Just like freshly fallen snow, the best things never stick around for too long. ’Twas the Light Before Christmas, a first-of-its-kind immersive experience that rekindles the magic of the holidays, can only be found at the Convention Center until Dec. 31. Whether you’re planning a winter wonderland date night, an extra special holiday adventure with the family or just revel in the spirit with hot cocoa and faux snowball fights, you should buy your tickets now before they sell out.

SEE MORE: Your Insider Guide to ‘Twas the Light Before Christmas

While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to snag a little holiday magic to take home with you. Here are a few of our favorite santa-stic picks that make great gifts—for others or yourself.

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Handmade scented holiday soy candle set, $30. Holiday palm tree watercolor greeting card, $6. ’Twas the Light Before Christmas hot cocoa mug, $15. Lump of coal charcoal soap stocking stuffer, $7. Mele Kalikimaka Hawaiian ornament, $16.

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Singing elf magic wand plush, $12. Santa Belly Buddy plush, $35. Mini Squishable flocked Christmas tree, $30. Light-up snowflake wand, $12.

’Twas the Light Before Christmas, Friday, Nov. 22, through Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, Hawai‘i Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Ave., alohaimmersive.com, @twas.honolulu

Let the gourd times roll! Holy Nativity School’s 12th annual Great Pumpkin Festival Weekend is coming your way with loads of fall fun. Join them on their 4-acre ‘Aina Haina campus, with three exciting zones of fun.

THE GREAT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL returns on Saturday, October 26 ($35 per person): Your Entry Ticket Includes ALL the Fun—No Scrip Needed! Enjoy everything the festival has to offer, including face painting, an epic petting zoo from Nalo Keiki Paniolo, unlimited kiddie games, shave ice from Fine Time Shave Ice, silent disco with Hawaii Dance Bomb, our beloved pumpkin patch, character meet-and-greets with Storybook Entertainment, contests with prizes and so much more—all included with your ticket!

NEW! GOURD EATS MARKET October 26 (FREE Admission) We’re thrilled to introduce the Gourd Eats Market on the gym side of campus, a community-designed space featuring our bake sale, plant sale, country store items, pumpkins, lawn games, and a variety of food trucks. This area will be FREE to enter, and open to the public.

FLICK-OR-TREAT DRIVE-IN MOVIES October 25 — 26  ($45 per vehicle): Our legendary Drive-In returns for ONE Weekend only this year! Join us on Osco Field for Halloween favorites! Wear your costumes, eat ‘ono snacks, and enjoy a movie under the stars! Tickets are required for entry. Enjoy Inside Out 2, Hocus Pocus, Despicable Me 4, and Haunted Mansion – you don’t want to miss this!

Holy Nativity School is a small school with big experiences, a big heart, and a big reputation for excellence. Built on deep relationships and personalized attention, the HNS motto is character, heart, and excellence. Find out what makes HNS so special and how your family can start the process to join our community. The priority application deadline to Preschool-6^th grade for 2025-2026 is December 1^st.

Event info, tickets, and application info can be found at https://www.holynativityschool.org.

On Sunday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve

What’s Open

• Post offices will be open but may have atypical hours.
• Ala Moana Center, Pearlridge Center: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Windward Mall: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Ka Makana Ali‘i: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Kāhala Mall: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Times Supermarket locations: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Whole Foods Market locations: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Foodland locations: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Ward Village: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Target: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Available Services

• Mail dropped in blue collection boxes may be picked up earlier than usual, so the United States Postal Service recommends dropping it off by noon, even if listed collection times are later. Regular mail will be delivered.

Closed or Canceled Services

• All state libraries will be closed.

SEE ALSO: The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings on O‘ahu

On Monday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day

What’s Open

• The Pali and West Loch Golf Courses will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. for 18-hole play and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for nine-hole play. Kahuku Golf Course will be open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Visit honolulu.gov/des/golf for more information.
• All Zippy’s locations will be open from 6 a.m. to midnight, except Kapolei and Kailua (closing at 10 p.m.).
• All Consolidated Theatres will be open.
• Select Safeways will close by 5 or 7 p.m.

Available Services

• Emergency ambulance, fire, lifeguard, medical examiner and police services will be on duty.
• TheBus will operate on a Sunday schedule. Visit thebus.org for routes and other information.
• Skyline will operate on a holiday schedule, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit honolulu.gov/skyline for rider information.

