FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

November 14, 2025 

 

News, Updates and Aloha from O'ahu 

(November 2025, Quarter 4) 

 

O'AHU — E komo mai! In 'ōlelo Hawai'i (Hawaiian language) these words mean, “Welcome!” And you are always welcome to visit Oʻahu, Hawai'i's third-largest island, known by the nickname, the Gathering Place. As the holiday season approaches, Oʻahu transforms into its own unique kind of winter paradise. This year, we invite you to experience O'ahu's “Winter Season of Legends: Waves, Warmth and Wonder.” 

 

This year's winter season leads into the 50th anniversary of professional surfing on the island's legendary North Shore, cementing Oʻahu's place as the epicenter of the surfing world. You'll witness the world's best surfers taking on the year's biggest waves as 2025'ssurf competition season kicks off. But waves are just the beginning. 

 

The warmth of Hawai'i's aloha spirit also shines through during the holiday season, from the island's dazzling Honolulu City Lights display to festive community celebrations. Discover the wonder of O'ahu with whale watching, hiking trails and the vibrant flavors of local cuisine at holiday lū'au and dining events. 

 

Whether you're traveling with keiki (children), kūpuna (elders) or friends, Oʻahu blends history, nature, city energy and beach-time calm, making it the ideal island to reconnect, recharge and celebrate on this winter. Explore the newest events, experiences and one-of-a-kind adventures that make Oʻahu getaways legendary. 

 

SEASONAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS 

 

54th Annual Holiday Craft Fair  

One of Honolulu's oldest craft fairs, this event at Hawaiian Mission Houses is a showcase of local-made art and craft work, featuring more than 40 Hawai'i-based vendors and 100% crafted-in-Hawai'i goods. From hand-blown glass and custom jewelry to woodwork, pottery, artistic silk scarves, photography and original artwork, shoppers will discover treasures perfect for holiday gift giving. You can also make your time at the craft fair extra special by reserving one of four 75-minute guided Hawaiian Mission Houses tours, including a look at its historic printing press, which produced some of the earliest Hawaiian language documents. The fair is set for December 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. MissionHouses.org 

 

10th Annual Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace  

The public is invited to celebrate the season at this Honolulu holiday shopping event at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, on December 13 and 14. A one-stop local holiday shop, the marketplace spotlights more than 300 local vendors showcasing made-in-Hawaiʻi gifts, crafts, apparel, gourmet treats and more. Shoppers will find seasonal specials while supporting Hawaiʻi's small businesses and local creators. MeleKalikimakaMarketplace.com  

 

Bishop Museum 

The Kaiwiʻula Night Market at Bishop Museum, set for December 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., is a holiday shopping event under evening skies, featuring food vendors, local artisans and live music. Attendees can also adopt native plants for free at the event through the musuem's partnership with Grow Aloha, a collection of plant adoption partners working together to restore native Hawaiian plants and expand the public's relationship with them in urban areas. Bishop Museum is a proud Grow Aloha partner and O'ahu plant adoption site. @kaiwiulanightmarket. 

 

Honolulu Holiday Lights Tour 

Celebrate the season with this holiday lights tour, presented daily by Waikiki Trolley from November 20 to December 30. Guests hop on a double-decker trolley to explore historic downtown Honolulu, with hop-on, hop-off access to the Honolulu City Lights displays at Honolulu Hale. The tour experience also includes a Winter Wonderland with photo opportunities, games, and arts and crafts. HolidayLightsHawaii.com 

 

Fête 

James Beard Award-winning restaurant Fête is introducing a spice-infused lineup of fall and winter cocktails for the holiday season. Guests can try new menu additions like The Tea, a refreshing, citrus-infused take on a classic Orange Julius, and the Winter Thai'd, a salty, tangy and slightly spicy punch featuring bay leaf-infused 'ōkolehao spirit, curry syrup and pickled carrots. FeteHawaii.com 

 

Royal Hawaiian Center 

Royal Hawaiian Center will launch its celebration of the holiday season on November 26 at 5 p.m. in The Royal Grove with an event featuring a performance by Storybook Entertainment, the grand arrival of Aloha Santa and the lighting of the center's 34-foot Hawai'i-inspired holiday tree. Guests can also enjoy keiki (kids) hula, live entertainment and free photos with Aloha Santa. RoyalHawaiianCenter.com 

 

Santa's Surf Shack at Ala Moana Center 

Celebrate the holidays at Ala Moana Center with festive entertainment, community giving and photos at Santa's Surf Shack from November 3 through December 24. Families can visit Santa from November 21, enjoy Pet Photo Nights and mail letters at Big Santa's Mailbox. Shoppers spending $500 or more will receive a limited-edition tote and keychain while supplies last. AlaMoanaCenter.com 

 

Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort 

Sheraton Waikiki is celebrating the holidays with its annual signature sand-sculpture installation, a coastal twist on the season. A sand-sculpture artist will utilize over 25 tons of sand to create a life-size lobby display blending Hawai'i motifs and holiday season cheer. Guests can also enjoy Santa's outrigger canoe arrival and capture photos of holiday moments. Marriott.com  

 

Surf Santa 

Celebrate the holidays North Shore-style at this free community event at Haleʻiwa Store Lots. Set for noon to 2 p.m. on December 14 in the shopping area's Kamehamalu Courtyard, the event welcomes guests to snap photos with Surf Santa while enjoying live holiday music and entertainment in a festive atmosphere. HaleiwaStoreLots.com 

  

CELEBRATE KĀNAKA MAOLI (NATIVE HAWAIIAN) CULTURE  & MADE IN HAWAI'I 

 

Bishop Museum 

Held on the second Saturday of each month at Bishop Museum, Kanikapila ma Kaiwiʻula invites visitors to enjoy a lively ʻukulele jam session from 10 a.m. to noon, free with museum admission. Guests are encouraged to bring their own ʻukulele or borrow one on-site and join members of the ʻUkulele Guild of Hawaiʻi in learning new techniques, sharing moʻolelo (stories) and celebrating the joy of Hawaiian music. The session features songs from “He Mele Aloha: A Hawaiian Songbook,” available for purchase at the museum's Shop Pacifica. The event is a fun cultural experience for musicians and music lovers. BishopMuseum.org 

 

Farm Link Hawai'i 

Farm Link Hawai'i has opened its first-ever brick-and-mortar location, Hō'ili'ili Market, a space dedicated to celebrating Hawai'i's farmers, producers and the collective work of building a resilient local food system. More than a grocery store, Hō'ili'ili Market is an extension of Farm Link's mission of connecting people to the source of their food and to each other. Guests can expect daily tastings featuring local ingredients, prepared food offerings led by Farm Link's culinary specialist Robert Santos, and co-created Hawaiʻi-based goods from collaborations between farmers and producers. FarmLinkHawaii.com 

 

Lonohana Estate Chocolate 

Lonohana Estate Chocolate is bringing its 100% Hawai'i-grown chocolate to Waikīkī this holiday season with a pop-up shop at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa. Open from early November through the end of the year, the shop welcomes guests to explore a selection of handcrafted chocolate bars and seasonal treats. Staff will be on-site to share the company's “tree-to-bar” story, sustainable farming practices and flavors of chocolate made entirely in Hawai'i. Lonohana.com  

  

EXPERIENCES: ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS 

 

Atlantis Adventures 

Experience Hawai'i's whale watching season with Atlantis Cruises, offering daily tours from December 26 through March 31. Guests will journey aboard the 150-foot Majestic, which features advanced Seakeeper technology. An on-board naturalist shares insights on humpback whale behavior, and every tour includes a whale guarantee, offering a complimentary return cruise if whales are not sighted. MajesticHawaii.com/WhaleWatch 

 

Haleiwa Distilling Company 

Visitors to Haleiwa Distilling Company can explore the art and science of spirit-making through guided distillery tours revealing every step of the process, from raw ingredients to the finished bottle. Guests gain insight into the company's ingredient sourcing, the history of distillation and the craftsmanship behind each product. Following the tour, a tasting session invites participants to sample locally crafted spirits such as Hawaii Mana Rum, often paired with local snacks and cocktail recommendations. Guides and the company's master distiller lead each experience, offering thoughtful insights. HaleiwaDistillingCo.com  

 

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve 

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is launching a new concession aimed at increasing accessibility, with bookings beginning November 1 for visits starting in December. The concession will provide a streamlined way for guests to visit the preserve through a new partnership with Roberts Hawaii. Key features include a package with round-trip electric bus transportation from Waikīkī and guaranteed entry to the preserve, with the preserve's required-viewing educational video conveniently shown during the ride. Select ticket packages will also include tickets to the Honolulu Zoo. RobertsHawaii.com 

 

Honolulu Zoo 

The Honolulu Zoo has launched its first-ever digital ticketing system, allowing guests to purchase tickets in advance for a smoother and faster arrival. Visitors can now show their digital tickets on a mobile device for quick entry, reducing wait times. This upgrade is a partnership with the City and County of Honolulu and SSA Group. In-person ticket-purchasing remains available at the front gate. HonoluluZoo.org 

 

'Iolani Palace 

'Iolani Palace has placed several specialty tours on hold through the end of 2026 due to an ongoing renovation. The palace's ongoing tours, including the "Hawai'i's Royal Connection To Japan Tour," remain available for guests, however the Kalākaua Legacy Tour, Fashion Fit for Royalty, and Chamberlain's Tour are not currently offered. IolaniPalace.org 

