Dining and Entertainment

There will be a variety of food and entertainment that are new to you in Hawaii, but most of your favorites will also be available. Just about every type of cuisine you can think of is represented on Oahu, and there are several excellent venues for a variety of entertainment.

Dining
Good food abounds in Hawaii. From the simple but delicious local plate lunch (Bento), to the most elegant restaurants with the best views anywhere, Hawaii has something for every taste and budget. In fact, the only problem you might have with local food is not eating too much!

You'll want to try Hawaiian luau favorites like the tender, smoky kalua pig, spicy salted Lomi Lomi Salmon, Huli Huli or Teriyaki Chicken, poi (mashed Taro root) and a variety of sweet local tropical fruits. And don't forget the abundant variety of local fish available!

A large Asian influence in Hawaii brings an incredible variety of Asian foods. Chinese restaurants serve the rich, noodle-based Mandarin, spicy Szechwan and local variations including Dim Sum (Bun filled with sweet meats), Gau (sticky sweet pudding) and the vegetarian monk's food. Japanese food is popular as well, from the finest gourmet restaurants to the simple Ramen stands with their delicious noodles. But the trendy Sushi is still the "in" food. Korean Barbecue with its smoky, sweet sauces, Vietnamese food with its Chinese and French influence and spicy Thai food are plentiful.

In this multi-cultural paradise, the best foods of the world can be found. Your only problem will be deciding which you choose on any given occasion.

Hawaii's Events
Please note that events are subject to change without notice. For the most complete and updated Hawaii calendar, please visit http://gohawaii.com.

December 2011
2011 Honolulu Marathon
Dec. 11, 2011 (Sunday)
Honolulu, Oahu Island, Hawaii (Ala Moana Park to Kapiolani Park via Downtown Honolulu)
The Honolulu Marathon is held every year on the second Sunday in Dec., and the 39th annual event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011. For more information see Introduction to the Honolulu Marathon and the official event website at http://www.honolulumarathon.com.

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing
Nov. and Dec.
The annual Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is the world's premier surfing series that takes place in the giant winter waves of Oahu's North Shore. Stop one is the Vans Hawaiian Pro at Haleiwa Beach. Stop two is the O'Neill World Cup at Sunset Beach. The third and final jewel in the crown is the Pipeline Masters. As the finale to the Association of Surfing Professionals World Tour, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing will crown the world champion at the conclusion of the series. For more information call (808) 638-7700.

O'Neill World Cup of Surfing
Nov. and Dec.
The O'Neill World Cup is the second stop of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing. Also known as the World Cup of Surfing, the O'Neill Cup is the penultimate event on the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Championship Tour. Only the world's Top-ranked pros and four wildcard entrants are permitted to compete in this event. Waves at Sunset Beach can be up to 20 feet thick and up to four stories high.

World Art Bazaar
Late Nov. through Early Dec.
This popular bazaar features one-of-a-kind gift items and vintage and contemporary accents for the home from around the world. Jewelry, ethnic clothing, folk art, baskets, textiles, ornaments and holiday gifts from China, Russia, Indonesia, Africa, Thailand, and South America. No admission charge. Honolulu Academy of Arts Center at Linekona. For more information call (808) 532-8700 .

Lanikai Christmas Craft Fair
Early Dec.
The Lanikai Craft Fair is a bi-annual fundraising event that features over 95 of Hawaii's most talented craftspeople showcasing their original handcrafted goods. Most products are not available anywhere else, created solely for this event. Large selection of Christmas gifts, original art, home accents, clothing, bedding and pillows, pottery, stained glass, woodworking and much more. There is also entertainment and food. Lanikai Park, at the corner of Aalapapa and Kaiolena Streets. For more information call (808) 927-7989.

Christmas Talk Story
Saturdays and Sundays in Dec.
This is a local-style assortment of original stories by local authors are all told from a child's perspective. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Tenney Theatre, St. Andrew's Cathedral. Saturday and Sunday afternoons. For tickets or more information call (808) 839-9885.

Honolulu City Lights
Every Dec. through early Jan.
The Honolulu City Lights are spectacular and a holiday season tradition! Ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. when the city's 63-foot Norfolk Island pine will be lighted at Honolulu Hale. Light Parade will start at 6:30 p.m. proceeding down King St. to Honolulu Hale. Holiday concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at Sky Gate. Indoor Christmas trees and beautiful wreath exhibits are on display in the lobby of Honolulu Hale (City Hall) from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Admission is free. For more information call (808) 523-4358.

Humpback Whale Watching Season
Dec. through Apr.
Humpbacks begin their southern migration from Alaska to Hawai'i in Dec. every year to give birth to their calves as well as to mate. Whales stay through about Apr., but dates can vary somewhat.

Annual Oahu Gingerbread
Family Festival
Early Dec.
The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation presents the Gingerbread Family Festival for the benefit of the Easter Seals Hawaii, which has been providing services to infants, children and adults with disabilities and other special needs, and support to their families since 1946. For more information call (808) 536-1015.

