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Hawaii is a fantastic place to enjoy the holiday season, offering a unique blend of those one-of-a-kind tropical vibes and festive events fit for the whole family. Explore the holiday highlights of each island, from parades to beachside Santa sightings! Or book a tour with IMI and let us handle planning your holiday fun.

Here’s a look at just some of the best things to do during the holidays in Hawaii by island.

Christmas on Oahu

Oahu has a festive holiday spirit that combines beach vibes with traditional celebrations, making it a popular destination for the season.

  • Santa Arrives by Canoe at Waikiki Beach: Watch Santa as he makes his grand entrance Hawaiian-style by canoe on Waikiki Beach! This event is a fun way to start the holiday season with a tropical twist.
  • Ala Moana Center’s Photos with Santa: At the Ala Moana Center, you can take photos with Santa, making it a favorite holiday stop for families. The center also has extended shopping hours and seasonal decorations to get everyone in the spirit.
  • Honolulu Hale City Lights: Running from early December through the beginning of January, Honolulu Hale hosts holiday light displays, tree decorations, and family-friendly activities.
  • Aloha Land’s Winter Wonderland: Head to Aloha Land for its Winter Wonderland display, which includes light shows, holiday-themed photo spots, and seasonal treats.
  • Chinatown Winter Walk: Take a stroll through Honolulu’s Chinatown for festive lights, holiday décor, and unique holiday shopping.
  • Pearl Harbor Memorial Anniversary Parade (December 7): Honoring the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, this parade includes local performances and military tributes. In addition, you can take a Pearl Harbor tour with IMI to immerse yourself in the history.

Book an Oahu Circle Island Tour with IMI Tours to explore more of the island before catching a parade.

Christmas on Maui

Maui celebrates the holidays with a mix of traditional events and beachside festivities.

  • Santa Arrives by Canoe at Wailea Beach: Maui’s Wailea Beach welcomes Santa’s arrival by canoe, a tropical spin on the holiday tradition.
  • ‘Tis the Season of Aloha at the Grand Wailea Resort: This holiday celebration at the Grand Wailea Resort features festive events, performances, and delicious treats throughout December.
  • Lahaina Banyan Tree Lighting: The famous Banyan Tree in Lahaina is illuminated with holiday lights, creating a beautiful scene for an evening stroll.
  • Kula Botanical Gardens: Known for its unique flora, the Kula Botanical Gardens add holiday decorations to their already stunning displays, making it a perfect daytime outing.
  • New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Maui lights up the sky with two major fireworks displays, one at the Grand Wailea Resort and the other offshore at the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi at Mānele Bay.

Christmas on Kauai

Kauai’s small-town charm is especially inviting during the holidays, with lights and parades that bring the community together.

  • Kauai’s Festival of Lights: Held at the Historic County Building in Lihue, this annual light festival showcases vibrant holiday decorations and handcrafted ornaments, making it a family-friendly event.
  • Waimea Light Parade: The Waimea Light Parade lights up the town with brightly decorated floats, local music, and a festive holiday vibe.
  • The Grand Christmas Tree: The tallest Christmas tree on the island stands tall in Princeville, adorned with holiday lights and ornaments, making it a memorable holiday sight.

Christmas on the Big Island

Big Island offers a variety of holiday events and parades that create a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade: This annual parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of holiday cheer.
  • Hilo Christmas Light Parade: Hilo celebrates with a Christmas Light Parade that brings together the community for an evening of music, lights, and holiday fun.
  • Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade: This unique twilight parade in Waimea is known for its festive floats, holiday lights, and cheerful crowds.
  • Kona Christmas House: The Kona Christmas House lights up each year with an impressive array of holiday decorations and lights, a must-see stop for anyone on vacation during the holiday season.
  • Kailua Kalikimaka Lighted Boat Parade: On Christmas Eve, the boats at Kailua Bay light up in a dazzling display, making for a memorable night on the water.

With IMI Tours, you can experience Hawaii’s unique holiday traditions across the islands with ease. From parades to lights, let us help you explore the best of Hawaii this holiday season.