 

Kapolei Golf Club 

Experience the all-new Kapolei Golf Club Pro Shop, a completely reimagined space that aims to blend contemporary elegance with island-inspired warmth. The shop features modern fixtures and visual displays and an expanded apparel boutique with premier brands such as Sun Day Red, Peter Millar and G/FORE. “Aloha zones” throughout the shop highlight local-crafted gifts, accessories and golf gear. KapoleiGolf.com 

 

Kumu Kahua Theatre 

Explore local stories at Kumu Kahua Theatre as it presents its 55th season in downtown Honolulu. The season's dynamic lineup includes “Outlandish” (November 6 - December 7), following trailblazing reporter Isabella Bird's time in 1870s Hawaiʻi. The season continues with the mother-son road trip production “Two Nails, One Love” (January 22 - February 22) and “Blu's Hanging” (March 26 - April 26), an adaptation of Hawai'i author Lois Ann Yamanaka's novel. KumuKahua.org 

 

Lonohana Estate Chocolate 

Explore the “seed-to-bar” process at Lonohana Estate Chocolate, which now offers Japanese-language factory tours every Wednesday morning. Guests are guided through its Honolulu factory — a renovated 1930s movie theater — to witness how the company grows its own cacao on the North Shore and crafts it into 100% Hawai'i-grown chocolate. The interactive tour concludes with a curated tasting of Lonohana Estate's award-winning chocolate bars. Lonohana.com 

 

Manoa Chocolate 

Manoa Chocolate's cacao beans were recently awarded among the 50 best in the world at the Cacao of Excellence Awards, with four partner farms—including Kamananui and Honoli'i Orchards—receiving recognition. Visitors can experience this "bean-to-bar" quality firsthand at the Kailua factory, which offers daily complimentary tastings and guided tours. For a "tree-to-bar" experience, Manoa also offers tours at its award-winning Kamananui Cacao Orchards on O'ahu's North Shore. ManoaChocolate.com 

 

Royal Hawaiian Center 

Royal Hawaiian Center is welcoming five new merchants, enhancing its retail and culinary lineup. Oʻahu's first Melin headwear store opened October 10 and the center's first fitness concept, Lagree O'ahu will open in December. A grab-and-go Island Vintage Coffee II will also arrive this year, with an interactive Kona Coffee Visitor's Center and Jalapeños 808 planned for 2026. RoyalHawaiianCenter.com 

 

Sea Life Park Hawai'i 

Two seasonal events are coming to Sea Life Park Hawai'i in 2026. From January through March, guests can join in on land-based whale watching on Saturdays and Sundays, featuring early entry, a whale talk and viewing from the park's Seaside Gardens for $15 per person. Later in 2026, the park will welcome the return of its annual holiday-themed Aloha Kai Lū'au throughout December, featuring entertainment, cultural activities and photo opportunities with Santa. SeaLifeParkHawaii.com 

 

Wai Kai 

Celebrate the Season of Legends at Wai Kai's free surf show, happening Thursdays at 7 p.m. during the park's weekly farmers market. Guests can watch professional and local surfers carve the Wai Kai Wave while enjoying live music, local vendors and food trucks. A special holiday-themed show with festive lights and music is scheduled for December 18. WaiKai.com 

 

Wild Side Specialty Tours 

Experience the return of the koholā (humpback whale) to Hawai'i waters this winter with Wild Side Specialty Tours. Guests can join an intimate, marine-biologist-led sunset sail off Oʻahu's coast to witness the gentle giants in their ancestral birthing grounds. Aboard the sail, visitors can observe mother whales guiding their newborn calves and displaying powerful breaches, as well as listen to haunting whale songs. SailHawaii.com 

 

ACCOMMODATIONS 

 

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa 

Following its unveiling of the “In the Southern Sun” interactive art exhibit, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa has expanded its partnership with Hawai'i artist and muralist Kamea Hadar and POW! WOW! Worldwide to launch its new Hale No'eau (Art House) guestroom. Guests reserving the room reside in a vibrant, immersive art installation in an Ocean Front King room featuring colorful life-size murals inspired by Hawaiian life. The room showcases works from several local artists, including Punky Aloha, Jack Soren, Noa Hardisty and Kate Wadsworth. Hyatt.com/Hyatt-Regency  

 

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa 

The hotel known as the “First Lady of Waikīkī” will celebrate the holiday season and a major milestone this December, transforming into a Victorian-inspired wonderland and unveiling its seasonal gingerbread house on December 1. The holiday events will lead up to the hotel's 125th anniversary on March 11, 2026, which will include festivities celebrating the property, which was constructed in 1901. Marriott.com 

 

