, @hoikeakeagallery

Dine, Art, Shop, Love Honolulu Fest

Saturday, Nov. 23, 2 to 9 p.m.

Celebrate all Chinatown has to offer and support local businesses. Stroll down pedestrian-only Bethel Street, see performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band and feature films by NMG at Sun Yat-Sen Park and Hawai‘i Theatre, watch fashion shows from local designers at the Downtown Art Center, score discounts at select retailers and grab a bite at neighborhood restaurants.

Free, family-friendly, Bethel St., Nu‘uanu Ave., Smith St., Pauahi St., Hotel St. and King St. in Chinatown, free parking available at the former Walmart building, 36 S. King St. (entrance on Bethel St.), revitalizeoahu.org, @oer.honolulu

Photo: Getty Images, PetrStransky; composited by Christine Labrador

Honolulu Noir Launch Party

Saturday, Nov. 23, 3 to 5 p.m.

Step into the dark side of O‘ahu with this new short story anthology by 13 writers, including Chang Apana, the Native Hawaiian/Chinese real-life cop who was the inspiration for the fictional Charlie Chan character. Talk story with several of the authors and hear excerpts of the collection.

Free, Da Shop: Books + Curiosities, 3565 Harding Ave., dashophnl.com, @dashophnl

Where to Get Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Deals on O‘ahu

Brie Thalmann — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:30:11 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images, AquaArts Studio

Cue Mariah Carey’s “It’s tiii-mmme!” The biggest shopping weekend of the year is upon us once again! And as usual we, your holiday elves at HONOLULU Magazine, are here to help with a cheat sheet for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday shopping on O‘ahu.

You’ll want to save this page—bookmark it, screenshot it, heck, go old-school and print it out—because we’ve got the scoop on all the amazing deals happening at local shopping malls, indie boutiques and neighborhood events. And make sure to check back as we’ll be updating this list as new promotions roll in.

Standalone & Online-Only Boutiques

Small indie boutiques (not already included in any of the below centers or events) and local brands that don’t have physical storefronts

Shopping Centers

Neighborhood Shopping Events

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Standalone & Online-Only Boutiques

Acacia – up to 70% off colorways and styles from 2024 through Dec. 2, acacia.co
A La Maison by Manyu Flowers – on Nov. 29 get 25% off all items; special offer on matcha and hojica
Allison Izu – up to 70% off select styles and an extra 25% off when you buy 2-plus of any style sitewide, allisonizu.com
Aloha de Mele – Nov. 29 to Dec. 2 get 20% off pareos, towels, bucket hats and greeting cards; 25% off art prints and canvases; 30% off pillow cases, alohademele.com
Aloha Xchng – 50% off sitewide, alohaxchng.com
Aloha Got Soul – in-store discounts on new and used vinyl, CDs, tapes and Hawaiian vinyl on Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Drip Café pop-up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; AGS merchandise on sale, AGS test pressings (limited stock); new Mix Plate compilation vinyl available; online specials, alohagotsoul.com
Alohiwai – Nov. 29 at 8 a.m. through Dec. 1 get 30% to 70% off, excluding ‘Uala and ‘Opihi, alohiwai.com
Arlie Glass – 25% off Pua Vases; 20% off Crown Flower Collection and Blue Jade Collection; 10% off Lei Shadow Boxes; buy four get one free for all single Pua; through Dec. 1, arlie-glass.com
Ava + Oliver – 25% off sitewide through Thanksgiving weekend; some exclusions apply, shopavaoliver.com
Dolkii – grand opening of the Dolkii Holiday Pop-Up Shop at Ten Tomorrow happening Nov. 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; shop in-store promos, new arrivals and an exclusive Le Kaimukī Collection
Fishcake Hawai‘i – up to 50% off in-store on Nov. 29
HoMA Shop – 10% off all merchandise and Seeker Level museum members receive an additional 10% Nov. 29 to Dec. 1
Honolulu Pawn Shop – 25% off in-store and online on Nov. 29, honolulupawnshop.com
Izzy & Luke – 20% off Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, some exclusions apply; launch of new Izzy & Luke T-shirt design and hoodies, izzyandluke.com
Jana Lam – Rainbow Week Sale: up to 40% off online from 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 23 through midnight on Dec. 1 and in-store Nov. 25 to Nov. 27
Ka‘imiokekai – through Dec. 2 get hat and towels at 10% off; spend $150 and get 10% off; spend $300 and get 20% off, kaimiokekai.com
Katrina Cordova Designs – launch of new Jadeite Infinity Heart Collection on Nov. 27 available at 20% off through Dec. 1, etsy.com/shop/katrinacordovahawaii
Keiki Kaukau – up to 50% off Nov. 24 to Dec. 1, keikikaukau.com
Koa – 20% off site-wide Nov. 27 to Nov. 29, livingkoa.com
Kris Goto – 30% off everything online with the promo code THANKYOU2024, Nov. 23 to Dec. 1, krisgoto.com
Lola Pilar Hawai‘i – 30% almost everything Nov. 22 to Dec. 2, lolapilarhawaii.com
Love Fitness Apparel – up to 80% off starting Nov. 24, lovefitnessapparel.com
Mallow the Label – 40% off site-wide through Nov. 30, mallowthelabel.com
Meli Wraps – 40% off site-wide with promo code BF40, meliwraps.com
Mikoh – up to 40% off everything with promo code SHOP40, shop.mikoh.com
Mohala Eyewear – on Nov. 29 get 35% off one pair or 50% off two pairs from the Black Friday Collection, mohalaeyewear.com
Mōno – Nov. 29 to Nov. 30 get 20% off in-store and online; 30% to 50% off select goods in-store only; enter to win a $200 gift card via an in-store raffle; shop in-store Dean’s Corner items, including personal goods, household products, stationery and accessories, monohawaii.com
Of One Sea – 55% off site-wide, ofonesea.com
‘Ohana – 50% off all linen clothing; 20% off storewide with code BF20, ohanashop.com
‘Ōkole By Kamaile – up to 50% off, bykamaile.com
Vermili Hawai‘i – through Dec. 3 get 20% off orders of $150-plus; 30% off orders of $350-plus, vermili.com
With Love from Paradise – 50% off site-wide, withlovefromparadise.com
XIX Palms – up to 60% off Nov. 22 to Dec. 2, restrictions apply, xixpalms.com
Yireh – 30% off site-wide, excluding new arrivals, Nov. 27 to Dec. 2, shopyireh.com
Yū|Mono Jewelry – Black Friday promo offering 15% off claw earrings, yumonodesign.com

