Arts & Culture Archives - Honolulu Magazine

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

Your Guide to the Perfect Weekend in Honolulu: Nov. 14–20, 2024

Laura Dornbush — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:30:07 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of Trust for Public Land

Urban Makahiki

Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A twist on traditional Hawaiian harvest season festivities, this celebration in the heart of town focuses on the sharing of cultures. Watch hula, kung fu and lion dance performances, learn with hands-on activities, play games and shop local vendors.

Family-friendly, free, ‘A‘ala Park, 280 N. King St., eventbrite.com

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Korean Cultural Center

Taste of Korea

Thursday, Nov. 14, 6 to 9 p.m.

Expect creative, Korean-inspired dishes by local chefs and restaurants, including Hangang Korean Grill House, MW Restaurant, O’Kim’s Contemporary Korean Kitchen and The Pig & The Lady. Plus, sample Korean liquor, watch a fashion show and dance along with K-pop performers.

$100, Japanese Cultural Center, 2454 Beretania St., Mō‘ili‘ili, hawaiikcc.org

Photo: Courtesy of Khan Skewer House

HONOLULU Restaurant Week

Now through Sunday, Nov. 17

Score deals and try new limited-time menus at 63 restaurants across O‘ahu during HONOLULU Restaurant Week. See all the ‘ono options online.

hnlrestaurantweek.com, @honolulurestaurantweek

Photo Credit: Yuji Hori

Listen to Pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii

Thursday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m. at Hawai‘i Theatre Center

Saturday, Nov. 16, and Sunday, Nov. 17, 11:30 a.m. at Blue Note Hawai‘i

You have three opportunities to catch a concert by this world-renowned pianist as part of the ANA ‘Aha Mele Festival. Blind since birth, the inspiring artist will perform alongside local musicians on Thursday and host intimate brunch performances on Saturday and Sunday.

$15–$110, Hawai‘i Theatre Center, 1130 Bethel St., Chinatown, hawaiitheatre.com, @hawaiitheatre

$140–$170, Blue Note Hawai‘i, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotejazz.com, @bluenotehawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association

Hawai‘i’s Woodshow

Sunday, Nov. 17, to Sunday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

From heirloom-quality rocking chairs to ornately carved chalices, you’ll be in awe of the craftmanship and artistry on display at the annual exhibition by the Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association. View works created from Hawai‘i-grown woods, like lychee, mango and mahogany, and watch wood-turning demonstrations (only Sunday, Nov. 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Free, Neal S. Blaisdell Center, Pikake Room, 777 Ward Ave., woodshow.hawaiiforest.org, @hawaiiswoodshow

Photo: Courtesy of 15th Wing

Wings of Aloha

Saturday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Get a close-up look at military aircraft during Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam’s open house. Tour iconic planes such as the F-22 Raptor, C-37 and C-17 Globemaster III, check out military equipment, meet skilled aviators and visit educational booths.

Family-friendly, free, open to all community members with a valid U.S. ID., register for free parking and shuttle from Aloha Stadium or Lagoon Drive outside Honolulu Airport, 15wing.af.mil, @15thwing

Your Guide to the Perfect Weekend in Honolulu: Nov. 7–13, 2024

Laura Dornbush — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:30:05 +0000

Photo: Courtesy of Battleship Missouri Memorial

Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony

Monday, Nov. 11, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of Veterans Day, and you’re invited to celebrate the milestone aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the site of Japan’s formal surrender in World War II. Also available via live stream, the ceremony will salute our nation’s service members and reflect on the sacrifices of those who have served.

Free, Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor, complimentary shuttle service available from Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, 1 Arizona Memorial Pl., ussmissouri.org, @battleshipmissouri

Photo: Courtesy of Food & New Product Show

Food & New Product Show

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

Saturday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come hungry to this expo featuring more than 250 vendors serving up everything from trendy desserts to fresh oysters to holiday gifts. Enjoy food samples, cooking demonstrations, a plant sale, craft booths, entertainment and giveaways.

Family-friendly, $6 general admission, $4 military and seniors, free for keiki 12 years old and younger, Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, 777 Ward Ave., pacificexpos.com, @pacificexposhawaii

2024 LOTTE Championship

Wednesday, Nov. 6, through Saturday, Nov. 9

Watch some of the best professional women golfers compete in this four-day LPGA Tour event in ‘Ewa Beach. Make sure to cheer on rookie Malia Nam of Kailua, who’s the only player from Hawai‘i in this year’s tournament.