Closed or Canceled Services

• Refuse will not be collected. Leave your gray cart curbside until it can be picked up; if you have manual refuse collection, hold onto it until your next scheduled pickup. If Monday is your usual blue or green bin day, you’ll have to hold onto your recycling and green waste until your next scheduled pickup—these days will not be made up.
• Bulky item pickup cannot be scheduled for Dec. 25.
• Transfer stations, convenience centers, H-POWER and the Waimānalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill will not be open.
• The Neal S. Blaisdell Center box office will be closed.
• The People’s Open Markets will not be held.
• All satellite city halls and driver licensing centers will be closed.
• The Honolulu Botanical Gardens, Honolulu Zoo and Hanauma Bay will be closed.
• The Ala Wai, ‘Ewa Villages and Ted Makalena golf courses will be closed.
• All state libraries will be closed.
• Ala Moana Center, Kāhala Mall, Windward Mall, Pearlridge Center, Ward Center and Ward Village will all be closed.
• Whole Foods, Times Supermarket and Foodland locations will be closed.
• Target will be closed.

Traffic and Parking Regulations

• There will be free on-street parking, excluding the meters on Kalākaua Avenue along Queen Kapi‘olani Park, metered parking lots and certain Waikīkī streets.
• Parking in Lanikai will be restricted over the long weekend from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in the Winter 2022 issue of HONOLULU Family and has been updated with the latest information and pricing.

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Have a Ball at Kids City Hawai‘i

We love a good outdoor playground, but sometimes the heat just beckons us indoors. That’s where Kids City Hawai‘i comes into play. Literally. The 30,000-square-foot indoor playground space boasts ball pits, bounce houses, interactive play stations and at the Honolulu location, a rock-climbing wall.

From $22 for two hours for children, $5 for adults, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd. and 91-5431 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, kidscityhawaii.com, @kidscityhawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Kids City Hawai‘i

SEE ALSO: Editors’ Picks: Holiday Gift Guide 2023

Photo: Courtesy Wet ’n’ Wild Hawai‘i

Go VIP at Wet ’n’ Wild Hawai‘i

Treat yourself and the keiki by reserving a VIP Hale Niu cabana for the day. Centrally located above the Hawaiian Waters Wave Pool, each hut comes with a flat-screen TV, mini fridge stocked with refreshments, mobile food ordering and so much more. Adults can relax in comfort as the little ones explore the slides, splash pads, wave pool, the lazy river and the new Lil’ Kahuna Beach.

$299 non-peak season, $399 peak season, 400 Farrington Highway, Kapolei, wetnwildhawaii.com, @wetnwildhawaii

Photo: Courtesy Wet ’n’ Wild Hawai‘i

SEE ALSO: Escape Right Here on O‘ahu

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center

Discover More at Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center

Become a member of Children’s Discovery Center and enjoy hands-on learning year-round. Membership includes free admission for one year, discounts in the center’s gift shop and kids café, free or discounted fees for workshops and special events and more. Programs target a variety of age groups: Toddler Time for keiki 18-36 months old, Preschool Play for 3- and 4-year-olds, Preschool STEAM Lab for 4- and 5-year-olds and Discovery Camps for 5- to 8-year-olds. (STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.)

Memberships from $150 for two people, 111 ‘Ohe St., discoverycenterhawaii.org, @hawaiichildrensdiscoverycenter

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center

SEE ALSO: Great Keiki Gifts From Local Brands We Love

Be Inspired at KidzArt Hawai‘i and Club Scientific

Keiki can bring out their inner artist at KidzArt Hawai‘i and Club Scientific. Sign up for single art and science classes that take place after school, in the mornings and on weekends, or opt for an extended learning experience by choosing a camp session. Seasonal themes center around Thanksgiving foods, winter celebrations and gingerbread houses, to name just a few. What’s more? There’s a Parents Night Out offering every third Friday of the month, where keiki can make art and learn problem-solving skills, while parents enjoy some alone time!