Shopping Centers

Photo: Marisa Heung

Ala Moana Center

Black Friday hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Shoppers can take advantage of the center’s holiday gift-with-purchase promotions—spend $500 or more between Nov. 9 and Dec. 24, 2024 and receive a limited-edition travel tote featuring a Big Santa enamel charm by redeeming receipts at Guest Services within the same timeframe. Visit center’s website for full details.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, available starting Nov. 26
Promotions include:
- Aloha Collection – first 25 shoppers will receive a free gift; in-store deals
- Big Island Candies – Nov. 29 to Nov. 30 receive a free tote bag and gift with a minimum purchase of $100
- Coconut Ave. – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 receive a special gift with your purchase of $100-plus, $150-plus, or $200-plus; receive up to 50% off on the special sale section
- The Face Shop – 9 to 11 a.m. receive 30% off; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. receive 25% off; 1 to 9 p.m. receive 20% off
- Hawai‘I Vault – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 receive 10% off everything; 15% off entire order when you include any Hawai‘i Vault merch
- Hawai‘i’s Finest – receive 75% off select merchandise
- Hawaiian Island Creations – Nov. 25 to Dec. 1 receive 25% off storewide; on Black Friday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. receive 30% off storewide; excludes surfboards, soft boards, bodyboards, Aloha Collection and YETI items
- Kate Spade New York – up to 50% off almost everything
- Laine Honolulu – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 receive 25% off all ready-made jewelry, clothing, permanent jewelry and custom jewelry bar services; plus $10, $15, $20 sale clothing racks
- Manaola – specials on select items; release of new in-store exclusive collection
- Marc Jacobs – up to 50% off Winter Sale items
- Quay – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 BOGO deals
- Reyn Spooner – with every purchase receive a digital scratch card offering a chance to win prizes including gifts w/purchases, discounts or an up-to-$1,000 grand prize shopping spree
- Sera’s Surf ’N Shore – up to 30% off Dakine luggage; up to 50% off select board shorts, T-shirts, aloha shirts
- SoHa Living – Black Friday: 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. get 30% off; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. get 25% off; 1 p.m. to closing get 20% off; excludes sale items, cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions
- T&C Surf Designs – 50% off of T&C Surf brand apparel and accessories through Dec. 31; 50% off select Volcom and O’Neill walk-shorts through Dec. 2; 25% off Catch Surf Wave boards through Dec. 2; free $20 RVCA gift card with any $60 RVCA purchase; other gift with purchase offers
- Tag Heuer – through Dec. 31 receive 10% off select watches and accessories

1450 Ala Moana Blvd., (808) 955-9517, alamoanacenter.com, @alamoanacenter

Photo: Courtesy of International Market Place

International Market Place

Black Friday hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, including:
- Banana Republic – 40% off full-priced purchases Nov. 25 to Nov. 30
- Cariloha – 40% off storewide Nov. 25 to Nov. 30
- Coco Nene – Nov. 30 to Dec. 1 get 20% off storewide on Nov. 30; free ornament with a $75-plus purchase
- Derubeis Fine Art & Metal – spend $3,000 or more and receive a 12×16-inch red-and-white wine glass Derubeis art print ($1,800 value) from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1
- Happy Wahine – 20% off regular-priced merchandise Nov. 26 to Dec. 2
- Hawaiian Island Creations – 25% off storewide Nov. 25 to Dec. 1, excluding surfboards, bodyboards, Aloha Collection and Yeti
- Honolulu Cookie Company – receive a free Small Mele Gift Box A La Carte with every $30 purchase in-store on Nov. 29; while supplies last
- Hurley – 25% off storewide Nov. 25 to Dec. 1, excluding surfboards, bodyboards and Yeti
- KoaWood Ranch – 20% off select jewelry, watches and koa wood items; 30% off KWR totes and 14K gold jewelry
- Lids – BOGO 50% off storewide; 30% off MLB jerseys; $15 knit beanies, Nov. 18 to Dec. 1
- Lovisa – 4 for $15 and 5 for $10 offers
- Martin & MacArthur – 20% off select koa wood products Nov. 27 to Nov. 30
- Opal Fields – 50% off storewide Nov. 28 to Dec. 1
- Sun.daes – in-store deals
- Sunglass Hut – on Nov. 29 get 30% off most brands and accessories; 20% off Ray-Ban Meta Smart sunglasses
- Pandora – up to 30% off storewide Nov. 16 to Dec. 3
- Vera Bradley – 30% off almost everything; 40% off last call styles through Nov. 30
- Vibrations Ohana – on Nov. 29 get up to 50% off select items
- Vilebrequin – receive a limited-edition Sun Collector cap when you spend $500 or more, while supplies last, Nov. 28 to Dec. 31
- Vince – 20% off storewide and sitewide through Dec. 2