$25 daily admission, $75 week-long pass, free for military and keiki 16 years old and younger, Hoakalei Country Club, 91-1620 Keoneula Blvd., lottechampionship.com, @lottechampionship

Image: Courtesy of Da Shop: Books + Curiosities

Honolulu Stories Today Reading and Launch Party

Saturday, Nov. 9, 2 to 4 p.m.

Listen to local literature as six authors read their short stories from a new modern fiction collection, plus purchase your own copy to take home and don’t leave without getting it signed.

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

Photo: Credit Brendon Wang

Kāhuli Festival

Saturday, Nov. 9, 3 to 9 p.m.

Learn about endangered Hawaiian land snails and how you can help protect them. Listen to talks by conservationists, authors, researchers and cultural practitioners, get hands-on with a 3D-printed shell activity, view rare snail species, admire art displays, plus enjoy live music, food and drinks by Honolulu Beerworks.

Family-friendly, $5 admission for kama‘āina and military, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, 1525 Bernice St., (808) 847-3511, bishopmuseum.org, @bishopmuseum

Things to Do on O‘ahu in November and December 2024

Katrina Valcourt — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:00:32 +0000

Photo: Troy Conrad

COMEDY

Jo Koy: Just Being Koy Tour

Nov. 29 and 30, 8 p.m.

When comedian Jo Koy performed at Blaisdell in 2017, he broke a record with 11 sold-out shows. A local favorite, he’s since been back multiple times. Keep in mind kids under 12 should probably stay home.

$59.50 and up, Blaisdell Center, ticketmaster.com, @jokoy

DINING

HONOLULU Restaurant Week

Nov. 9–17

As if we need more reason to dine out, participating restaurants across O‘ahu will offer special menu deals for a limited time, benefiting the Hawai‘i Restaurant Association Educational Foundation and Aloha Harvest. Reservations are highly recommended. Browse the menus online to plan your week in advance.

Multiple locations, hnlrestaurantweek.com, @honolulurestaurantweek, @honolulumag, @frolichawaii

THEATER

Once on This Island

Nov. 14–Dec. 8

A peasant girl named Ti Moune offers her life to the gods to save Daniel, the unconscious, injured boy she has taken care of and fallen in love with. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays.

$25 and up, Mānoa Valley Theatre, manoavalleytheatre.com, @manoavalleytheatre

CONCERT

Lil Wayne

Nov. 16, 5 p.m.

Just because the stadium is closed doesn’t mean it can’t host events outside. Fans of the rapper have been waiting for Tha Carter VI to drop since the album was teased more than two years ago, but no date had been announced as of press time.

$99 and up, Aloha Stadium parking lot, tmrevents.net, @liltunechi

EXHIBIT

Hawai‘i’s Woodshow

Nov. 17–24

See the beauty of Hawai‘i-grown hardwoods that have been transformed into works of art in the Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association’s 32nd annual woodshow. And don’t worry—the use of endemic species is not allowed, other than Acacia koa.

Free admission, Neal S. Blaisdell Center Pīkake Room, woodshow.hawaiiforest.org

HOLIDAY

’Twas the Light Before Christmas

Nov. 22–Dec. 31

The debut of Honolulu’s latest immersive event brings wonder and the magic of the season to the whole family. Expect holiday music and treats, light sculptures, an ugly Christmas sweater night, gingerbread houses and more.

Hawai‘i Convention Center, alohaimmersive.com

HOLIDAY

Waikīkī Holiday Parade

Nov. 29, 7 p.m.

Not just a Christmas parade, this annual event honors survivors and veterans in commemoration of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Expect marching bands and entertainment along the route from Fort DeRussy to Kapi‘olani Park.

Free admission, Kalākaua Avenue, waikikiholidayparade.com

Photo: Courtesy of Honolulu Marathon

SPORTS

Honolulu Marathon

Dec. 8, 5 a.m.

Maybe you’re running it yourself, or just want to support the nearly 30,000 runners expected to take part in one of the world’s largest marathons. Head to Kapi‘olani Park around 7 a.m. to catch some of the world’s elite runners as they cross the finish line.

$196–$310, start at Ala Moana Beach Park, honolulumarathon.org, @honolulumarathon

Passion for Fashion at Capitol Modern

Lisa Shiroma — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:30:01 +0000

Fashion returns to Capitol Modern with two local brands, Heavenly and Crystal Rose Label. They’ll be unveiling their new collections with a refreshing runway fashion show. Both founders are dedicated to slow fashion, and you’ll get to experience first hand their latest creations come to life.