The Kahala Hotel & Resort 

The Kahala Hotel & Resort recently announced a new chapter in its culinary story, readying to welcome Alan Wong's as its new signature restaurant in early 2026. The new concept restaurant will replace the resort's long-standing fine-dining restaurant, Hoku's, which will conclude service in the first quarter of 2026. Chef Alan Wong, a founding figure of the Hawai'i Regional Cuisine movement, will serve as the restaurant's consultant, developing a menu showcasing signature dishes from his former King Street restaurant spotlighting local-sourced ingredients. KahalaResort.com 

 

CULINARY DISCOVERIES 

 

855-ALOHA 

Romer House Waikīkī hotel recently unveiled a new culinary experience at its signature restaurant, 855-ALOHA. Helmed by newly appointed Chef Brad Dodson, the restaurant's menu aims to celebrate Hawai'i's  tradition of potluck meals, honoring the state's crossroads of cultures and nostalgic tūtū wahine (grandma) recipes. Named after Hawai'i's historic payphones, the restaurant features dishes with Japanese, Chinese and Korean influences, such as Tutu's Smoked Meat Fried Rice and Crab and Macadamia Nut Wontons. 855Aloha.com 

 

916 Grill St. + ShabuZen 

Waipahu's new 916 Grill St. + ShabuZen offers a unique dual dining experience featuring all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu on one side and a la carte yakiniku on the other. Guests can choose from signature hot pot broths or combo yakiniku packages featuring brisket, pork belly and bulgogi. 916Restaurants.com  

 

Brug Bakery 

Brug Bakery, a popular Japanese-style bakery, recently announced its expansion to West Oʻahu with a new location opening at Kapolei Commons this winter. Founded in Hokkaido, Japan, in 1977, the bakery is popular with Hawai'i residents for its more than 100 handmade sweet and savory pastry creations, including its signature Cat Bread. The new Kapolei store will be Brug Bakery's largest yet and feature its full lineup of  treats alongside an expanded array of specialty cakes and beverages. BrugBakery.com 

 

Deck. 

Located on the third floor of the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, Deck. is debuting refreshed brunch and dinner menus this winter, pairing panoramic Lē'ahi (aka Diamond Head State Monument) views with modern American flavors. The open-air restaurant will showcase locally sourced ingredients and handcrafted cocktails, while also expanding its popular DJ and live music lineup for its sunset dining experience. DeckWaikiki.com 

 

Diamond Bakery 

Celebrating 104 years, Diamond Bakery is continuing its anniversary year with limited-edition soda cracker boxes featuring local influencers. Firefighter Joe (@onfirehawaii) shares his Firehouse Chili recipe, while CJ from Hilo offers his festive Aloha Chex Mix recipe — both accessible via QR codes on the packaging. The collaborations aim to honor real local stories and highlight the cracker and snack brand's deep community roots. DiamondBakery.com 

 

Earls Kitchen + Bar 

Earls Kitchen + Bar, a globally inspired restaurant brand, has opened its first Hawai'i location on Kalākaua Avenue in Waikīkī. Spanning nearly 13,000 square feet, the new eatery serves modern American-style cuisine. Its menu features aburi salmon press sushi, local-caught-fish tacos, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and truffle fries. EarlsRestaurants.com 

 

Green Times Matcha 

Green Times Matcha, a new O'ahu mobile matcha cart created by recent high school graduate and owner Jinie Ho, features a menu of lattes matched with homemade syrups, including strawberry matcha, Earl Grey matcha and a “matcha-gato” dessert. @greentimes.matcha 

 

Kaimana Beach Hotel 

Experience “Mu'u and Mimosas, A Kaimana Tea Party,” a new monthly event series at Kaimana Beach Hotel celebrating Waikīkī's golden era. Hosted overlooking Kapua Bay, the tea service encourages guests to wear traditional mu'umu'u or aloha attire. The menu, by Pastry Chef Joli Asano, features Hawaiian-inspired offerings like salmon tartines and guava chiffon cake, paired with Hobbs Tea from Kaua'i or Laurent-Perrier mimosas. Pricing options are $55 for standard service or $78 for premium. Kaimana.com/Kaimana-Tea-Party 

 

Kyoto Katsuda 

Kyoto Katsuda, a Japanese franchise specializing in premium beef katsu, recently opened its first U.S. location within the Stix Asia food hall in Waikīkī. Known for its gyukatsu recipes from Kyoto, the restaurant offers a katsu experience featuring premium wagyu and beef katsu sets served with rice, miso soup, fresh cabbage and a variety of dipping sauces. @kyotokatsudahi 

 

Liliha Food Court 

A new culinary destination, located in the former Foodland Liliha space on School Street, the Liliha Food Court brings together a variety of local vendors in one convenient location. Visitors will find dishes from Mermaid Poke, Jalapeño's 808, Nonnas Italian Bar and Cicchetti, and Tiny Pyramid Express, ranging from poke bowls to quesabirria tacos. @liliha_food_court 

