Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement! There’s a vibrant buzz in the air as Waikiki gears up for a series of incredible events that will leave you with unforgettable memories. From cultural festivals to stunning fireworks displays, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise. So grab your calendar and prepare to be amazed by the diverse range of upcoming happenings in Waikiki. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events are sure to add a touch of magic to your time spent in this stunning destination. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore and immerse yourself in the thrilling energy of Waikiki’s upcoming events.
Annual Festivals and Events
Waikiki Holiday Parade
The Waikiki Holiday Parade is a beloved annual event that takes place during the holiday season in Waikiki. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and performances from various cultural groups. It is a festive celebration that brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the spirit of the holiday season.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival
The Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival showcases the unique music style of slack key guitar, a traditional Hawaiian guitar playing technique. The festival features performances by local and international slack key guitar artists, as well as workshops and exhibitions. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of Hawaii.
Honolulu Festival
The Honolulu Festival is a vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region. The festival features colorful parades, traditional dance performances, live music, arts and crafts exhibits, and delicious food. It is a great event for the whole family to enjoy and experience the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii.
Waikiki Spam Jam
If you’re a fan of delicious food and a unique culinary experience, then the Waikiki Spam Jam is the perfect event for you. This festival celebrates the Hawaiian love for SPAM, with various food vendors offering creative and delicious SPAM-inspired dishes. There are also live music performances and entertainment throughout the festival, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Duke’s OceanFest
Duke’s OceanFest is an annual celebration of the legendary Hawaiian waterman, Duke Kahanamoku. The festival features various water sports competitions, such as surfing, paddleboarding, swimming, and canoe racing. There are also beachside concerts, hula demonstrations, and a luau. It is a fantastic event for sports enthusiasts and those who want to experience the spirit of aloha.
Concerts and Performances
Hawaii Symphony Orchestra
The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra is a world-class symphony orchestra that performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music. They showcase the talent of local and international musicians and offer a diverse repertoire of concerts throughout the year. Attending a performance by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra is a memorable experience for any music lover.
Blue Note Hawaii
Located in the heart of Waikiki, Blue Note Hawaii is a premier jazz club and music venue. It hosts performances by renowned jazz artists as well as other genres of music, including R&B, pop, and rock. The intimate setting and world-class sound system make Blue Note Hawaii a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Hawaii Theatre Center
The historic Hawaii Theatre Center is a landmark venue that hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, musicals, and dance shows. The beautifully restored theater offers an elegant and atmospheric setting for experiencing the arts. From classical music to Broadway productions, the Hawaii Theatre Center offers something for everyone.
Diamond Head Theatre
Diamond Head Theatre is Hawaii’s oldest performing arts center and offers a wide range of theatrical performances throughout the year. From Broadway musicals to local productions, the theater showcases the talents of local performers and provides a unique and entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.
Mai Tai Bar
Located within the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, the Mai Tai Bar is not just a place to enjoy a refreshing drink; it is also a venue for live music performances. With its stunning beachfront location, the bar provides a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere to unwind and listen to talented local musicians while sipping on a tropical cocktail.
Sports Events
Honolulu Marathon
The Honolulu Marathon is one of the most popular and prestigious marathons in the world. Runners from around the globe flock to Waikiki to participate in this annual event, which takes them on a scenic route through the city and along the beautiful coastline. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a spectator cheering on the participants, the Honolulu Marathon is an exciting event that showcases the spirit of endurance and the beauty of Hawaii.
Waikiki Roughwater Swim
For those who love swimming, the Waikiki Roughwater Swim is a challenging and thrilling event. This annual race takes participants on a 2.4-mile swim from Waikiki Beach to Diamond Head, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the island. Joining the race or observing from the shore, the Waikiki Roughwater Swim is an exciting event for water sports enthusiasts.
Hawaii Tourism Authority Pro Waterman Championships
The Hawaii Tourism Authority Pro Waterman Championships bring together top athletes from various water sports disciplines, including paddleboarding, surfing, and outrigger canoe racing. The competition takes place in Waikiki and showcases the skill, strength, and endurance of these water sports professionals. It is a thrilling event to watch and feel the exhilaration of these athletes in action.
Hula Bowl
The Hula Bowl is a college football all-star game that attracts top players from universities across the country. The game takes place in Waikiki, offering fans the opportunity to watch future NFL stars in action against the backdrop of the beautiful Hawaiian scenery. The Hula Bowl is a highly anticipated event for football enthusiasts and a chance to see the next generation of talent.
Billabong Pipe Masters
For surf enthusiasts, the Billabong Pipe Masters is an iconic event held on the North Shore of Oahu. It is one of the most prestigious contests in professional surfing and attracts some of the best surfers from around the world. Watching the fearless athletes take on the powerful waves of the Banzai Pipeline is a thrilling experience and a testament to the world-class surfing culture of Hawaii.