Photos: Courtesy of Crystal Rose Label

Crystal Lee has always been mindful of her choices in what she wore, even from a young age. Her mother taught her how to sew her own clothes and where others saw old, tired garments, she saw exciting possibilities for reimagined styles. After studying fashion design at UH Manoa and being in the industry for 10 years, she created Crystal Rose Label. She describes it as a one-woman company “where she designs, cuts, sews, and packages everything at her in-home studio.” With an emphasis on handmade personal touches, she uses her craftsmanship to create one-of-a-kind works of wearable art.

Photos: Courtesy of Crystal Rose Label

On First Friday, she will be presenting her new collection “Beyond the Frame: Visions in Thread.” Using her chosen mediums of fabric and thread, she creates unconventional looks with ethereal vibes. “By transforming discarded and forgotten materials into unique designs, this collection celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the power and warmth of handcrafted artistry.”

Photos: Courtesy of Heavenly

Since 2016, Heavenly’s founder and designer Mapis Bernal has been on a mission to have people embrace slow fashion through her brand. Conscious of fast fashion’s negative impacts, each item of clothing made for Heavenly is carefully designed to connect the wearer with its core values of sustainability.

Originally from Bogota, Colombia, Bernal takes inspiration from her indigenous ancestors’ relationship with nature. With that in mind, she has dedicated her brand to generations of the future. Heavenly aims to “design and produce works that revolve around local and sustainable resources.” The brand also “emphasizes quality and longevity of a piece rather than mass production that exploits both the people and the Earth’s resources and environment.”

Photo: Courtesy of Heavenly

Heavenly’s latest collection “Ripple Realms” invites you to explore “a whimsical portal inspired by the enchanting elements of nudibranchs, ripples, distortion, optical illusions, perspective, delicacy, whimsy, magic and sustainability.” Bernal artfully combines all of these ideas to create clothing that challenges notions of what slow fashion may look like. She has a very catchy declaration: “Alchemy of slow fashion: turning tragic into magic.”

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

In addition to the fashion show, Capitol Modern will feature live performances by homegrown musical guests in the Sculpture Garden. Max High will take you on an electric dream with his original synthesizer-based compositions. R&B and soul singer-songwriter Alecia Kanamu will be sharing her graceful, tender songs, and Izik will make your heart skip a beat with his luscious vocals.

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

Also joining the event will be Hawai‘i’s favorite urban market Art + Flea, with independent creatives selling a wide range of specialty products. Get a head start on your holiday shopping and help support small local business owners to continue doing what they love.

First Friday, Nov. 1, 5–9 p.m., free admission, Capitol Modern, 250 S. Hotel St., capitolmodern.org, @capitolmodern

Lisa Shiroma is a correspondent for Capitol Modern and an artist. She is the former owner of the Capitol Modern Museum Gallery Shop, which she ran with partners Aly Ishikuni and Travis Sasaki from Mori by Art + Flea.

Friday Night Frights: The Legend of Hawai‘i’s Night Marchers

Diane Lee — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared online in October 2014.

While most ghost hunters are out looking for spirits, there are some ghosts you should never look at. Hawai‘i’s night marchers, the phantoms of ancient Hawaiian warriors are said to roam the Islands at night. In life, these warriors supposedly traveled at night to protect people so sacred that the common man was never allowed to look at them. Breaking that rule meant death.

The night marchers’ job wasn’t to terrorize people. It was simply to protect the most sacred, high-ranking chiefs; depending on kapu status, the chiefs marched in front or behind the procession. The night marchers showed mercy by traveling at night to spare people from harm, storyteller Lopaka Kapanui says.

It’s easy to tell if night marchers are approaching, he says. They carry torches. They march to the thunderous sound of drums. They give warning by sounding a conch shell. That’s when you know it’s time to run and hide.

If you’re already in the path of the night marchers’ trail, legend dictates you must strip naked and lie face down. There’s a rumor that peeing on yourself will keep you alive. Whatever you decide to do, don’t look at them! If you’re lucky enough to share a bloodline with somebody marching in the procession, you’ll supposedly be saved.