 

Mahina & Sun's 

Experience “Tasting Waikīkī,” a new culinary series at Mahina and Sun's restaurant in The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club. Chef Erik Leong's four-course, $85 per person prix-fixe menu reinterprets local favorites and shares the stories behind them. Available Thursdays through Saturdays, the menu features dishes such as 'ahi poke tostada, char siu-style pork belly and Not Your Aunty's Mochi Cake. MahinaAndSuns.com 

 

Mille Fête 

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of Mille Fête, the Chinatown bakery from James Beard Award-winning chef Robynne Maii, Chuck Bussler and pastry chef Katherine Yang. On February 14, the bakery will spotlight its popular assortment of sweet and savory bites, including Fête restaurant's sourdough loaves, Okinawan sweet potato rolls and snacking cakes such as its calamansi coffee cake. MilleFete.com 

 

Ochos Latin Vibes 

Ochos Latin Vibes  is bringing a fusion of Mexican and Peruvian cuisine to Kapahulu Avenue, highlighting vibrant Latin flavors. Dishes on the eatery's menu include Peruvian classics such as ceviche and flaming Parmesan scallops, alongside Mexican favorites. @ochos888honolulu  

 

Okdongsik 

Okdongsik, a well-known Seoul restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand, has opened its first Hawai'i location on Kapi'olani Boulevard. The eatery specializes in a single Korean comfort food: dweji gomtang (pork gomtang). Guests can experience the clear, Pyeongyang-style pork broth served in a traditional yutang-banggak (rice-in-soup) method, which earned the restaurant's New York predecessor a spot in The New York Times' “8 Best Dishes of 2023” list. Okdongsik.net  

 

Paris Baguette 

Bakery-café Paris Baguette recently opened its second Honolulu location at the new Renaissance Honolulu Hotel and Spa. The ground floor eatery offers an array of fresh pastries, desserts and cakes. As with Paris Baguette's other locations, the new café also serves signature sandwiches and has a full coffee bar. ParisBaguette.com 

 

Seki Slush 

Oʻahu's North Shore has a new spot to cool down with the recent opening of Seki Slush at the Hukilau Marketplace in Lāʻie. The new shop, operated by a husband-and-wife team, features refreshing mango and guava slushies. The menu highlight, the “Supa Seki Supreme,” is a slushy with every topping, including ice cream and mochi. SekiSlush.com  

 

Sunset Noodle House 

Recently opened Sunset Noodle House in Kailua offers a menu of Japanese-fusion comfort food. Led by co-owner Jason Chang, the eatery specializes in ramen with house-made broths prepared over 48 hours. The menu also features the eatery's signature short rib ramen, tan tan ramen, chicken katsu and pan-fried gyoza. @sunsetnoodle808 

 

The Dotted Line 

The Dotted Line at AC Hotel Honolulu has appointed Executive Chef Chris Murakami to lead its new culinary vision. Designed for appeal to downtown professionals, the restaurant's new menu blends global cuisine with Hawai'i regional influences, serving everything from executive breakfast to pau hana (after work) fare and dinner. Menu highlights include Kona kampachi crudo, hulihuli filet tips and miso yuzu salmon. DottedLineHawaii.com 

 

The Pig and The Lady 

Chinatown Historic District restaurant The Pig and The Lady recently relocated to a brand-new location in Honolulu's Kaimukī neighborhood. The move marks a homecoming for owner-chef Andrew Le and features an interior design brought to life by local artists. Guests can still enjoy Pig and the Lady favorites alongside reimagined dishes. Reservations are now available for lunch, brunch and dinner. ThePigAndTheLady.com 

 

Tiki's Grill & Bar 

Located on the third floor of the Twin Fin Hotel, Tiki's Grill & Bar has been named a 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards Winner by Tripadvisor. This recognition honors the restaurant for its fresh, island-inspired cuisine, ocean views, and nightly live music, ranking it among the top 10% of businesses worldwide based on consistent, positive guest reviews. Tikis.com 

 

Tūtū's Place by Highway Inn 

Bishop Museum's new café, Tūtū's Place by Highway Inn, is now serving local comfort food to museum-goers. Operated by third-generation Highway Inn owner, Monica Toguchi Ryan, the eatery offers café exclusives and grab-and-go items. The Tūtū's Place menu includes Highway Inn's popular Hawaiian plate with kālua pig, lomi salmon and haupia, as well as poke bowls and flatbreads. MyHighwayInn.com 

 

Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice 

A longtime Maui favorite, Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice has brought its famous shave ice treats to Waikīkī with a new store on Seaside Avenue. Known for its ice made ultra-purified water and syrups made with pure cane sugar, Ululani's now offers its signature treats at its fourth Oʻahu location. The menu features classics like the Hawaiian Rainbow and special combos like the Strawberry Shortcake. UlulanisHawaiianShaveIce.com  

 

MEETINGS, CONVENTIONS AND INCENTIVE (GROUP) TRAVEL 

 

Appetito Craft Pizza and Wine Bar 

Blending rustic Italian flavors with a modern island touch, this Waikīkī restaurant accommodates private events, group dining, and catering. Planners can utilize the private event space for functions featuring artisanal Neapolitan-style kiawe-wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and a curated wine list. Appetito offers flexible menus and customizable catering solutions. AppetitoWaikiki.com 

 

Haleiwa Distilling Company 

Located in Waialua at the town's historic Sugar Mill, Haleiwa Distilling Company offers a venue for gatherings of all kinds, from corporate retreats and team-building events to weddings and milestone celebrations. Its versatile indoor and outdoor spaces aim for a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy tastings of the distillery's spirits. Haleiwa Distilling Company offers full event planning support, customizable décor and catering coordination. HaleiwaDistillingCo.com 

 

Kō Hana Distillers 

Kō Hana Distillers offers groups a "farm-to-bottle" rum experience on O'ahu. Committed to a 100% Hawai'i-made product, Kō Hana grows and cultivates its own heirloom sugar cane. Visitors can tour the distillery to learn firsthand how the cane is transformed into signature agricole rums. KohanaRum.com 

 

Limelight Hawaii 

Opening at the Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra in late 2025, Limelight Hawaii is a new dinner entertainment venue and showroom. The flexible space is designed to host meetings, concerts, and special events, offering a variety of banquet options for corporate gatherings and celebrations. LimelightHawaii.com 

 

Maui Brewing Company Waikīkī 

The brewpub is elevating meetings with its new Come Together Package, offering flexible spaces for up to 550 guests, alongside its popular Ho'olaule'a Package. Both options feature buffet-style, craft-driven menus paired with Hawai'i's largest selection of local beer on tap. MBCRestaurants.com 

 

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort 

Offering over 5,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, planners can enhance events with live performances at Kani Ka Pila Grille or customized cultural experiences, from storytelling to lei-making, at the A'o Cultural Center. The premium, ocean-view Voyager 47 Club Lounge is also available for receptions. Outrigger.com 

 

Romer House Waikīkī 

With 179 mid-century modern–inspired rooms and an array of distinct venues, including 855-ALOHA (up to 150 guests), The Lei Stand cocktail lounge (up to 45 guests), and The Backyard, an outdoor lounge with cabanas and a wading pool (up to 125 guests), Romer House Waikīkī and is ready to host events from intimate celebrations to full buyouts. RomerHotels.com 

 

OTHER FESTIVALS & EVENTS 
For a full list to help plan your travels around O'ahu's world-class events, visit here. 

 

November 21, 2025 

Amy Hānaiali'i's Kinohi Concert — Celebrated Hawai'i vocalist Amy Hānaiali'i will present a special concert at the Hawai'i Theatre, delving into her ancestral roots in Hawaiʻi, England and Norway, and her Ojibwe heritage. Joined by Kumu Micah Kamohoali'i and Hālau Nā Kīpu'upu'u, the performance will weave together new mele (songs), imagery and storytelling. HawaiiTheatre.com 

 

November 23, 2025 

Wiki Wiki One-Day Vintage Collectibles & Hawaiiana Show — Shop for antiques and retro collectibles at this all-vintage show at the Blaisdell Center. Featuring over 100 vendors from Hawaiʻi, Japan and the continental U.S., the event will offer a large selection of aloha shirts, Hawaiian jewelry, art, furniture, toys and other unique finds. Ukulele.com/WikiWiki 

 

November 27, 2025 

Thanksgiving — Hotels and restaurants around the island are celebrating Thanksgiving with various events, menus, brunches and dinners. Here is a quick round up of a few of them: 

• 100 Sails (Prince Waikiki): Thanksgiving brunch and dinner buffets alongside harbor views. 

• Azure (The Royal Hawaiian): Featuring a Thanksgiving tasting menu with a beachside setting. 

• Chart House Waikiki: A holiday buffet with harbor views, featuring roasted turkey, honey-roasted ham and classic sides. 

• Duke's Waikiki: A holiday buffet with traditional Thanksgiving items alongside the restaurant's island-style dishes. 

• Edge of Waikiki (Sheraton Waikiki): Serving a Thanksgiving buffet with oceanfront and Lē'ahi (aka Diamond Head State Monument) views. 

• Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu (Ko Olina): The resort's restaurants, including La Hiki Kitchen and Noe, will feature special Thanksgiving brunch and dinner events. 