2330 Kalākaua Ave., (808) 921-0536, shopinternationalmarketplace.com, @intlmktplace

Photo: Courtesy of Ka Makana Ali‘i

Ka Makana Ali‘i

Black Friday hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Promotions include:
- Auntie Annie’s – get a $5 reward card when you buy $25 in gift card through Dec. 31, in-store only
- Famous Footwear – BOGO 50% off through Dec. 18, exclusions apply
- Pop-Up Mākeke – pop-up shop offering up to 50% off select items through Cyber Monday; $5 coupon to the first 50 customers on Nov. 29
- Lids – 30% off MLB jerseys through Dec. 1
- Reyn Spooner – with every purchase receive a digital scratch card offering a chance to win prizes including gifts w/purchases, discounts or an up-to-$1,000 grand prize shopping spree
- Subway – get a 6-inch sub meal, including a small drink and chips or two cookies for $6.99, through Dec. 26
- Sunglass Hut – 30% off everything and up to 50% off select styles through Dec. 2
- T&C Surf Designs – BOGO 50% T&C Surf brand apparel and accessories; get a free $20 RVCA gift card with any $60 RVCA men’s or women’s apparel or accessory purchase through Dec. 30, while supplies last
- Zales – up to 40% off storewide through Dec. 2; 50% off select items through Nov. 30, exclusions apply

91-5431 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, (808) 628-4800, kamakanaalii.com, @kamakanaalii

Photo: Courtesy of Kāhala Mall

Kāhala Mall

Black Friday hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
HawaiianMiles Black Friday mall-wide promotion: earn 6x HawaiianMiles for every dollar, when you spend a combined minimum subtotal of $100 mall-wide; redeem receipts 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Center Court; see mall website for full details
Promotions include:
- Adore – 50% off from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.; 40% off from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 30% off from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; 50% off from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; 30% off from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1; excludes Aloha Collection, Adore Collection/Luxe
- California Pizza Kitchen – Buy $100 in gift cards and get a $20 bonus card; buy $50 in gift cards and get a $10 bonus card
- Calista – 40% off regular priced items
- Chaya Hawai‘i – A free scoop of boba with any drink purchase
- Claire’s – Buy 3, get 3 free
- CocoNene – 20% off regular priced made-in-Hawai‘i products; 50% off clearance items
- Cookie Corner – $1 chocolate chip cookies, limit 6 per customer, while supplies last
- European Wax Center – free wax for new guests (exclusions apply); buy 9 services and get 3 free; buy a 12-month unlimited wax pass and get the 13th month free
- Fun Factory – VIP & Gold Members: Double Dollar Day, receive double the tokens for the amount you purchase, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- In My Closet – 30% off entire store
- Jeans Warehouse – 75% off red tag items; 30% off shoes
- Magnolia – 10% off original painting; 20% off select items and holiday items; up to 50% off sale shelf items
- Mahina – up to 70% off sales racks, plus enter to win a gift card w/purchase
- Minamoto Kitchoan – up to 40% off select items, while supplies last
- Nohea Gallery – 8% off original paintings; 15% off furniture; 20% to 65% off select made-in-Hawai‘i handcrafts and jewelry
- Pacific Ocean Jewelers – 50% off all in-stock items; 35% off special orders
- Pictures Plus – get 20% off printing Nov. 29 to Nov. 1
- Plus Interiors – 20% off made-in-Hawai‘i furniture
- Reyn Spooner – with every purchase receive a digital scratch card offering a chance to win prizes including gifts w/purchases, discounts or an up-to-$1,000 grand prize shopping spree
- Sanrio Surprises – 20% off one regular priced item $20 or more
- Simply Home – 20% off Eden in Love items from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 30% off Travelon products; specials on select furniture and garden items from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- SoHa Keiki – 30% off entire store 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.; 25% off entire store 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 20% off entire store 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- SoHa Living – 30% off entire store 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.; 25% off entire store 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 20% off entire store 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Splash! Hawai‘i – 25% off Splash brand tees, hats and swimwear; 15% off all other brands, no exclusions
- StretchLab – 25% off of 3-stretch, 5-stretch and 10-stretch gift packs, one-time purchase per person
- Sugar Sugar Hawai‘i – 20% off sale rack
- Surf Camp – 30% off entire purchase 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.; 20% off entire purchase 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; 20% off entire purchase Nov. 30 to Dec. 1.
- T&C Surf Designs – BOGO 50% off of T&C Surf brand apparel and accessories; 25% off Catch Surf Wave boards including Bandit and Odysea; free GoPro Handler with purchase of GoPro Hero 13 Black Bundle; 50% off select Volcom and O’Neill walk-shorts; free $20 RVCA gift card with any $60 RVCA purchase; other gift with purchase offers
- The Compleat Kitchen – 20% off entire purchase Nov. 28 to Nov. 29,
- The Face Shop – 30% off entire store* from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; 25% off entire store* from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 20% off entire store* from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; *10% off select brands
- The Paperie – 30% off entire store from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.; 20% off entire store from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 10% off entire store from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- The Refinery Honolulu – 25% off entire purchase from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m.; 20% off entire purchase from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 15% off entire purchase from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Thinker Things – 25% off entire purchase from 8 am. to 12 p.m.; 20% off entire purchase from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.; does not apply to previous purchases, cannot be combined with other offers
- Thinker Toys – 25% off entire purchase from 8 am. to 12 p.m.; 20% off entire purchase from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.; does not apply to previous purchases, cannot be combined with other offers
- Tori Richard – 20% off storewide
- Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar – free Dole soft serve cup or cone with every $30 purchase, limit two per total order, while supplies last
- Up & Riding – 30% off entire purchase 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.; 20% off entire purchase 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; 20% off entire purchase Nov. 30 to Dec. 1.

