Are you ready to say Aloha(welcome) to Mele Kalikimaka (Christmas) in Hawaiian style? Christmas in Hawaii is a festive blend of tropical vibes and holiday traditions!
Imagine decking your tree with colorful leis instead of snowflakes and lighting up palm trees for that island glow. Inspired? You should be!
Trust me, Hawaii’s exciting things will leave you in awe this Christmas!
Church services here often feature carols in Hawaiian and English, complete with joyful hula performances that give the celebration a unique flair
Moreover, decorating Christmas trees is still a thing, but with a splash of island flavor—think ornaments shaped like ukuleles and pineapples!
Gift-giving is done with plenty of aloha spirit, as friends and family exchange gifts wrapped in tropical-themed paper.
Holiday meals? You’ll find kalua pork and fresh seafood beside ham or turkey. And don’t forget the sweet treats—baking Christmas cookies in Hawaii means using coconut and macadamia nuts for that signature twist.
Santa Claus makes his Hawaiian debut by paddling in on a surfboard or outrigger canoe while kids line up for their beachside photo-op. Caroling takes on a warm-weather twist, with groups singing classics like Mele Kalikimaka.
Nativity scenes and holiday parades are beloved, with vibrant processions lighting up the streets.
Christmas markets are sprinkled with island crafts, which make it easy to find that perfect handmade gift! Hawaii’s laid-back yet festive energy makes the holidays here unforgettable.
Ready to explore? Come on! But make sure you carry some warm clothes with you because, during Christmas, it might snow in Hawaii at some point.
1) Spread Christmas love with Honolulu
Christmas 2024 in Honolulu is packed with festive fun, tropical cheer, and unique holiday experiences!
A hotspot in Hawaii during Christmas is Honolulu City Lights, a month-long celebration on December 7 with the Electric Light Parade and the lighting of the 50-foot Christmas tree at Honolulu Hale.
You’ll see towering Shaka Santa and Mele Tutu statues alongside dazzling decorations. The event is free to explore, which makes it a budget-friendly option for families.
If you’re into sports, the Diamond Head Classic basketball tournament takes place from December 21-24, and it will provide exciting action for college basketball fans.
For dining, many restaurants have special holiday menus blending traditional Christmas fare with local Hawaiian flavors, but you’ll want to book ahead as they fill up fast.
Waikiki’s Christmas bars, such as The Christmas Bar at Tiki’s Grill & Bar, also have many festive cocktails in a lively atmosphere, perfect for kicking off your night.
Are you looking for Hawaii’s must-visit spot on Christmas? Then go for Christmas Eve or Day luaus, which are unforgettable.
You can enjoy cultural performances and delicious Hawaiian cuisine at places like the Queens Waikiki Luau or the Waikiki Starlight Luau. Their Prices range from $109 to $235 for adults, depending on the seating and experience.
However, most outdoor events, including the City Lights, are free, but for dining, luaus, and sporting events, you’ll need to budget between $100 to $250 depending on your plans.
2) Enjoy holidays in Hilo
Hilo is the second top place to visit in Hawaii on Christmas this year! Christmas in Hilo is a magical time filled with festive events perfect for holiday celebrations.
One of its highlights in 2024 is the Downtown Hilo Christmas Lights Parade. This lively event, which is happening on December 6th, will light up the streets with vibrant floats, marching bands, and community performances.
It’s a family-friendly event, and what’s the best of all you ask me? It’s free! Grab a good spot along the parade route, and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere as Hilo comes alive with holiday spirit.
If you’re looking for unique Christmas gifts, the Hilo Christmas Craft Fair at the Edith Kanaka’ole Tennis Stadium on December 20-21 is the place to be.
You’ll find local artists selling handmade crafts, Christmas decor, and one-of-a-kind holiday wares.
The fair opens on Friday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., making it a great last-minute shopping stop before the big day.
For those who love early holiday shopping, the Hilo Christmas Extravaganza Craft Fair, running from November 22-23, is another fantastic event.
This one is filled with local art, crafts, and food vendors, and admission is just $2, with children under 12 getting in for free.
Between the lights, the crafts, and the lively community spirit, Hilo has many things to do in Hawaii during Christmas 2024 that will fill your heart full of aloha!
3) Attend Waikiki’s Christmas events
Waikiki transforms into a holiday wonderland each Christmas that offers plenty of festive events and activities. In 2024, there are many destinations to visit on Christmas in Hawaii.
Start by hopping on the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour, which runs from December 3rd to 27th and takes you through Honolulu’s stunning Parade of Lights.
You’ll see Shaka Santa and the colorful festive displays around downtown for $20-$30 per person. The charm? Kids under two ride free, which makes this a budget-friendly option.
If you’re looking for live entertainment, the Rock a Hula Christmas Luau is Hawaii’s must-visit spot on Christmas.
It blends Hawaiian culture with holiday cheer through live music, hula performances, and an Elvis tribute! The luau takes place at the Royal Hawaiian Theater, and ticket prices vary depending on seating.
Shopping enthusiasts should visit the Waikiki Christmas Store, which offers Hawaii-themed holiday decorations and gifts. The Waikiki Beach Walk is another fantastic spot to enjoy live hula performances, browse boutiques, and enjoy Christmas decor.
Head to the Royal Hawaiian Band’s free performance at the International Market Place on December 7th for classic holiday fun. No tickets are needed but get there early to snag a good viewing spot.
Lastly, if you want a special Christmas dinner, book early at Hula Grill or Duke’s Waikiki for a memorable oceanfront feast. Dinner prices at these spots range from moderate to premium, depending on your choice.
These events offer a mix of budget-friendly fun and unique Hawaiian holiday experiences which will make your Christmas in Waikiki unforgettable!
4) Visit Oahu for unlimited fun
Oahu is a top Hawaiian city to be in during Christmas in 2024. One of the highlights is the Holiday City Lights, a month-long celebration featuring dazzling light displays, a 50-foot Christmas tree, and festive parades.
You can also hop on the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour to explore these twinkling displays while enjoying Hawaiian Christmas carols. This trolley tour is perfect for families and costs around $25 per person.
Another must-see event is the Festival of Lights Boat Parade at Hawaii Kai Towne Center, where boats decked out in lights cruise through the marina, providing a magical evening experience for all ages.
For outdoor lovers, the Waikiki Christmas Parade honors veterans and features marching bands and floats along Kalakaua Avenue, which makes it a free and family-friendly event.
Don’t miss the Jingle Rock Run, a charity event at Ko Olina to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
It’s a fun, festive run complete with live entertainment and a visit from Santa himself! Depending on age, you can join in by purchasing a registration pass for $30 to $40.
From light shows to charity events and fine dining, Oahu offers a wonderful blend of holiday activities for every budget and taste.
- Must Read: Top 8 Things To Do In Hawaii This Halloween
Best Hotels To Stay In Hawaii During Christmas
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Halekulani Hotel
- Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
- Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Conclusion
Christmas in Hawaii is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that properly mixes the spice of tropical island culture with sugary classic holiday cheer.
From attending church services to indulging in festive meals with a local twist, the season is filled with aloha spirit.
Whether it’s Santa paddling ashore or markets brimming with island crafts, the celebrations are as warm as the Hawaiian sun. It’s a perfect mix of tradition and tropical magic that makes Christmas in Hawaii genuinely unforgettable.