From $55, 93 N. Kainalu Drive, Room 102, Kailua, kidzart.com/franchise/windward, @kidzarthawaii

Photo: Courtesy of KidzArt Hawai‘i

SEE ALSO: We Tried It: Gem Studio Jewelry-Making Workshop

Photo: Courtesy of Kahuku Farms

Tour the 100-Year-Old Kahuku Farms

Head to the country for a one-hour tour of Kahuku Farms, a family operation that’s been nourishing Hawai‘i’s people for more than 100 years. A tractor-pulled wagon takes you through the fields, and you’ll learn about farming practices, techniques and what it really takes to get fresh food on the shelves of your favorite local grocery stores. You’ll get to taste freshly picked, in-season fruits and even some chocolate made from cacao grown on the farm. Before or after the tour, you’re going to want to try the good eats at the farm’s onsite café.

$50 for adults and teens, $40 for children ages 5–12, children 4 and under are free, optional $4 food sampling charge, 56-800 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, kahukufarms.com, @kahukufarms

Photo: Courtesy of Dole Plantation

Explore Dole Plantation by Train

Play tourist for the day and hop aboard Dole Plantation’s Pineapple Express (or Aloha Express, ‘Ohana Express or Lady Liberty)! After all, the pineapple plantation is full of history—it’s the actual site where James Drummond Dole laid the foundation for his world-famous agricultural empire. The 20-minute narrated train ride takes you on a scenic tour showcasing the beauty of the area.

$13 for kama‘āina and military adults, $11.75 for ages 4–12, kids 3 years and younger are free when accompanied by an adult, 64-1550 Kamehameha Highway, Wahiawā, doleplantation.com, @doleplantation

Photo: Courtesy of Kualoa Ranch

Mālama ‘Āina at Kualoa Ranch

Keiki 5 years and older and adults can spend a few hours at an ahupua‘a (land division), learning the importance of sustainability. You’ll also learn about kalo, its importance to Hawaiians and its significance to Kualoa Ranch. The two-hour eco-adventure can include thatching for Hawaiian hale, harvesting kalo or taking care of medicinal plants, depending on the needs of the day. Either way, expect to get your hands dirty, tending to the land. Be prepared—it feels good to give back.

$51.95 for adults, $36.95 for keiki (5–12), 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne‘ohe, kualoaranch.com, @kualoaranch

Girls’ Day, or Hinamatsuri, the Japanese holiday honoring women and girls, is right around the corner on March 3. To help you celebrate we rounded up a ton of great gift ideas, perfect for your friends, family, keiki, co-workers and yourself!

Gifts for Keiki:

Photo: Shop Toast

Creature Kokeshi

These sweet little wood kokeshi from Honolulu company Shop Toast do double duty as collectible dolls and adorable containers for Hinamatsuri candy.

Manekineko Stump, Bunny Stump, Poi Dog Stump, $7 each. Shop Toast, 3434 Wai‘alae Ave. #3, (808) 477-9233, shoptoast.com, @shoptoast

Photos: Valia Honolulu

Amigurumi Treats

Perfect for future foodies, these locally made crochet toys top the cute chart.

Siu Mai Amigurumi, $15 each, Shave Ice Amigurumi, $22, Boba Amigurumi, $22, Bao Bun Amigurumi, $15 each, Lau Lau Amigurumi, $18. Valia Honolulu, 1140 Bethel St., (808) 208-8585, valiahonolulu.com, @valiahonolulu

Photos: Gita Abbott Photo, Courtesy of Keiki Kaukau

A Hawai‘i-Inspired Pop-Up Dollhouse

This delightful local-style dollhouse book from O‘ahu toy company Keiki Kaukau includes five darling figurines and four rooms in Hale Laule‘a for little ones to explore.

Hale Laule‘a Pop-Up Dollhouse, $32. keikikaukau.com, @keikikaukau

Photos: Crocs

Cool Shoe Charms

Kick up the cool factor on her Crocs with girl power-inspired charms.

From left: Celebrate Women 5-pack Jibbitz charms, $19.99, Girls Rock Jibbitz charm, $6.99, Go Girl 5-Pack Jibbitz charm set, $19.99. crocs.com, @crocs

Photos: SoHa Keiki/SoHa Living

Sunny Delights

Treat your little miss sunshine to a pair or two of these tiny shades from Honolulu company SoHa Keiki, all but sure to elicit a few o-m-squees!

Rainbow and Cloud sunglasses, $12.80, Quant Flower sunglasses, $15.80. SoHa Keiki, Kāhala Mall, (808) 466-8878. sohaliving.com, @sohakeiki

SEE ALSO: Why We Eat Mochi and Display Dolls on Girls’ Day in Hawai‘i

For Adults:

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Sweet Sentiments

Say cheers with a box (or four!) of Sugarfina’s playful gummy candies.

