Hawaii Festivals 2025 (Spirit of Aloha): Date, Activities, Tickets, and Advice

Discover Hawaii’s Vibrant Festivals and Traditions

Hawaii, the enchanting island paradise, is not just about sun-soaked beaches and lush landscapes. The islands are home to a rich culture and a vibrant array of festivals throughout the year. From hula competitions to seafood festivals, and celebrations of ancient Polynesian traditions to contemporary art events, Hawaii offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its unique heritage and community spirit.

Overview of Hawaii Festivals in 2025

Hawaii’s festivals reflect the islands’ unique blend of Polynesian culture, Asian influences, and Western traditions. Each event is infused with the spirit of Aloha, showcasing the state’s love for music, dance, food, and community. From the Merrie Monarch Festival celebrating hula traditions to the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, these events offer unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Every island has its own festivals that highlight its distinct character. Whether you’re savoring fresh poke at a food fair, enjoying the rhythmic beats of a luau, or admiring the beauty of lei-making competitions, Hawaii’s festivals provide a vibrant cultural journey.

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Festivals in Hawaii 2025

List of Festivals in Hawaii by Month (2025)

January

1. Honolulu City Lights Closing Night

• Date: January 1, 2025
• Location: Honolulu, Oahu
• Significance: Celebrates the holiday season’s grand finale with stunning light displays.
• Activities: Holiday decorations, food vendors, live music, and a dazzling fireworks display.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and rideshares recommended due to limited parking.

2. Waimea Ocean Film Festival

• Date: January 1–8, 2025
• Location: Waimea and Kohala Coast, Big Island
• Significance: Showcases environmental and ocean-themed films.
• Activities: Film screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and art exhibits.
• Tickets: Festival passes available online.
• Transportation: Parking available near venues; carpooling is encouraged.

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February

1. Panaewa Stampede Rodeo

• Date: February 15–17, 2025
• Location: Hilo, Big Island
• Significance: Highlights Hawaii’s paniolo (cowboy) culture.
• Activities: Bull riding, barrel racing, and traditional Hawaiian rodeo events.
• Tickets: Available at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site.

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2. Maui Whale Festival

• Date: February 10–24, 2025 (Various Events)
• Location: Maui
• Significance: Celebrates the annual migration of humpback whales to Hawaiian waters.
• Activities: Whale watching, educational exhibits, and live performances.
• Tickets: Some events are free; whale-watching tours require tickets.
• Transportation: Parking available near venues.

March

1. Honolulu Festival

• Date: March 8–10, 2025
• Location: Honolulu, Oahu
• Significance: Promotes cultural exchange between Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region.
• Activities: Parades, traditional performances, craft fairs, and fireworks.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking is limited.

2. Kona Brewers Festival

• Date: March 16, 2025
• Location: Kona, Big Island
• Significance: A fundraiser supporting environmental conservation and education programs.
• Activities: Craft beer tastings, food pairings, and live entertainment.
• Tickets: Available online; includes beer tastings and a commemorative glass.
• Transportation: Parking available; shuttle services may be provided.

April

1. Merrie Monarch Festival

• Date: April 7–13, 2025
• Location: Hilo, Big Island
• Significance: Hawaii’s premier hula competition honoring King David Kalākaua.
• Activities: Hula performances, craft fairs, and a royal parade.
• Tickets: Available online; sell out quickly.
• Transportation: Parking available; carpooling encouraged.

2. East Maui Taro Festival

• Date: April 20, 2025
• Location: Hana, Maui
• Significance: Celebrates taro, a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and culture.
• Activities: Food tastings, cultural demonstrations, and live music.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the festival grounds.

May

1. Lei Day Celebration

• Date: May 1, 2025
• Location: Statewide
• Significance: A statewide celebration of the Hawaiian lei-making tradition.
• Activities: Lei-making competitions, hula performances, and cultural exhibits.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit in urban areas.

2. Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival

• Date: May 18–19, 2025
• Location: Hanapepe, Kauai
• Significance: Highlights Kauai’s locally grown chocolate and coffee industries.
• Activities: Tastings, cooking demos, and workshops.
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site.

June

1. King Kamehameha Day Celebration

• Date: June 11, 2025
• Location: Statewide
• Significance: Honors King Kamehameha the Great and his unification of the Hawaiian Islands.
• Activities: Parades, floral floats, hula, and traditional music.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and rideshares recommended.

2. Pan-Pacific Festival

• Date: June 7–9, 2025
• Location: Waikiki, Oahu
• Significance: Celebrates cultural diversity across the Pacific.
• Activities: Live performances, street parties, and parades.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit.

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July

1. 4th of July Fireworks at Ala Moana Beach Park

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Ala Moana Beach Park, Oahu
• Significance: One of the largest Independence Day celebrations in Hawaii.
• Activities: Live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit; parking is limited near the beach.