4211 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 732-7736, kahalamallcenter.com, @kahalamall

Kapolei Commons

Black Friday hours: TBD
Promotions include:
- Massage Envy Hawai‘i – free $20 promo card when you purchase $100 in gift cards, in-location only
- Core Power Yoga – 30% off all yoga gear, both in studio and online with promo code BLKFRI30
- Inspiration Interiors – up to 50% off display models and last chance items
- Petco – 50% off a variety of pet favorites from Nov. 23 to Nov. 30
- Fujioka’s Wine Times – 50% off select items on Nov. 29
- Village Beer Kapolei – 2024 Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout release; barrel-aged beers on draft; flash sales on bottles and cans; gift card specials

4450 Kapolei Commons, Kapolei, (808) 203-2242, kapoleicommons.com, @kapoleicommons

Laine Honolulu, Photo: Courtesy of Pearlridge Center

Pearlridge Center

Black Friday hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, including:
- Crazy Shirts – 30% off storewide from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., exclusions may apply
- Elly Rose – 50% off during the first hour following opening, 40% off during the second hour and 30% off during the third hour; first 25 customers to spend $100-plus will receive a free tote bag
- HIC Surf – 30% off storewide until 1 p.m.; 25% off storewide from Nov. 25 to Dec. 1, both specials exclude surfboards, bodyboards, Aloha Collection and Yeti; additional holiday promotions in-store through Dec. 24 or while supplies last
- Jeans Warehouse – first 100 customers will receive a $20 gift card; 75% off Red Tag merchandise, 30% off shoes, kids merchandise, plus-size merchandise and toys
- Kawaii Corner – Boba plushies are 25% off; Bunny plushies are 30% off, kid’s backpacks with plushies are 25% off, kid’s hair clip sets are $30% off
- Laine Honolulu – 25% off all jewelry, clothing, and permanent jewelry and jewelry bar services
- Macy’s – first 100 customers receive a $10 Macy’s Money gift card; additional Black Friday sales
- Manaola – Manaola Madness event, from opening to 1 p.m., offering various promotions and the lowest prices of the season on apparel and accessories; new Black Friday exclusive releases
- Miniso – $8 off for every $40 spent from Nov. 25 to Dec. 1; Miniso Members will receive a free shopping bag and 2X points for any purchase
- Royal Hawaiian Heritage Jewelry – free custom engravings with a purchase of Hawaiian Heirloom bracelets, rings or pendants
- T&C Surf Designs – BOGO 50% off of T&C Surf brand deals; launch of T&C Surf Designs-exclusive Stanley Tumbler; 25% off Catch Surf boards from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2 including Wave Bandit, Odysea and Beaters; free GoPro Handler with purchase of GoPro Hero 13 Black Bundle; 50% off select Volcom and O’Neill walk-shorts; free $20 RVCA gift card with any $60 RVCA purchase; free gifts with qualifying purchases, specially priced gift sets
- Tanoa Hawai‘i – first 100 purchasing customers on Black Friday will receive a free newly released Fale canvas bag, restrictions apply; $10 t-shirt specials; launch of new Abbie family collection
- Windsor – 20% off all regular priced items

98-1005 Moanalua Road, ‘Aiea, (808) 488-0981, pearlridgeonline.com, @pearlridge

Photo: Courtesy of Royal Hawaiian Center

Royal Hawaiian Center

Black Friday hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Promotions include:
- 206 BCE – 10% off all international snacks with any purchase, Nov. 28 to Nov. 29
- Banán – buy 3 jars of macadamia nut honey butter on Black Friday and receive a $20 Banán gift card, available starting Nov. 29 through the holiday season, while supplies last.
- Gelatissimo – get a single scoop of gelato for $4 (cones and toppings are extra) on Nov. 29
- Honolulu Cookie Company – receive a free à la carte Small Mele Gift Box with every $30 purchase on Nov. 29, while supplies last
- House of Mana Up – 20% off storewide (excludes art, Duke Kahanamoku collaboration and clearance items) on Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.; select products discounted up to 75% off through Dec. 1
- Kāhala – Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 get 20% off everything storewide, in-store only, not combinable with other offers
- L&L Hawaiian Barbecue – 15% off chicken katsu on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29
- Mini Monster Café – get a FREE cotton candy cloud with any drink purchase on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29