But First, Rose Roses Candy Cube, Bubbly Bears Candy Cube, Sugar Lips Candy Cube, all $8.95 each. sugarfina.com, @sugarfina

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Chic Sips

Scoop up a couple of these stylish mugs as tokens of appreciation for your office (Zoom counts too!) besties.

Sarah Gordon mugs, Lauren McIntosh mug, $16 each. anthropologie.com, @anthropologie

Photos: Aloha Collection

Tropical Pouches

No matter how many are in her closet, there’s always room for one more Aloha Collection pouch, especially if it features one of the local label’s new mu‘umu‘u or orchid prints.

Tūtū Mini Pouch, Mu‘umu‘u Mini Pouch, $24 each. Aloha Collection, Moana Surfrider, 2369 Kālakaua Ave., Diamond Head  Wing Shop #1, alohacollection.com, @alohacollection

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Floral Finishing Touches

Simple-yet-sweet with a bit of a ’90s vibe.

Daisy Claw Clip, $14.50, Printed Flower Claw Clip, $22, Four-Pack Groovy Hair Pins, $18.50. madewell.com, @madewell

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Her-Story Books

Snap up books and guided journals that offer inspiration at every turn.

Do It For Yourself: A Motivational Journal, $16.99, Women Making Waves: Trailblazing Surfers In and Out of the Water by Laura Einzig, $35. In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from Over 100 Makers, Artists and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney, $19.95. barnesandnoble.com, @barnesandnoble

SEE ALSO: Where to Find Mochi & Other Sweet Treats for Girls’ Day in Honolulu

Every product you read about at HONOLULU has been independently chosen by our editors to help you find the best of our city and state. Items you purchase using our links may earn us a commission.

There are just a few more days until Valentine’s Day. And though you may have already gotten your kids’ classroom Valentine’s Day cards or goodie bags (does it ever end?!), have you gotten them a gift? No, of course you don’t have to, but if you are looking for something sweet—literally—we’ve rounded up some treats and special items perfect to show them some extra love. Plus, we’re highlighting a few activities you and your whole ‘ohana can enjoy.

2023 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Kids

Photo: Robbie Dingeman

Chocolate for Keiki

Chocolate maker/founder Dylan Butterbaugh’s eyes sparkle as he quickly selects which Mānoa Chocolate creation will make a great gift for the children on our Valentine’s Day lists. He grabs a jar of Chocolate Macadamia spread ($15).  “This one,” he says. One mom buys four 9-ounce jars each visit because her 8-year-old daughter likes the creamy nutty spread that much. “She eats it with a spoon,” he says. With ingredients that consist primarily of macadamia nuts and dark chocolate, it’s a tasty and pretty nutritious snack. —Robbie Dingeman, Editor at Large HONOLULU Magazine

Mānoa Chocolate, 333 Uluniu St., Kailua, manoachocolate.com, @manoachocolate

Photo: Courtesy of A Cake Life

Valentine’s Day Cookie Cards

Give your little love an oh-so-cute cookie cards. There’s three to choose from, including a s’more designed sugar cookie, chocolate kiss and a sweet little honey bee.

A Cake Life, 2320 South King St., acakelife.com, @acakelife

Photo: Courtesy of Via Gelato

Heart Sprinkles (!) at Via Gelato

Via Gelato’s flavor of the month is a decadent Strawberry Tuxedo Cake, but we think keiki will be most interested in the sprinkles! For the entire month of February, heart sprinkles will be available, and *free* on Valentine’s Day!

Via Gelato, 1142 12th Ave., viagelatohawaii.com, @viagelatohawaii

Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Monarchs

Paradise Monarchs Valentine’s Day Chrysalis Box

These meaningful and unique gifts are great for little ones to experience the transformation of their very own monarch butterfly. The magical metamorphosis symbolizes happiness, beauty, hope and renewal. Watching the release is not only beautiful—it also helps promote the wild monarch butterfly population in Hawai‘i. How sweet is that?

paradisemonarchs.com, @paradisemonarchs

Photo: Stacey Makiya

Choco le‘a Bear Hug Bundle

Nothing is more snuggly than a teddy bear and the only way to sweeten this gift is to give it with gummy bears. Dark chocolate-covered gummy bears, that is!

