Mele Kalikimaka: How Honolulu City Lights Became Hawaii’s Ultimate Christmas Magic

Celebrating Christmas in Hawaii is as unique and magical as you’d imagine—palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, cool evening breezes, and the unmistakable spirit of aloha. At the heart of it all is Honolulu City Lights, a month-long Mele Kalikimaka holiday celebration that transforms downtown Honolulu into a winter wonderland—in inimitable Hawaii-style.

For its milestone 40th anniversary this year, the festival is more vibrant and bustling than ever before. It’s a tradition that perfectly captures what makes Christmas in Hawaii so special: community, creativity, and a touch of island magic. We’re sharing some of our photos from this year’s display.

A Christmas celebration like no other.

Picture this: A towering 55-foot Cook pine tree decked out in lights, with Shaka Santa and Mrs. Claus lounging outside in slippers nearby, taking in the sights. Keiki (kids) laughing as they ride the holiday train past glowing displays. Families gather around illuminated tunnels and themed Christmas trees decorated by city departments. This is the essence of Honolulu City Lights—a place where the holidays come alive in a way that feels totally like Hawaii and nowhere else.

As one visitor described, “It’s the kind of event where you can feel the joy all around you. The lights, the music, the food—it’s not just about seeing something pretty; it’s about feeling connected.”

This year, the popularity reached new heights. Many found it harder than usual to find parking like we did, with some even opting for Uber rides after circling downtown multiple times. Despite the crowds, the event’s spirit remained warm and welcoming, offering moments of beauty and togetherness.

The magic of Christmas, island-style.

Unlike snowy winter scenes on the mainland, Hawaii’s version of Christmas has its charm. Instead of scarves and jackets, you’ll find families dressed in aloha shirts and sundresses, enjoying cool trade winds as they stroll under palm trees lit with festive colors. The scent of local treats like malasadas and shave ice drifts through the air, blending with the sound of ukuleles and carolers.

Honolulu City Lights is more than just a display; it reflects how Hawaii celebrates the season—with a focus on community. This year’s dazzling new features, like the 250-foot light tunnels and illuminated trees, add a fresh sparkle to a tradition that has been bringing people together for 40 years.

Why it’s special, even from afar.

For those on the mainland dreaming of a warm-weather Christmas, Honolulu City Lights offers a glimpse into what makes celebrating the holidays in Hawaii so special. It’s a mix of old traditions and new surprises, blending the islands’ warmth with the season’s universal joy.

While the festival wraps up on December 31, its message lingers: Christmas in Hawaii isn’t about snow or cold—it’s about connection, creativity, and the magic of aloha.

Hanukkah menorah lighting island-style.

Separate from Honolulu City Lights, every island hosts a community menorah lighting on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah. Usually, donuts and potato latkes are part of the events. Here’s a picture of last year’s lighting on an ocean bluff next to the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on Kauai. IfTo greet someone in Hawaiian during Hanukkah, say Hau’oli Hanukkah.

To all of our Beat of Hawaii readers, we wish you a Mele Kalikimaka and Chag Hanukkah Sameach from Hawaii.