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Honolulu isn’t just a paradise for beach bums and surfers but a year-round destination for foodies, music lovers, and culture enthusiasts. With an array of festivals in Honolulu celebrating everything from hula to sake, there’s always a reason to celebrate in the heart of Hawaii!
With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, Hawaii is a destination that’s part of almost everyone’s travel bucket list. In fact, the dreamy and sunny islands of Oahu and Maui are consistently among the top five most popular destinations in the United States.
And while these islands offer plenty of things to see and do, one thing you should consider is the numerous festivals in Honolulu that take place throughout the year. These celebrations showcase Aloha State’s rich cultural heritage and diversity and emphasize the importance of cultural immersion in travel.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, why not time your visit to coincide with one of these exciting annual festivals in Honolulu? From delicious food and captivating music to colorful parades and ancient traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Take a look at the list below to see which celebrations catch your eye and plan your trip accordingly:
First Day Hike (January)
Kick off the New Year with the invigorating First Day Hike in Honolulu. This event is the first among many annual festivals in the city. It promotes healthy living and outdoor fun in Hawaii’s state parks. Enjoy guided hikes with stunning views and learn about the islands’ unique flora and fauna. First Day Hike welcomes all levels, offering a fun start to the year.
Chinese New Year (February)
Experience the joyful Chinese New Year celebration in Honolulu’s Chinatown, where streets burst with vivid colors, mesmerizing lion dances, and delectable food. This festival in Honolulu is a cultural spectacle that showcases the finest Chinese art, music, and cuisine. With captivating dragon dances and lively firecrackers, the celebration of the Lunar New Year in Honolulu offers an unparalleled experience. After immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere, find a cozy place to stay in the heart of Chinatown and make the most of this incredible cultural experience.
Honolulu Festival & Prince Kuhio Day (March)
The Honolulu Festival is a celebration of music, dance, and arts from around the world, reflecting the diverse cultures of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region. Highlights include the Waikiki Grand Parade, a spectacular fireworks display, and performances by local and international artists. The festival presents the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and its neighboring countries.
Another notable event taking place every March is Prince Kuhio Day Celebration. This event commemorates the birthday of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole, a revered figure in Hawaiian history who fought to preserve the islands’ culture and traditions. Held every March 26, events include hula performances, live music, and traditional Hawaiian games, providing an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into Hawaii’s history and culture.
Of course, no visit to Honolulu would be complete without exploring the iconic Waikiki. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class shopping and dining, Waikiki offers a true Hawaiian experience. From luxury resorts to cozy beachfront rentals, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preference.
Check out the diverse range of places to stay in Waikiki and make the most of your unforgettable journey in this tropical paradise.
Merrie Monarch Festival (April)
Experience the captivating Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, just a short flight from Honolulu. This week-long event celebrates hula and Hawaiian arts, honoring King David Kalākaua. Witness hula dancers’ grace and skill in traditional and modern performances. The festival also features live music, crafts, and cultural demonstrations. It’s a must-see for those seeking to understand Hawaiian heritage. Be sure to book accommodations and tickets early, as this world-renowned festival attracts visitors from around the globe. As you plan your trip, make sure to check out these hot deals in hotels and resorts in Hilo.
Lei Day (May)
Lei Day is an exhilarating event that honors the Hawaiian tradition of giving and receiving leis, symbols of aloha and affection. The festival includes lei-making competitions, hula performances, and live music, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and significance of this cherished Hawaiian custom.
You may want to bring the kids and have them experience this colorful cultural extravaganza, where they can join in lei-making workshops and immerse themselves in the rich traditions and customs of the islands, creating treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
With Hawaii’s deep appreciation for family values, you’ll find a wide selection of family vacation rentals in Honolulu, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the warmth and beauty of Hawaii while creating lifelong memories together.
King Kamehameha Floral Parade (June)
This annual event honors and celebrates the life of King Kamehameha I, the legendary Hawaiian leader who united the islands. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and various styles of Hawaiian dress or muumuu, followed by a festival with food, music, and arts and crafts. It’s a must-see event to learn more about Hawaii’s rich history and culture.
Prince Lot Hula Festival (July)
The Prince Lot Hula Festival is a cultural celebration of hula, Hawaii’s iconic dance form. Named after Prince Lot Kapuaiwa, an arts patron who helped revive the hula tradition in the 19th century, the festival features performances by hula halau (troupes) from around Hawaii and beyond. The Prince Lot Hula Festival is a magical event that highlights the beauty and grace of this beloved Hawaiian art form.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival (August)
The Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival celebrates the unique Hawaiian style of slack key guitar. This finger-picking technique produces a sweet and mellow sound. The festival features performances by some of the best slack key guitarists in Hawaii and workshops and jam sessions. This festival in Honolulu is a must-see event for music enthusiasts.