Choco Le‘a, 2909 Lowrey Ave., chocolea.com, @chocoleahawaii

Photo: Stacey Makiya

Sweet Somethings at SoHa Keiki

As you probably already know, SoHa Keiki has the cutest assortment of kids’ home decor, accessories and toys. Every time we step into the cheery boutique there’s something new to discover, but the playful products and home items on display during the holidays make it an especially exciting time to visit. Pillows with sweet sentiments like “All We Need is Aloha,” confetti heart stickers and customizable love notes are just some examples of Valentine’s Day gifts that would delight your little loved ones.

SoHa Keiki, 600 Kailua Rd., Suite 117, Kailua and Kāhala Mall, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., sohaliving.com, @sohakeiki

SEE ALSO: ❤️ Amazing Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas From Local Businesses and Designers

2023 Keiki-Friendly Valentine’s Day Experiences on O‘ahu

Free Valentine’s Day Photos with The Lei Bus

You and your loved ones can capture a Valentine’s Day photo in a vintage VW bus decked out in sweet V-day decor. fun picture with friends. Bring your own phone or camera to capture the moment. The “Lei Bus” staff will also be onsite to take a photo for you. “The Lei Bus” is a vintage VW bus that will be decked-out with beautiful Valentine’s Day themed décor and set-up near Macy’Bring your own camera or camera phone.

Saturday, Feb. 11, noon to 3 p.m.; near Macy’s, Kāhala Mall, 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., kahalamallcenter.com, @theleibus

Free Photos with Theo the Bus Hawai‘i

Bring your keiki and snap a pic with Theo the Bus. BYOC (bring your own camera), but know that staff can assist you with the photography.

Saturday, Feb. 11 and Sunday, Feb. 12, 1 to 7 p.m.; Kapolei Commons, 4450 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, theothebus.com, @theothebushawaii

Valentine’s Day Fun at Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center

Celebrate love day with your little sweethearts. Keiki can explore the Valentine’s Day activities.

Tuesday, Feb. 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hawai‘i Children’s Discovery Center, 11 Ohe St., discoverycenterhawaii.org, @hawaiichildrensdiscoverycenter

“Love Takes Flight” at Sea Life Park

Surprise your kiddos with the gift of a special event. “Love Takes Flight,” at Sea Life Park is a celebration of Love Birds. Aside from learning about these birds and other feathered friends, keiki can flock (ha) to the themed crafts, games, shave ice, local vendors and more.

Admission for up to two keiki (12 and under) is free with every paid adult admission, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, Sea Life Park, 41-202 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, sealifeparkhawaii.com, @sealifepark

What: An annual holiday light show with new attractions like train rides, a snow room, bounce houses and much more.

Who: A 6-year-old, a 3-year-old and their parents

Where: Aloha Stadium, 99-500 Salt Lake Blvd.

When: Saturday night at 5:30 p.m.

Photo: Maria Kanai

Our family wanted to go to Show Aloha Land when we first heard about it, but we were honestly a little daunted by the new ticket prices. While in previous years it was about $50 per vehicle for the drive through, they added new attractions this year like a zip line, holiday train rides, a snow room, a bubble room, pictures with Santa, walk-through light show and bounce houses. While everything sounded magical and amazing, that meant the unlimited tickets were $39.95 per person, including keiki over ages two. For our family of four, that meant $160 for tickets.

We were considering the other ticket option, which is the drive-through only experience at $46.95 per vehicle. Then, good news: a friend won two unlimited tickets on a social media giveaway and she had already gone, so she was kind enough to pass them to us. (Thanks, Pri!) The free tickets brought down the price enough for us to go check out Show Aloha Land on a Saturday evening.

Anna and Noah on Xavier Express, Photo: Maria Kanai

We ate an early dinner at home and arrived at Aloha Stadium around 5:30 p.m. It was easy to find parking and it wasn’t too dark yet. There was no line for Xavier’s Express, where four trains run all night. We had the feeling it would get crowded soon, so we jumped on a blue train right away. It was so cute, a miniature train lined with lights and with padded seats. Anna and Noah loved it and had huge smiles on their faces the entire time. The conductor also kept it fun, driving the train in S-shapes and loops along the path. We passed illuminated Christmas trees and candy canes and entered a lit-up tunnel. The whole ride was a little less than 10 minutes long and we decided we’d ride it again when it got darker.