• Hoku's (The Kahala Hotel and Resort): Serving a multicourse Thanksgiving prix-fixe dinner. 

• Leahi Lounge (Sheraton Waikiki): A Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner perched atop Sheraton Waikiki with sweeping ocean views. 

• Plumeria Beach House (The Kahala Hotel and Resort): Serving a buffet for Thanksgiving brunch and dinner. 

• Quiora (The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach): Serving a family-style Thanksgiving feast for sharing. 

• Tiki's Grill and Bar: Serving a three-course Thanksgiving menu. 

 

November 28, 2025 

Waikiki Holiday Parade — This beloved island tradition kicks off the holiday season and commemorates the anniversary of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. The parade proceeds down a torch-lit Kalākaua Avenue, honoring veterans, survivors and active-duty military with spirited marching bands from across the U.S., hula dancers and festive floats. WaikikiHolidayParade.com 

 

December 5, 2025 

The Stars Tonight: Trivia Dome — Challenge your knowledge of the stars under the stars at the Bishop Museum's J. Watumull Planetarium at this quiz-style event, offering two show at 6 and 7:30 p.m. The evening also includes stargazing on the museum's Great Lawn with the Hawaiian Astronomical Society, weather permitting. BishopMuseum.org 

 

December 6, 2025 

Kapolei City Lights — Celebrate the season in Leeward O'ahu at this free, family-friendly holiday tradition. The opening night festivities begin with a block party at 5 p.m., featuring over 70 local vendors, food, and live music. The Holiday Parade begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Mayor's Tree Lighting at 6:45 p.m. at Kapolei Hale, where guests can also enjoy photos with Santa. Honolulu.gov 

 

December 7, 2025 

Pearl Harbor Remembrance — All are invited to honor the more than 2,400 lives lost in the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack at this morning national remembrance ceremony held at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. The spirit of remembrance continues in the evening with the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade, which proceeds down Kalākaua Avenue in Waikīkī, honoring veterans, survivors and active-duty military. PearlHarborEvents.com 

 

December 14, 2025 

Honolulu Marathon — Thousands of runners from around the world will take to the streets of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods for this 26.2-mile race, which begins with pre-dawn fireworks at Ala Moana Beach Park and finishes in Kapiʻolani Park in Waikīkī . Honolulu Marathon weekend will also feature the Kalākaua Merrie Mile on December 13. Some road closures will be in effect for the marathon. Residents and visitors are advised to plan accordingly. HonoluluMarathon.org 

 

December 18, 2025 

Hapa Holiday Extravaganza — The Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra returns with its HapaSymphony tradition to celebrate the holidays in true island style. Held at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, the concert features performances by celebrated vocalist Natalie Ai Kamauʻu, sing-alongs, and seasonal favorites. Conductor Dane Lam will lead the orchestra for this memorable symphonic holiday night. MyHSO.org 

 

December 18-22, 2025 

Hoops in Hawai'i Classic — College basketball returns to O'ahu with this multi-day tournament at Hawaii Pacific University's Shark Tank. The classic features men's and women's teams from NCAA DII, DIII, and NAIA divisions competing in a premier island showcase. ScoringLive.com/HoopsInHawaii 

 

December 19-20, 2025 

Live at Lewers Concert Series — Halekulani's signature concert series returns to Lewers Lounge, featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Antonia Bennett and celebrated pianist Todd Hunter. Bennett, daughter of legendary singer Tony Bennett, will bring her blend of classic and contemporary jazz for two performances each night. Tickets are $125 per person and reservations are required by December 16. Halekulani.com 

 

December 20, 2025 

Kalani Peʻa's Hawaiian Christmas Show — Four-time GRAMMY® winner Kalani Peʻa returns to the Hawaii Theatre for his 4th annual holiday celebration. The show will feature special guests, including Kumu Hula Shelsea Ai & Hālau Lilia Makanoe, and the Sounds of Aloha Chorus, for a festive evening. HawaiiTheatre.com 

 

December 24, 2025 

The Hawai'i Bowl — Spend Christmas Eve watching the 22nd annual Hawai'i Bowl. Held at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, the game will be broadcast on ESPN and features teams from the Mountain West, American Athletic, or Conference USA. TheHawaiiBowl.com 

 

December 31, 2025 

New Year's Eve — Hotels, resorts, and venues across O'ahu are ringing in 2026 with special events, parties, dinners, and spectacular fireworks displays. Here is a quick roundup of a few of them: 

• Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu (Ko Olina): The resort will host a New Year's Eve countdown celebration with live musical entertainment at the Ohana Pool. Its restaurants, Mina's Fish House and Noe, will also feature special dinners for the occasion. 