2201 Kalakaua Ave., (808) 922-2299, royalhawaiiancenter.com, @royalhwncntr

Salt at Our Kaka‘ako

Black Friday hours: TBD
Promotions include:
- The Boiling Crab – on Nov. 29, get a free $25 Most Valuable Crabber card with each $50 gift card purchase
- Highway Inn – Nov. 29 to Nov. 30, enjoy $12 kālua pig bowls and $5 draft beer until 3 p.m.
- Kāhala – Nov. 28 to Dec. 1, get 20% off everything storewide, in-store only, not combinable with other offers or promotions
- Lonohana Estate Chocolate – spend $150 and get a free tote; save $15 when you purchase three or more gift boxes; free chocolate factory tour voucher for two with a purchase of $200; 10% off seasonal favorites including bars, ginger crunch, mac nuts and chili medallions

691 Auahi St., saltatkakaako.com, @saltatourkakaako

Waikele Premium Outlets

Black Friday hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, including:
- Adidas Outlet Store – up to 60% off storewide through Dec. 2
- Clark’s Outlet – two pairs for $99.99 on select styles; clearance shoes are two pairs for $49.99 through Dec. 2
- Cole Haan Outlet – almost everything 60% to 70% off; boots starting at $99.99 through Dec. 2
- Crocs – buy 13 full-price Jibbitz Charms and get 13 free Nov. 27 to Dec. 4; not combinable with other offers, limited restrictions and exclusions apply
- Fragrance Outlet – select fragrances are $49 each or three for $129 through Jan. 8
- Kate Spade Outlet – deals up to 70% off; extra 25% off everything Nov. 25 to Nov. 30
- Kipling – get two Mini Bags for $52; 50% off wallets, through Nov. 29
- Lacoste – entire store up to 60% off Nov. 25 to Dec. 2
- Lids – BOGO 50% off through Dec. 1, some exclusions may apply
- Pandora – 30% off storewide
- Perfumania – three for $129 on select fragrances through Jan. 8
- Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store – 50% off apparel Nov. 25 to Dec. 3
- Samsonite – up to 40% off storewide Nov. 15 to Dec. 4
- Skechers – Nov. 14 to Jan. 1, BOGO 50% off second pair of Skechers footwear; BOGO Skechers apparel, select styles only, restrictions apply
- Swarovski – up to 40% off select styles through Dec. 2
- Tory Burch – 50% off and an extra 25% off Nov. 26 to Dec. 2
- Vera Bradley Outlet – up to 70% off almost everything through Dec. 1
- Zales Outlet – 50% to 70% off storewide through Dec. 2, may exclude certain new items, designer brands and licensed or exclusive collections

94-790 Lumiaina St, Waipahu, (808) 676-5656, premiumoutlets.com/outlet/waikele, @waikelepo

Photo: Courtesy of Waikīkī Beach Walk

Waikīkī Beach Walk

Small Business Saturday hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Waikīkī Beach Walk will host a Holiday Open House shopping event on Saturday, Nov. 30, offering special deals, promotions, prize drawings and treats, and live music from 4 to 8 p.m.
Parking: from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy complimentary valet parking at Embassy Suites
Giveaways: attendees can enter to win a two-night stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk and can hunt for a hidden key to win a breakout room experience from Breakout Waikīkī
Some of the participating stores and eateries include:
- Blue Ginger
- Big Wave Dave’s
- Blue Sky Thai Massage
- Breakout Waikīkī
- Carludovica
- Eimeo
- KaiAloha Supply
- Kolohe
- Lemuria Crystals
- Park West Valley
- Reyn Spooner
- Ukulele Store
- Wyland Gallery

226 Lewers St. and 227 Lewers St., (808) 285-8446, waikikibeachwalk.com, @waikikibeachwalk

Photo: Courtesy of Ward Village

Ward Village

Black Friday hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, including:

‘A‘ali‘i Shops

Planted by La Tour Cafe – complimentary canele with any entree or drink purchase

Anaha Shops

At Dawn – 48-hour online sale starting Nov. 28 at 7 a.m. HST offering 25% off sitewide
We Are Iconic – purchase one to four items and get 25% off with promo code BFICONIC25; purchase five-plus items and get 30% off with promo code BFICONIC30; exclusions apply; final sale and no refunds, exchanges or discounts on previous purchases

Kō‘ula Shops

Body Fit Training – get 50% off the first month of an unlimited membership through Dec. 1
Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa – Members can buy two guest-price gift cards and receive a free one-hour massage or Classical Facial promotional gift card. Non-members can receive a free massage or facial gift card with the purchase of one guest-price gift card. Both available in-store only, Nov. 29 through Dec. 1
StretchLab – 25% off three-stretch, five-stretch and 10-stretch gift packages; free pair of socks with each gift certificate purchase