2. Prince Lot Hula Festival

• Date: July 20–21, 2025
• Location: Iolani Palace, Oahu
• Significance: Celebrates the preservation and promotion of traditional hula.
• Activities: Hula performances, cultural exhibits, and local artisan markets.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; limited parking available near the venue.

August

1. Made in Hawaii Festival

• Date: August 16–18, 2025
• Location: Neal S. Blaisdell Center, Honolulu, Oahu
• Significance: Highlights locally crafted products and goods.
• Activities: Local art displays, food tastings, and live demonstrations.
• Tickets: Available online and at the venue.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit; parking available at the Blaisdell Center.

2. Aloha Festivals’ Royal Court Investiture and Opening Ceremony

• Date: August 31, 2025
• Location: Waikiki, Oahu
• Significance: Kicks off the month-long Aloha Festivals, celebrating Hawaiian culture and heritage.
• Activities: Royal court investiture, traditional chanting, and hula performances.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; limited parking in Waikiki.

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September

1. Aloha Festivals Waikiki Ho‘olaule‘a

• Date: September 14, 2025
• Location: Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, Oahu
• Significance: A lively block party showcasing Hawaiian music, food, and dance.
• Activities: Street performances, food vendors, and cultural demonstrations.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit; parking is limited.

2. Kauai Mokihana Festival

• Date: September 22–28, 2025
• Location: Various locations on Kauai
• Significance: Celebrates Hawaiian culture through music, hula, and language.
• Activities: Hula competitions, Hawaiian language workshops, and music performances.
• Tickets: Festival passes available online.
• Transportation: Parking available at event venues.

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October

1. Hawaii Food & Wine Festival

• Date: October 5–27, 2025
• Location: Various locations across Hawaii
• Significance: Hawaii’s premier culinary event featuring renowned chefs and local ingredients.
• Activities: Gourmet dinners, wine tastings, and cooking demonstrations.
• Tickets: Available online; early booking is recommended.
• Transportation: Parking available at event sites; carpooling encouraged.

2. Ironman World Championship

• Date: October 12, 2025
• Location: Kailua-Kona, Big Island
• Significance: The pinnacle of triathlon competitions, attracting athletes from around the world.
• Activities: Triathlon race, spectator zones, and celebratory events post-race.
• Tickets: Free for spectators; participants must register in advance.
• Transportation: Parking available near the event site; public transit options are limited.

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November

1. Vans Triple Crown of Surfing

• Date: November 12–30, 2025
• Location: North Shore, Oahu
• Significance: A prestigious surfing competition showcasing top surfers.
• Activities: Live surfing competitions, community markets, and beach events.
• Tickets: Free for spectators.
• Transportation: Parking available near beaches; shuttle services may be provided.

2. Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

• Date: November 7–16, 2025
• Location: Kona, Big Island
• Significance: Celebrates Kona’s coffee-growing heritage and culture.
• Activities: Coffee tastings, farm tours, and cultural demonstrations.
• Tickets: Available online and at the festival.
• Transportation: Parking available at event venues.

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December

1. Honolulu City Lights Opening Night

• Date: December 7, 2025
• Location: Honolulu, Oahu
• Significance: Kicks off the holiday season with festive lights and decorations.
• Activities: Tree lighting ceremony, live music, and holiday-themed activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking is limited.

2. Waimea Christmas Parade

• Date: December 14, 2025
• Location: Waimea, Big Island
• Significance: A festive parade bringing holiday cheer to the Big Island community.
• Activities: Floats, marching bands, and Christmas-themed performances.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the parade route.

Conclusion

Hawaii’s festivals in 2025 beautifully showcase the islands’ culture, traditions, and natural beauty. From the iconic Merrie Monarch Festival to the culinary delights of the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Waikiki or the tranquil shores of Maui, these events invite you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Aloha.

FAQs About Hawaii Festivals in 2025

1. What are the best cultural festivals in Hawaii?

• Must-attend events include the Merrie Monarch Festival, Aloha Festivals, and Kauai Mokihana Festival.

2. Are Hawaii festivals family-friendly?

• Yes, most festivals, like the Maui Whale Festival and Lei Day Celebrations, are perfect for families.

3. When is the best time to visit Hawaii for festivals?

• Spring and fall are ideal, with highlights like the Honolulu Festival and Hawaii Food & Wine Festival.

4. Do I need tickets for Hawaii festivals?

• Many festivals are free, but some events, like the Merrie Monarch Festival, require advance ticket purchases.

5. Are there outdoor festivals in Hawaii?

• Hawaii’s festivals often take place outdoors, celebrating the islands’ stunning landscapes and tropical weather.

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