When you think of a traditional holiday season, the Hawaiian Islands are probably the last place to cross your mind. But, if we’re being honest, we absolutely LOVE spending Christmas in Hawaii. Instead of snowstorms and cold weather, we have beach days — and you’ll still find all of your holiday favorites, from hot chocolate and sugar cookies to twinkling lights and holiday festivals. And, boy, do we know how to throw a holiday celebration. The Honolulu City Lights is not only the largest display of Honolulu Christmas lights found across the state but it is also quite a magical affair. The best part? You won’t have to bundle up to enjoy this incredible winter walk like our friends on the mainland might. And that’s definitely something to celebrate.

This iconic event at Honolulu Hale began in 1985 when former Mayor Frank F. Fasi held a free event that featured a magnificent lighted tree, holiday concert on the main lawn, decorated trees in the courtyard, and lights adorning trees and buildings stretching downtown to the civic center.
lucho_84/Flickr
It was the most spectacular display of Christmas lights in Hawaii. The sight absolutely took your breath away.
Every year, the celebration kicks off in early December with food booths, souvenir tents, and keiki rides at Sky Gate, followed by the tree-lighting ceremony in the early evening and an Electric Light Parade, holiday concert, photographs with Santa, and various light displays.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
There are so many wonderful things to see and do when you visit this incredible Christmas light display in Hawaii. There’s something everyone in the family will love to do!
The 50-foot-tall Norfolk Pine tree is decked out in a different theme each year, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s tree looks like.
Honolulu City Lights/Facebook
But you know that no matter what theme they choose, it will take your breath away. And with so many great choices in the past, it’s so fun to wonder what will come next!
If you’re looking for things to do during the holidays in Hawaii, make sure to put this fun event on your list.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
It’s a must-do in December and it’s a fun, bright, and cheerful tradition that will keep you smiling all night long.

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There’s truly nothing more Hawaiian than a Santa throwing a shaka.
Cliff/Flickr
Standing 21 feet high and weighing two tons, Shaka Santa debuted in 1989 and has since become an iconic Christmas landmark in Honolulu. How can you celebrate Christmas without seeing Shaka Santa?
The lights strung through the trees will fill you with holiday cheer.
Honolulu City Lights/Facebook
Brightly colored, they add so much cheer to the festivities. We love the lights wrapped all around the trees!
For the best experience possible, grab a cup of hot chocolate and stroll through the Honolulu Hale grounds before further exploring the downtown area. You never know what magical light displays you'll stumble upon!
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Make an evening of it and enjoy all the sights you’ll see.
While these photographs are certainly gorgeous, there is something to be said for entering a world of glistening lights in person. You absolutely must check it out, so kick off the official holiday season with some enchantment.
Ryan Kawailani Ozawa/Flickr
It’s like entering a fairytale Christmas world, made even better because the air is balmy and warm, and the tree is tall and festive!
The entire event is a crowd-pleaser, from start to finish.
Danielle Chang/Flickr
If you’re looking for a more structured walk, consider participating in the annual Jingle Rock Run. Sponsored by Make-A-Wish Hawaii, this family-friendly, festive event is not only a charitable affair but leads participants through the Honolulu City Lights as well. It’s a great way to give back during this holiday season!

The Honolulu City Lights will stay lit throughout the holiday season, so you have plenty of time to enjoy this magical Christmas attraction. It’s sure to fill you with holiday spirit. The light display is always free and open to Hawaii residents and tourists alike. For more information on exact dates and times as well as all the festivities, be sure to check out the Honolulu Christmas lights website. Will you be headed to Honolulu Hale for opening night, or will you wait a little longer in order to catch the beauty without the crowds?

Let us know in the comments below!

Remember, it’s not truly Christmas in Hawaii until you do these 11 things. So check it out and let us know what you think!

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Honolulu City Lights

Megan McDonald | November 22, 2021

Are there many places to see holiday lights on the island of Oahu?

Oahu has dozens of beautiful holiday light displays, with many located right in Honolulu. The Polynesian Center offers a dazzling display of lights, as well as Grand Wailea and Kailua Christmas Lights. There are so many places to go, you’ll have to visit one each night in December!

Is Honolulu City Lights the biggest light display in Hawaii?

It’s certainly one of the busiest! This event is one of the most anticipated holiday events of the year and everyone looks forward to going each and every year.

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