Afterwards, we walked towards Rudolph’s Bouncer Land. By then, it was closer to 6 p.m. and foot traffic was definitely increasing. My two kids’ eyes got bigger and bigger as they took it all in: there were 15 bounce houses of every shape, size and theme; a monster truck, excavator, princess castle, zoo, fire truck, unicorn and school, to name a few. Stanchions space out sections of the bounce houses for crowd control. “I want to bounce on all of them!” shouted Anna, while my husband laughed and said, “This is like a birthday party on steroids.”

Photo: Maria Kanai

We were there for at least an hour, tracking our kids as they kicked their shoes off and bounced, slid and scream-laughed the whole time. My husband and I had to drag our kids away to Blitzen’s Snow Paradise.

There was a long line at this tent and we were waiting for about half an hour before we got in. There’s a snow machine that cleans up the snow before you entered, but Noah enjoyed the snow more than Anna, who got bummed out by falling and slipping on the snow several times. Overall, it was still a cool experience. I spotted a few families making a snow man and other kids having snowball fights. Next, we checked out Vixen’s Bubble Zone and both of our kids chased bubbles and made a game out of popping as many bubbles as they could.

Santa! Photo: Maria Kanai

We’d already taken pictures with Santa at other holiday events, so we ended up skipping the Santa photo experience. Plus, the line was quite long. We also skipped Comet’s 100-foot Zipline— although it looked fun! You zip down 100 feet and land on a giant inflatable that absorbs your impact. You must be 52-inches or taller and weigh less than 250 pounds to use the zipline.

Photo: Maria Kanai

Photo: Maria Kanai

Instead, we took a stroll through the Tunnel of Joy, a colorful tunnel lit up with LED lights and music. Afterwards, our kids wanted one last round of bouncing. We ran into Anna’s school friend and ended up spending another hour there. By then our kids seemed to be fading, so we headed back to the ride the train one more time. Unfortunately, by then, the lines were crazy long! So, we headed back to the car for the drive-through light show. The show was about 20 minutes long and begins with Santa waving at you before you start on the path. Staff were selling popcorn to vehicles at $10 per bag.

Christmas lights and festive music are two of my favorite things about the holidays, so I personally loved the drive-through. The kids loved it, too. Christmas trees, candy canes, reindeer, penguins and Santa illuminations twinkle, change colors and shift in beat to Show Aloha Land’s dedicated radio channel 105.9 FM, which we had playing in the car. After the high-energy fun at Show Aloha Land, the drive-through was a relaxing and calming change of pace. It got us into what we like to call the Christmas glow—that warm fuzzy feeling that we love about Christmas.

My takeaway: If the tickets fit your budget, Show Aloha Land is worth it, especially since everything is included in the price. Here are my tips if you want to make the most of your experience.

Photo: Maria Kanai

Our Tips

1. 1. 1. 1. Go early. It can get crowded by 6 p.m. I wish we went at 4:30 p.m., did the bounce houses first, then made the time to do train rides afterwards when it got darker. We chatted with one staff member, who told us that Saturdays are the busiest nights of the week. Sundays are less crowded and so are the weekdays. However, things might change with winter break starting.
         2. Bring gloves for the snow room. The snow was a little hard and too cold for my two kids to play for too long without gloves.
         3. Everything is stroller friendly! There is a space where you can stash your strollers for the train rides and snow room.
            
         4. Keep a close eye on the kids. It’s easy to lose sight of them especially in the bounce house area. It might be a good idea to have a “meet-up” spot in case they do get lost. I recommend the “Mega Tree” since you can’t miss it: a gigantic lit up Christmas tree in the center of Show Aloha Land. .
         5. Consider putting little ones in slippers. Your kids need to take off their shoes at the bounce houses, so it might be easier to get in and out if they wear slippers, instead of dealing with little ones putting shoes off and on.
         6. Don‘t go hungry, and if you do, again, go early. There’s lots of good food on the menu at Dasher’s Food Court. By 6 p.m., there was a long line for food and drinks. Cupid’s Bar offers beer, wine and mix drinks at $5 each. If you want to save money and time, your best bet might be to eat at home or to bring your own food (yes, it’s allowed!).