Waikiki Hoolaulea (September)
The annual Waikiki Hoolaulea is one of the largest block parties in Hawaii, taking place every September in the heart of Waikiki. This event celebrates Hawaiian music, dance, and culture, featuring live performances from local musicians, hula groups, and food and craft vendors. Visitors can savor traditional Hawaiian dishes like lau lau and kalua pork while enjoying the jubilant atmosphere of this annual festival in Honolulu.
Hawaii International Film Festival (October-November)
Immerse yourself in cinematic magic at the Hawaii International Film Festival, a premier showcase of the latest and greatest films worldwide. This annual event in Honolulu celebrates the power of storytelling by highlighting diverse and thought-provoking narratives from the Pacific Rim and beyond. With a focus on emerging talent and independent voices, the festival offers a unique opportunity to discover groundbreaking works and engage in thought-provoking discussions with filmmakers and industry professionals. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of film and culture, which unites audiences and creators in a shared love of cinema.
If you plan to attend HIFF 2023, note that it will be a hybrid event from October 12 – 29, 2023. There will be in-person screenings and events on the islands of O’ahu, Kaua’i, Maui, and Hawai’i Island. Consider booking your stay early to take advantage of hot hotel deals in Hawaii and secure the best accommodations for your visit.
Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (November-December)
For two months every winter, Oahu’s North Shore becomes a mecca for surfers from all over the world. The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is one of the most prestigious surfing competitions in the world. It features three events taking place at different locations along the North Shore. With waves reaching up to 50 feet tall, the competition is an adrenaline-filled experience that attracts surfers and spectators alike. Be sure to attend this thrilling event, as it brings together the world’s top surfers in a breathtaking display of skill and athleticism. Check out these vacation rentals in Oahu to make the most of your stay.
Essential Tips For Experiencing The Best of Festivals in Honolulu
As you plan your visit to experience the vibrant cultural events and festivals in Honolulu, it’s essential to take note of some tips to make the most of your trip. These tips will help you immerse yourself in the local culture and make your trip an unforgettable experience.
Expect traffic in Honolulu. Be prepared to spend some time in your car if you plan to drive around the city.
Not everyone is Hawaiian. Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, so don’t assume everyone you meet is Hawaiian.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and stay hydrated. The Hawaiian sun is intense. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays and stay hydrated in the tropical heat.
Try the amazing donuts or malasadas. Honolulu is known for its delicious donuts and malasadas, so be sure to try them out.
A Hawaiian plate lunch is another must-try. Plate lunches are a popular Hawaiian dish consisting of rice, macaroni salad, and a protein like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken.
Respect the culture. Learn about and respect. Hawaiian traditions and customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.
Bring cash. Some food trucks, markets, and small shops may only accept cash, so make sure you have some on hand.
Take advantage of the beaches. Honolulu has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so don’t miss out on the chance to soak up the sun and relax by the water.
Plan for hiking and outdoor activities. Honolulu has plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures, so plan accordingly and bring proper footwear and clothing.
Take a day trip to nearby islands. Oahu is just one of the many islands in Hawaii, so consider taking a day trip to explore some other beautiful islands.
Celebrate The Vibrant Festivals in Honolulu with Rent By Owner
Indeed, these exciting annual festivals and events happening throughout the year make Honolulu one of the best destinations to add to your bucket list. Truly, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city., whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or even a cultural enthusiast.
And the best way to experience it all? By staying in a vacation rental conveniently located near all the action, of course!
At RentByOwner, we offer a wide selection of properties in Honolulu that cater to all types of travelers and budgets. From oceanfront villas to cozy apartments in the heart of the city, we have something for every traveler. So, what are you waiting for?
Start planning your trip to Honolulu today and experience the magic of these fantastic festivals and events for yourself!
TLDR
Immerse in Honolulu’s diverse culture through year-round food, music, and art festivals. From the renowned Merrie Monarch Festival to the fragrant Lei Day celebration, there are plenty of events to explore. Witness the King Kamehameha Floral Parade or attend the Hawaii International Film Festival for a global film experience.
Make sure to check out these unforgettable events and follow our tips for getting the most out of your trip. And best of all, RentByOwner is here to help you find the perfect place to stay when you visit Honolulu.
We offer a wide range of vacation rentals in Honolulu to suit any budget or preference. Be it a luxurious beachfront condo or a cozy apartment in the heart of the city. Plan your trip with us and get ready for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure!