• Halekulani (Waikīkī): Welcoming 2026 with a luxury New Year's Eve party, the event features a gourmet buffet, live entertainment, and complimentary beverages in the grand ballroom, followed by exclusive access to the Pool Deck for views of the Waikīkī fireworks. 

• Hideout at The Laylow (Waikīkī): Presents DRIP, A New Year's Eve Celebration. The party features DJ J.Esco and a midnight celebration from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 

• Ko Olina Resort: Celebrating with a countdown to 2026 featuring musical entertainment at the Ohana Pool and Manalo Lounge. 

• Sheraton Waikiki (Waikīkī): Presents its "Black & White New Year's Eve Party" at the oceanfront Edge of Waikiki and the Infinity Pool from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. The hotel also offers a New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner at the Leahi Lounge, which includes access to The Royal Hawaiian's "Dreaming in Pink" party. 

• The Royal Hawaiian (Waikīkī): The hotel will host its "Dreaming in Pink" party,  New Year's Eve Dinner at Azure and New Year's Eve Luau. 

• Wai Kai (Ewa Beach): Hosting a large, all-ages New Year's Eve celebration with live entertainment, a midnight fireworks spectacular over the Wai Kai Lagoon, and a 21+ VIP experience at The LookOut. 

• Waikīkī Beach: A dazzling fireworks display will be launched from a barge off the coast at the stroke of midnight, visible throughout the Waikiki shoreline. 

 

January - March 2026 

Surf Events — The North Shore of O'ahu annually welcomes Hawai'i's winter wave season with a thrilling lineup of elite surfing competitions, attracting top surfers from Hawai'i and around the world to take on the area's legendary waves. The competitions showcase amazing wave cutting skills, celebrate Hawai'i's vibrant surf culture and offer spectators a front-row seat to all the action. Holding periods for events include: 

• December 7, 2025 - March 6, 2026, for the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational  

• January 4-16, 2026, for the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout  

• January 29 - February 2, 2026, for WSL Pipe Championship Tour 

• February 10-19, 2026, for the WSL Sunset Championship Tour 

 

January 1, 2026 

Fukubukuro (Lucky Bag) Event — Kick off the new year at Royal Hawaiian Center's annual Fukubukuro event. The celebration begins at 9 a.m. with a traditional Taiko Drum Performance in The Royal Grove. Guests can then shop for exclusive “Lucky Bags” — offered at up to half the retail value of their contents — at participating stores like Island Slipper and Kate Spade, while supplies last. RoyalHawaiianCenter.com 

 

January 11, 2026 

New Year's 'Ohana Festival — The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i's New Year's 'Ohana Festival is one of the state's largest annual festivals celebrating Japanese New Year's traditions. The festival welcomes residents and visitors to celebrate the upcoming year with Shinto New Year blessings, food, crafts, cultural entertainment and more. In addition, the 74th Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony will be held in the center's Generations Ballroom. JCCH.com 

 

January 12-18, 2026 

Sony Open in Hawai'i — The Sony Open in Hawaiʻi brings together 144 pro golfers at Oʻahu's Waialae Country Club. One of Hawai'i's largest charity golf events, the PGA Tour contest debuted in 1999 and now raises more than $1.2 million annually for local nonprofits. In total, the tournament has raised $25 million for 350-plus local nonprofit organizations over the years. Honored by the State of Hawaiʻi as a Green Business award winner, the Sony Open is committed to energy efficiency and sustainable practices.  SonyOpenInHawaii.com 

 

January 16, 2026 

Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Polynesian Bowl — The Polynesian Bowl is held annually during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame's Enshrinement Week, regularly gathering some of the world's top high school football players to celebrate culture and play the game they love.  PolynesianBowl.com 

 

January 17-19, 2026 

TransPacific Volleyball Championships — Experience the excitement of this seventh annual edition of one of Hawaiʻi's premier indoor volleyball tournaments. Held at the Hawai'i Convention Center, it welcomes more than 380 teams from across the globe, highlights top-tier volleyball action and celebrates Hawaiian culture through opening ceremonies, music and cultural exhibitions. TransPacificVolleyball.com 

 

February 13-14, 2026 

Chinese New Year Celebration — The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii will again present its annual Chinese New Year Celebration at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza in Downtown Honolulu's Historic Chinatown District. The two-day, family-friendly event celebrates the start of the Year of the Horse and will include food and craft booths, live entertainment, special cultural performances, lion and dragon dances, and more. ChineseChamber.com 

 

February 16-28, 2026 

Lunar New Year Celebration — Royal Hawaiian Center will celebrate the Lunar New Year with festive lion dances and traditional celebrations in Waikīkī. The event will also feature a special lucky Lai See Gift with Purchase promotion for shoppers. RoyalHawaiianCenter.com 

 

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