    

$39.95 for anyone over 2 years (includes all attractions and drive-through), $46.95 for drive-through only. Show Aloha Land will be running through Dec. 31. Tickets are available at showalohaland.com, @showalohaland

I f you’re still on the hunt for that perfect gift for your child, their favorite teacher, your auntie, your work bestie—anyone!—look to Paradise Monarchs.

Gifts from Paradise Monarchs are the best of both worlds—tangible and experiential. Keiki (or whomever the recipient is) gets to physically open the gift and delight in its beauty, and they also get to watch as the caterpillar transforms into a butterfly. Then, the act of releasing the butterfly is yet another joyful experience.

Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Monarchs

A Holiday Live Monarch Butterfly Chrysalis Box can help keiki develop an appreciation for nature, as they have an up-close look at their metamorphosis. Plus, caregivers will have plenty of teachable moments throughout the process.

The personalized boxes contain a monarch butterfly chrysalis that recipients are able to nurture as it transforms. Though it should be noted that the chrysalis requires minimal care (no feeding necessary), so it’s great for all ages. The boxes—which are made with eco-friendly and recyclable materials—include detailed information on how to care and release your butterfly.

SEE ALSO: 🎄 The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings on O‘ahu

Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Monarchs

For a more luxurious option, this year Paradise Monarchs introduced a Chrysalis Tree which includes a dozen live monarch butterfly chrysalis encompassed inside a beautiful glass dome with LED lighting. Imagine this as a showstopping centerpiece on your holiday table!

If you’re not familiar, Paradise Monarchs is an O‘ahu-based company that began in September 2020. Owner Henry Fang started raising butterflies and after many releases and much research, he decided to share this magical experience with the community.

As butterflies are often associated with new beginnings and transformations, these gifts are a great way to ring in the holidays and New Year. Not to mention, with conservation at the forefront of this small business, the gift of a butterfly is a gentle reminder to mālama ‘āina.

Find these gifts and more at pop-up shops around the island (view the schedule here), or pre-order online. Items are usually ready in about 24 hours and pick-up is at Paradise Monarchs’ home office near Ka Makana Ali‘i, paradisemonarchs.com, @paradisemonarchs

What: A double-decker trolley ride through historic Downtown to see the Honolulu City Lights

Who: A 6-year-old, 5-year-old and a 3-year-old and their parents

Where: Pickup is at Victoria Ward Park, 1020 Auahi St.

When: A Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m.

Photo: Maria Kanai

Our family loves everything about Christmas—singing carols, putting up the tree, seeing holiday lights and celebrating the birth of baby Jesus. But truth time: I get tiny bit Grinchy when I see our fridge calendar fill up with nonstop parties and potlucks for the month of December. It’s the introvert in me, I guess.

I was, however, truly looking forward to the Honolulu Lights Tour! We checked it out last year and our kids loved the experience of riding an open-air bus and singing carols together with fellow passengers while admiring the gorgeous lights. And all the parents had to do was sit on a bus! It was chill, cheerful and low-key—everything on my family adventure checklist.

Photo: Maria Kanai

This year, we were especially excited to hear about their expanded Winter Wonderland experience, which included keiki-friendly activities in the ticket price. We arrived early at 6 p.m. and easily found free parking at Whole Foods. We walked over to Ward Village on Auahi Street on the Ewa side of Ward Entertainment Center. The twinkling holiday lights, giant inflatables and large white tent were easy to spot.

After meeting our friends and checking in, we were given wristbands and the kids happily entered the tent. My youngest son Noah had passed out in the car so we carried him while my older child Anna and her friend James headed towards the back of the tent where Santa Claus and the Grinch were available for photos. There, an elf is there to take a picture for you with your phone. Santa asked Anna what she wanted for Christmas and the Grinch rolled his eyes and asked us to get the photos over with. The kids loved how in-character they were!

Photo: Maria Kanai

Afterwards, everyone played a bean bag toss game to earn free candy canes. A line began forming outside by the trolley at 6:15 p.m., so two adults in our group went ahead and lined up so that the kids could continue enjoying activities. Anna and James got free temporary sticker tattoos, and we enjoyed the piping hot cocoas topped with whipped cream, marshmallows and crushed peppermint that cost just 50 cents. Toys such as monster trucks, glow sticks and grabber sticks were available for sale $2, and jarred hot cocoa ingredients for $5.