South Shore Market

Always A.Line – Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; on Nov. 29, spend $150 and receive 25% off, spend $250 and receive 30% off, spend $350 and receive 35% off, spend $500 and receive 40% off; exclusions apply.
House of Mana Up – from 10 a.m. to noon, receive 20% off your entire purchase
Off the Wall – receive a complimentary $20 gift card with every $100 gift card purchase
Salvage Public – in-store archive sale on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering up to 70% off past season styles and samples; online sale offering various deals

Ward Centre

For Simple Sustainability – Receive a Trade-Up Discount via the store’s Black Friday social media promotion. Return customers can enjoy a 20% discount off the refill station.
Kids City Adventure – Nov. 27 through Dec. 2, purchase a $20 gift card and receive a free $10 e-gift card and enjoy 50% off all toys.
Sweat + Soul – Buy more, save more deals on class packs up to 25% off. Save $300 on an Unlimited Annual Membership.

Ward Entertainment Center

Dave and Buster’s – Purchase a $50 gift card and get a $10 Bounce Back Card

320 Ward Ave.

Hawai‘i Natural Therapy – Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 20% discount on all massage services and memberships booked on Black Friday. Enjoy a relaxation lounge outside the clinic offering mini massages. Enter an Instagram giveaway for a chance to win a free massage.

wardvillage.com, @wardvillage

Windward Mall

Black Friday hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Find the most current list of promotions on the center’s website, including:
- The Blessed Life – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, BOGO free on premium embroidered hoodies, while supplies last; shop sales racks
- Famous Footwear – Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, BOGO 50% off shoes, some exclusions apply
- Happy Wahine – 20% off regular priced merchandise store-wide Nov. 29 to Dec. 1

46-056 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne‘ohe, (808) 235-1143, windwardmall.com, @windwardmall

Neighborhood Shopping Events

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Downtown Shop Around

Friday, Nov. 29, to Wednesday, Dec. 25
This community-organized shopping and dining event features businesses throughout Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown.
Promotions include:
- Ginger13 – storewide sale on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday; Small Business Saturday in-store pop-ups with RST Candles, Dazed Gems and Paddle Out Drip Coffee
- Honolulu Printmakers – Annual Holiday Sale on Friday, Dec. 6, 3 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Laha‘ole Hawai‘i – Black Friday deals start Friday, Nov. 22, at 9 a.m. HST with 20% off site-wide and up to 50% off sale items; free shipping on orders $150-plus; all sales final; Ginger release on Saturday, Nov. 30, in-store and online
- The Manifest – open at 5 p.m. with live music at 7 p.m. by Temple Waves; cocktail specials for Downtown Shop Around shoppers
- Tin Can Mailman – receive a Tin Can Mailman tote with a $100 purchase on Nov. 29, only four available
- Valia Honolulu – Black Friday deals start on Saturday, Nov. 23, with up to 60% off online and in-store

@downtownshoparound

Photos: Courtesy of Keep It Kaimukī

Keep It Kaimukī Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This fun neighborhood shopping and dining event includes promotions at 30-plus businesses in Kaimukī. Stop by Ali‘iolani Elementary School for an outdoor market (view the vendor lineup here), live entertainment, free gift wrapping and free family activities, including a petting zoo and snow globe-themed photo booth. The market is also where you can score newly released Keep It Kaimukī Saturday merchandise—see a few of our favorite styles above. After sunset, head to Pu‘u O Kaimukī Mini Park for a Christmas tree lighting and concert.
Parking: complimentary self-parking will be available at Sacred Heart Academy and free trolley rides throughout the neighborhood will be available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Promotions include:
- Art Flow Studio – $40 and $50 new gel nail sets by apprentice artist, includes gel removal
- Babes Bakery – gingerbread cookies and holiday goodies
- Bead It – 20% off storewide
- Bean About Town – purchase 4 retail coffee bags or an 8-ounce coffee tube, or spend $100 and get a free Bean About Town Kaimukī tote ($25 value); BOGO 50% off second items; tag us on Instagram and get 10% off
- Chubbies Burgers – purchase $50 in gift cards and receive a complimentary $10 gift card
- The Curb Kaimukī – 10% off coffee and tea beverages
- da Shop: books + curiosities/Bess Press – exclusive deals for the day; new Florentine leather book bag
- Daily Whisk Matcha – seasonal drinks: dark chocolate mocha and white chocolate peppermint matcha
- Every Day Better by Green Meadows – artists market, raffle, 20% off purchases of three or more items
- Fusion Cafe + Wine – 25% off wines by the glass; $5 off Fusion Signature Chocolates; free cold brew with a sandwich or salad purchase
- Hawai‘i Dance Bomb – 10% off Kids’ Birthday Parties and 10% off Saturday Night Kids’ Dance Parties; valid only for KIK Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024; promo code KIK
- House of Intention – 15% off entire in-store purchase; free limited-edition House of Intention tote with minimum in-store purchase
- Island-Boy – complimentary raffles and new product launches
- Iyengar Yoga Silent Dance Center – 10% off 4-class and 8-class passes Nov. 29 to Nov. 30 with promo code kik2024; new students can get 3 classes for $30
- Keep It Simple – 20% off refills; Swedish candy pop-up; markdowns up to 70% off; free gift with purchase; bundle deals; gift sets
- Koko Head Café – 10% off all items
- Little Sparrow – special Kaimukī bowl; free lemonade ($5 value) if you spend $25 or more
- Mud Hen Water, Fato a Mano, The Local General Store, Little Vessels Donut Co., Local I‘a – DJ Rich Lather spinning vinyl and delicious eats by all restaurants
- The Public Pet – 20% off sale storewide, excluding food
- Red Pineapple – 10% off on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1
- Salon 96816 – limited-edition holiday gifts from Davines discounted 25%; free product with any hair service Nov. 29 through Dec. 1
- Small Kine Gift – grand opening
- Sugarcane – 15% off your entire purchase; free Kaimukī keychain ($12 value) with a $50-plus purchase, free canvas tote with a $150-plus purchase; free mystery gift card ($10 to $50 value, redeemable after Jan. 1, 2025 ) to the first 20 customers
- Talk Kaimukī – $5 shots
- Ten Tomorrow – 10% off the new holiday collection; up to 75% off past collections
- Tight Tacos – exclusive deals on KIK Saturday
- Wainani Wellness Center – new customers receive 50% discount on first class with day-of promo code; applies to single Pilates reformer, Pilates mat or Virtual Pilates mat; private sessions excluded
- Yoga Room Hawai‘i – 20% off all 5-class and 10-class packs
- Yoga Under the Palms/Studio HNL – 20% off all regular price; BOGO sale rack; 10% off yoga class packs