The night marchers are said to frequent sacred Hawaiian grounds, such as sites of sacrificial temples, and other areas of O‘ahu, including Yokohama Bay, Kamehameha III’s summer mansion, Mākaha Valley Plantation, Ka‘ena Point and Kalama Valley. There’s even a night marchers path that goes through the armory inside Diamond Head crater, Kapanui says.

In downtown Honolulu, there’s reportedly a night marchers trail that runs through the footprint of the Davies Pacific Center (not our building, thank goodness). In 2012, Kapanui met with attorneys on the 23rd floor, who claimed that the building’s security cameras captured the night marchers on video. A Native Hawaiian cleaning lady was reportedly doing her job at night when a column of mist appeared. The woman died the next day. The following month, someone claimed to have seen the ghost of the lady marching with the night marchers and disappearing at the other side of the wall.

The night marchers are said to march on the last four Hawaiian moon phases, before the moon goes completely dark. This month, beware of Oct. 20–23 when Kapanui says the night marchers will appear. Kapanui recommends showing respect to the night marchers: Don’t go looking for them.

Yet sometimes you don’t have to try looking for them.

Ricky, a security guard at the Cades Schutte building, claims he once caught a glimpse of the night marchers during a brief trip to Waialua some 19 years ago. Ricky and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer, visited their friend Richard and his son Ryan, who were camping on Mokulē‘ia Beach. Ricky remembers the exact date: July 5, 1995. They arrived on the beach between 10 and 11 p.m. A distant flash of light caught their attention in the dark: It looked like a line of fire ants marching down the mountain by Dillingham Airfield.

“I thought people were hunting, but there was a long line of torches,” he says.

It was a strange sight at first because it looked like a endless line of torches disappearing off the mountain ridge. But he later realized those weren’t hunters, but night marchers. He recalls hearing the legend of the night marchers as a kid at YMCA Camp Erdman. One staffer always used to warn young campers about a night marchers path in the same spot he saw them. Luckily, Ricky and his friends survived to tell the tale.

He hasn’t been back to Mokulē‘ia since.

Friday Night Frights: Chilling Ghost Stories from Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout

Diane Lee — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared online in October 2014.

Photo: Diane Lee

I grew up reading Glen Grant’s Chicken Skin Tales as a kid. I often snuck off with my brother’s book, hiding in my room to read ghost stories at night. I got jealous when my brother and cousin snuck out in the middle of the night to Morgan’s Corner, Pali Lookout and other haunted spots on the Island in search of the ghosts I read about.

On Sept. 30, I finally went on my first guided ghost tour. Mysteries of Hawai‘i owner Lopaka Kapanui, who worked under the guidance of the late Glen Grant, offered to take me. I couldn’t resist. I had no luck convincing my coworkers to join me, so I dragged my friends, Dustin and Steve along with me.

We met Kapanui by the steps of the main Downtown branch of the Hawai‘i State Library, just a few minutes before 7 p.m. About 30 people were already waiting. We climbed on board a huge tour bus exactly at 7; had I arrived a few minutes later, I would’ve missed the bus.

Kapanui doesn’t like to waste any time. Through a microphone, he started telling us stories of a haunting at Stevenson Intermediate School, the legend of the night marchers and the mysterious menehune.

Most amateur ghost hunters make the rookie mistake of hanging out at graveyards, hoping to spot an orb or some ghostly figure. Kapanui says hauntings usually occur in places where people died or spent the majority of their lives. I secretly hope we don’t see anything on the tour.

Our bus driver navigated up the winding road that leads to the Nu‘uanu Pali State Wayside. He pulled the bus into the entrance. The Pali Lookout is gorgeous during the daytime, with sweeping views of the Ko‘olau Mountain Range and coastline. But at night, it’s dark and spooky.

One of the bloodiest battles in Hawai‘i’s history occurred at the Pali Lookout, where King Kamehameha I united the Hawaiian Islands. Kamemehameha’s warriors forced Maui chief Kalanikupule’s men to their deaths off the cliff. An estimated 400 warriors died in the battle, and their ghosts are said to haunt the Pali at night. But they aren’t the only ones known to haunt the place.

Before leading us inside the lookout, Kapanui recited a Hawaiian chant as a sign of respect to those who have died here. Kapanui usually offers a Hawaiian chant at haunted places, asking the spirits for permission to enter. I got goosebumps when Kapanui said it’s supposed to protect our group from harm.