Photo: Priscilla Stafford

Noah woke up just in time as we joined the line and headed to the top level of the trolley. He was thrilled to see Santa and the Grinch making their way next to the trolley and waving goodbye. Then, we were off!

Photo: Maria Kanai

Photo: Priscilla Stafford

Our driver played holiday music as we made our way towards Honolulu Hale and encouraged us to sing along. It was lovely. Our kids got into the spirit as they waved and shouted “Merry Christmas!” to people on the street and those in the cars next to us. They made a game of seeing who would shout “Merry Christmas!” in return.

Photo: Jasmine Chagnon

Anna’s favorite decorated building was ‘Iolani Palace with its lantern lights, and the dramatic red illumination of Hamilton at Neal Blaisdell. After about 30 minutes, we reached Honolulu Hale and passed the iconic Shaka Santa, Tūtū Mele and other displays at the Honolulu City Lights.

At around 7 p.m., our driver informed us that we were free to explore the displays on foot and he would pick us up at 8 p.m. The other option is to stay on the trolley and head back. Since it was a school night, we decided to stay on the trolley. Several folks got off the bus, so Anna and James got to switch sides and sit somewhere else for a new view.

Upon our return, we tipped the bus driver and our kids ran around at Victoria Park for a while before we called it a night. It was the most stress-free, fun activity for our family and an awesome way to get into the holiday spirit. This was our second year in a row and we plan to make it a family tradition.

Photo: Priscilla Stafford

Our Tips

1. 1. Give yourself at least half an hour to enjoy the Winter Wonderland experience either before or after the trolley ride. The trolley ride is an hour roundtrip and if you want to explore the Hale, plan to be there for an extra hour.
   2. If you want good seats, arrive early to get in line for the trolley. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Try to get seats on the left side of the upper level for the best views.
   3. Bring a sweater or jacket. It can be breezy especially on the second level. The tour runs rain or shine, so if it’s predicted to rain, wear a rain jacket.
      
   4. Tickets are going fast, so don’t hesitate! You can purchase them online at holidaylightshi.com/tickets.

$25 for adults, $17 for keiki ages 3 to 11, and children 2 and under are free. The tour will take place every day through Dec. 26 and rides will be available on Christmas Day. holidaylightshi.com, @holidaylightshi

Choices, people! Check out more than 40 options below, for everything from Christmas cookies and charcuterie to full dine-in or takeout dinners. As more restaurants and eateries come out with holiday offerings, we’ll add them to those below—or publish them in next week’s Part 2. Either way, just click on the image to find out more.

SEE ALSO: Holiday 2022 Menus at O‘ahu Restaurants: Part 2

53 by the Sea

Kaka‘ako

Aloha Beer

Kaka‘ako

Arancino at The Kāhala

Kāhala

Basalt Waikīkī

Waikīkī

Buho Cocina y Cantina

Waikīkī

A Cake Life

Mō‘ili‘ili

Cake M

Pawa‘a

Deck Waikīkī

Waikīkī

Feast

Mānoa

Fig & Ginger

McCully

Foodland Hawai‘i

Multiple locations

Haus of Fusion

Kaimukī

Hideout at the Laylow

Waikīkī

Ige’s Halawa Lunch & Catering

Halawa

Ige’s Lunchwagon & Catering

‘Aiea

J & S Lumpia Spot

Salt Lake

Kapa Hale

Kāhala

Kulu Kulu

Multiple locations

La Gelateria

Pawa‘a

La Tour Café

Multiple locations

The Local General Store

Online

Made by Aliyoko

Online

Malu Honolulu

Ke‘eaumoku

Mango Street Grill

Wahiawā

Marian’s Catering

Wahiawā

Moana Surfrider

Waikīkī

Nico’s Upstairs at Pier 38

Multiple locations

Olive Branch

Online

Paradise Pawz

Kailua

Poke Stop

Multiple locations

Redfish Poke

Kaka‘ako

Rinka Restaurant

Kaka‘ako

Side Street Inn

Kapahulu

Sunny Side Bakery

Wahiawā

Tanioka’s Seafood & Catering

Waipahu

Via Gelato

Kaimukī

Waikīkī Chocolates

Waikīkī

Wolfgang’s Waikīkī

Waikīkī

Yo Mama’s Mochi & Snacks

Online

Zippy’s

Multiple locations

SEE ALSO: Holiday 2022 Menus at O‘ahu Restaurants: Part 2