keepitkaimuki.com, @keepitkaimuki

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Kailua Town Black Friday Weekend

Friday, Nov. 29, to Monday, Dec. 2
Head to the Windward side to score deals at Kailua businesses.
Find the most current list of promotions on Kailua Town’s website, including:

Hekili Street

10 Empanadas – 20% off purchase on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, restrictions apply
Aloha Kira – during Black Friday weekend, spend $75 and get 10% off; spend $100 and get 15% off; spend $150 and get 20% off; spend $200 and get 20% off and a free gift
Big City Diner – Nov. 29 and Nov. 30 enjoy $5 Miller Lite pints and select wines
Bikini Bird – during Black Friday weekend, spend $100 or more and get a gift card equaling 10% of your total; first 10 people to purchase in-store (any dollar amount) get a free gift with purchase; additional 30% off sale items.
Gillia – Black Friday Weekend: up to 70% off storewide, restrictions apply
Island Bungalow Hawaii – Small Business Saturday: spend $250 and get a $25 gift card
Kailua Crystals – Black Friday: Black Friday Prize Envelopes for all customers offering discounts and prizes; Small Business Saturday: spend $50-plus and receive a gift with purchase
Lauren Roth Art – Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: 30% off all Lauren Roth Art products, excluding originals excluded.; first 5 customers to spend more than $200 get a goodie bag
Ocean’s End – 40 to 60% off online purchases
Mahaloha Burger – Black Friday Weekend: $2 off burgers and hotdogs; $1 off specialty fries; $5 beer special
Mokolua Surf Co. – Black Friday: 20% off your purchase, restrictions apply
Pieology Kailua – Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: BOGO free pizza, salad or calzone
Splash! Hawaii – Black Friday: 15% off Splash brand and 25% fff all other brands; Small Business Saturday: Gift with purchase of $100 or more
StretchLab Kailua – Nov. 29 to Dec. 2 get 25% off of 3-stretch, 5-stretch and 10-stretch gift packs
Woven by Shaolin – Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: spend $100 and get 10% off; spend $150 and get 15% off; spend $200 and get 20% off; spend over $250-plus and get 25% off.

Kailua Shopping Center

Lanikai Bath and Body – Black Friday weekend: 20% off purchases; additional in-store and online sales; free holiday sanitizer with a $40-plus purchase
Morning Brew Kailua – Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: get 10% off of all retail items, excluding bagged coffee; spend $50 on retail items and receive a $5 gift card. Pop-Up Market + Music: Saturday, Nov. 25 from 6-9pm
The Salty Babe – Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, get 25% off storewide, including sale items

Kailua Village Shops

Cariloha Kailua – Nov. 25 to Nov. 30 receive 40% off storewide
Mahina Kailua – Black Friday Weekend: additional markdowns up to 70% off; enter to win one of three $250 Mahina gift card
SoHa Keiki – Black Friday: 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. get 30% off; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. get 25% off; 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. get 20% off. Small Business Saturday: 20% off entire store
SoHa Living – Black Friday: 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. get 30% off; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. get 25% off; 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. get 20% off. Small Business Saturday: 20% off entire store

Kihapai Street

Olive Boutique – Nov. 29 to Nov. 30 spend $100 and get a $10 gift card; spend $200 and get a $25 gift card
Oliver Men’s Shop – Nov. 29 to Nov. 30 spend $100 and get a $10 gift card; spend $200 and get a $25 gift card

Lau Hala Shops

Waxing The City – All of November: receive a service and get a free scratch-off ticket with a discount of up to 50% off on full-size retail items; Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: receive a service and get a scratch-off ticket with a guaranteed discount for any product in the store
UFC Gym Kailua – Black Friday Weekend: sales on retail items, memberships, supplements and recovery items