Pork Over the Pali

Earlier on the bus, Kapanui had asked if anyone in our group brought char siu bao, SPAM musubi or any other pork-related products with them. When no one answered, Kapanui suggested stopping by a 7-Eleven to pick up some pork products. Immediately, some people in our group answered a resounding, “No.”

It’s a well-known Hawaiian legend that you’re not supposed to carry pork over the Pali from the windward to the leeward side, especially at night. That’s because the pig god Kamapua‘a lives on the windward side, and his ex-girlfriend, volcano goddess Pele lives on the leeward side. Because of a dispute, they agreed not to bother each other, Kapanui says. Taking pork from one side to the other side would symbolically break that agreement. Some drivers have claimed their cars mysteriously stalled on the highway, but started up after they threw the pork product out the window.

I had no intention of testing the legend myself. But others have tried to.

In early November 2007, local news reporter Walter Makaula said he wanted to bust the legend. Makaula and Kapanui stopped by a 7-Eleven to pick up manapua and pork hash. They took their new purchases to the Pali Lookout at night. Kapanui handed Makaula the food and instructed him to walk down the path with the dim sum.

“It’s your news report, go do it,” Kapanui recalls telling the Makaula.

While carrying the pork items, Makaula got chicken skin when he stopped at the invisible line from the windward to the leeward side. Kapanui yelled at him to put the food on the ground.

As soon as Makaula dropped the items—their flashlights died. A few seconds later, their flashlights came alive. As they walked back to the car, Makaula turned around and shined his light on the food.

“I swear it looked like the two pieces of pork hash were now missing, but there was no way I was going back for a closer look,” Makaula said in his news report. The story aired on KHNL on Nov. 7, 2007.

After that incident, Kapanui says he returned to the lookout to offer an apology. “Because there is something very real about that pork over the Pali,” he says.

The Ex-Girlfriend

In 2001, Kapanui brought a group to visit the Mānoa Chinese Cemetery’s haunted tree. He explained to them that swirling fireballs would appear according to the mood of people there. When Kapanui noticed a girl sitting alone by a tree, he asked if she was OK. The girl told Kapanui she was afraid something bad would happen if she went inside the tree.

The night before joining the tour, her boyfriend dumped her for another girl, who was standing underneath the haunted tree. “It’s my sister,” Kapanui recalls her saying. “I’m afraid if I go in there with everything that’s in my heart, she will probably drop dead. If you don’t mind, I’ll sit out here.”

Later, something terrible did happen—at the Pali Lookout.

“The story never made the newspapers, but for some reason, it just became too much,” Kapanui tells us. “And that poor girl from McKinley High School came out here and jumped to her death.”

Good thing her boyfriend was stupid, Kapanui says. About a year later, Charlie brought his new girlfriend to the Pali Lookout for a nighttime make out session. They take a walk around before heading back to the car. They stop at the edge of the lookout to hug, kiss and admire the sparkling city lights.

The boy freezes when he hears a distant voice, calling out his name, “Charlie. Charlie.”

The girlfriend asks, “Did you hear that?”

“Yeah, who is out here this late at night?” Charlie says.

“Down here, Charlie, come down,” the mysterious voice says.

Frightened, Charlie ran away. He jumped in the car and sped off—without his new girlfriend.

A few months ago, Charlie’s ex-new girlfriend retold the story to Kapanui when she was on his ghost tour. After that experience at the lookout, she said, Charlie was never seen or heard from again.

“Ladies, if you are seriously wanting to find out if your boyfriend is being unfaithful, you should all walk down this way past that point,” says Kapanui, pointing towards the edge of the cliff. “Apparently, the girl who committed suicide because of infidelity senses there are men who are cheating, and she calls out their name… Nervous?”

I smiled, thinking to myself: Good thing I’m single.

The tour didn’t end there.

We hopped back on the bus and drove past the infamous Morgan’s Corner. The driver pulled off the side of a deserted road in upper Nu‘uanu to our next stop: The Kaniakapupu Sacred Ruins. To get there, we trekked through the pitch dark bamboo forest that led to Kamehameha III’s summer palace ruins, a known spot for night marchers, among other creepy things.

We ended the tour at ‘Iolani Palace, which is said to haunted by the ghost of Queen Lili‘uokalani. By 9:10 p.m., we parted ways.

I walked back to my car with my friends, hoping that nothing would follow us home.

Want to hear more ghost stories? Storyteller Lopaka Kapanui will host Chicken Skin ghost tours. Visit mysteries-of-hawaii.com for details.

Read More Stories by Diane Lee