Other

Aesthetic Gallery – 10% off on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, restrictions apply
California Pizza Kitchen – Buy $100 on gift cards & receive a $25 bonus card through Jan. 6, 2025
Hawaiian Island Creations – Nov. 25 to Dec. 1 get 25% off everything, excluding surfboards, bodyboards, paddles, Aloha Collection and Yeti.
Honolulu Sunglass Shop – Nov. 18 to Dec. 2 get 30% off all regular-price sunglasses (excluding Maui Jim); 20% off Ray-Ban Meta sunglasses; free Zeal Optics sunglasses with Maui Jim purchase (up to $229 value and while supplies last)
Uloha – 30% off shoes and backpacks

kailuatownhi.com, @kailuatownhi

Your Insider Guide to ‘Twas the Light Before Christmas

Laura Dornbush — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:30:22 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

‘Twas the Light Before Christmas brings a fresh perspective on holiday cheer to Honolulu from Friday, Nov. 22, to Tuesday, Dec. 31. This first-of-its-kind, immersive experience is hosted by the Hawai‘i Convention Center and Paquin Entertainment Group, the same company behind the 2021 and 2022 exhibitions Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience and Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience.

Plan a date night or family outing to stroll through a tunnel of lights, watch an animation show in the kalaidaSCAPE room, listen to holiday music, sip hot cocoa, have a faux snowball fight and meet Santa. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to snap photos in front of magical backdrops that look straight out of classic storybooks.

Click to the info you want to explore:

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

How Much It Costs

Tickets start at $26.99 for those 14+ and $14.99 for keiki 3–13. Children under 3 years old are free. Additional discounts are available for students, seniors, military members and groups.

Tickets are for reserved entry every half hour, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

VIP tickets are $74.99 and include a flexible admission time, priority entry, choice of a cocktail or non-alcoholic drink and an exclusive ‘Twas the Light Before Christmas gift.

Where to Park

Parking in the Hawai‘i Convention Center garage is $15 per entry. For a less expensive option, park two blocks away at Ala Moana Shopping Center (1450 Ala Moana Blvd.) in the Premium Parking section on the Waikīkī side of Macy’s. Use promo code HCC22 to get a 50% discount.

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

What to Do & See

Wander through a whimsical world from one themed room to another. Explore The Fir Forest, encounter a snowball fight, make a special Christmas wish, take photos at the Naughty or Nice Selfie Station and relax with a festive beverage. You’ll be enchanted by 186 snow-covered fir trees, 22 larger-than-life lighting installations, 68 projectors and 33 feet of light tunnels. The experience lasts about one hour, but you are welcome to linger longer.

There will be a few special event days included with regular admission:

Toddler Time

Monday, Dec. 2, and Monday, Dec. 9, 10 to 11 a.m.

Enjoy a cozy, kid-friendly atmosphere filled with holiday fun, perfect for young imaginations.

Pajama Days

Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Tuesday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Come dressed in your comfiest PJs and enjoy a $5 drink coupon.

Slay the Holidays

Thursday, Dec. 5, 7 to 10 p.m.

Feel festive at this 21+ party with a drag show. A percentage of proceeds benefits the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation.

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

Santa Meet & Greets

Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22, 3 to 7 p.m.

Meet the man of the hour, share your wish list and take a photo together.

Ugly Sweater Day

Thursday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Dress in your tackiest holiday attire and receive a free signature cookie.

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

What to Eat & Buy

Sip on classic holiday drinks, such as hot cocoa ($6), eggnog ($8/$14) and peppermint coffee ($6), as well as beer, wine and soft drinks. Don’t miss the signature cocktails ($15), including Cranky Saint Nick crafted with whiskey, sweet and sour and cranberry juice or the Frosted Lemonade with gin, peppermint schnapps and lemonade. Seasonal treats will also be available for purchase such as charcuterie & cheese ($8), Christmas cookies ($8), chocolate bonbons ($12) and more.

The ‘Twas the Light gift shop will sell more than a dozen unique signature items, including wearable keepsakes, ceramic hot cocoa mugs, ornaments and more.

Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Immersive

Tips

Book your tickets early as the organizers expect popular dates to sell out.
Save a few dollars by booking tickets for a weekday (Monday to Thursday) through Thursday, Dec. 19. Weekends and time slots close to Christmas are more expensive.
For date night vibes, book a time slot later in the evening after families have gone home for bedtime.
The experience requires walking from room to room, so bring a stroller or baby carrier for young keiki.
Pack light because backpacks, duffle bags and outside food and drink will not be allowed inside.
Enter to win free tickets through a giveaway on Instagram, but hurry before it closes on Friday, Nov. 22, at 8 a.m. HST.

‘Twas the Light Before Christmas, Friday, Nov. 22, through Tuesday, Dec. 31, Hawai‘i Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Ave., alohaimmersive.com, @twas.honolulu

Photos: Honolulu Restaurant Week Kick-Off Party 2024

HONOLULU Branded Content Team — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:29:06 +0000

Photos: Anthony Consillio

The Honolulu Restaurant Week Kick-Off Party on Friday, November 8th, at BMW of Honolulu was a night to remember! Guests indulged in mouth-watering dishes from five of the participating restaurants, each showcasing their signature flavors. The evening sparkled with live music, setting the perfect backdrop as attendees sipped on refreshing wine and champagne, celebrating the best of Honolulu’s culinary scene. It was a fantastic start to a week dedicated to incredible food, community, and unforgettable dining experiences.