Festival of Angels Craft Show
Early Dec.
Annual YWCA of Oahu Festival of Angels, an Arts and Crafts Event! YWCA of Oahu will showcases some of the top local artisans and craftspeople from the islands. Established in 1987, Festival of Angels is one of the most sought-after craft fairs on Oahu. Lanikea YWCA, 1040 Richards St., Downtown Honolulu, is again opening her doors to promote art and fine crafts in the community and provide unique and compelling arts and crafts to the downtown audience. Mark your calendars... The holidays are just around the corner! For more information call (808) 538-7061, ext. 234.

Festival of Trees
Early Dec.
This craft show and sale benefits the Queen's Medical Center Auxiliary. It will feature custom decorated trees and an exciting array of beautiful, handmade holiday decorations, including intricately crafted Christmas shadow boxes. Held in the Ward Warehouse. Admission is $1; children 12 years and younger are free. For more information call (808) 547-4397.

Annual Honolulu Gift Fair
3rd Weekend in Dec.
Shop over 300 vendors at the Neil Blaisdell Center. Apparel; Antiques, Collectibles and Coins; Arts and Crafts; Books and Music; Food and Beverage; Gadgets and Toys; Health and Beauty; Home and Garden; Jewelry; Made in Hawaii; Personal Services; Pet Supplies; Visits by Santa; Prizes. For more information call (808) 942-3110.

Pacific Handcrafters Christmas Fair
Mid Dec.
A festival of fine arts and crafts that is free and open to the public featuring pottery, wood, clothing, glass, jewelry, seed leis, Japanese style bags, polymer clay art, folk art, metal sculpture, miniature Hawaiian hula ornaments and fish hook pendants. Food and entertainment. Native Hawaiian plant education and sale, Massage Tent, Bonsai demonstration, Martial Arts demonstration. Thomas Square Park. For more information call (808) 254-6788.

January 2012
Ala Wai Challenge
Last weekend in Jan.
An all-day event in Ala Wai Park, Waikiki consisting of traditional Hawaiian games such as spear throwing, bowling, tug of war and an outrigger canoe race.

New Year's Ohana Festival
Early Jan.
This annual all-day affair features a variety of cultural exhibits, demonstrations, entertainment, food booths and craft demonstrations. The festivities take place at the Japanese Cultural Center, 2454 S. Beretania, Honolulu and Moiliili Field, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free. For more information call (808) 945-7633.

Sony Open in Hawaii PGA
Tour Tournament
Mid Jan.
The Sony Open in Hawaii launches the first full-field PGA Tour event of the year during its Aloha Season. The Sony Open in Hawaii features over 140 internationally-renowned golf professionals competing for the $918,000 champion's prize of the overall $5.1 million purse. Played at the Waialae Country Club golf course. Tickets available for purchase at all Oahu First Hawaiian Bank locations. Tickets are also available at the gate. For more information call (808) 523-7888.

Hula Bowl
Mid Jan.
Honolulu's Aloha Stadium hosts the Best of the Best collegiate all-star players in this annual premier football game. Televised live in primetime. For tickets or more information call (800) 971-1232.

Aloha Gymfest
Mid Jan.
Hawaii's leading multinational girls gymnastics competition featuring top teams from Hawaii, the mainland and other countries such as Canada, Japan and Australia. Aloha Gymfest is the longest continuously held gymnastics competition in the USA. Held at Kailua High School. For more information call (808) 235-6866.

February 2012
NFL Pro Bowl
First Sunday in Feb.
The National Football League's pro players compete in this annual gridiron all-star game at the Aloha Stadium.

Cool Kailua Nights Block Party
Early Feb.
Celebrate the best of Kailua's food, fun and spirit at this street festival and wellness fair as the community rallies to raise funds for friends and families affected by cancer. The festivities include food sampling, local entertainment, carnival rides, giveaways and more! This event takes place on Kailua's Uluniu and Aulike Streets in Kailua town 4 to 9:30 p.m., near Assagio's and Baci Bistro restaurants. Free to the public! For more information call (808)782-7576.

Mardi Gras Celebration
Early Feb.
Put on your feathers and join the biggest Mardi Gras party in town! Aloha Tower Marketplace presents its annual Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday Celebration featuring live entertainment on multiple stages with jazz and blues, a Brazilian Samba parade, and strolling entertainers performing throughout the Marketplace. In addition, there will be FREE beads and prize giveaways throughout the night. Participating restaurants will offer food and drink specials as part of their regular menus. For more information call (808) 566-2337.

Bia Home Building and Remodeling Show
Early Feb.
This popular annual event showcases the best new building industry products and services. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. For more information call BIA at (808) 847-4666, ext. 206.

Academy Shop Clearance Sale
Mid Feb.
Honolulu Academy of Arts' Academy Art Center offers this very popular annual sale with extraordinary bargains on books, jewelry, stationery, posters, ethnic clothing, and one-of-a-kind collectibles. Free admission. Four-day event at 1111 Victoria St. For more information call (808) 532-8700.

Chinese New Year Celebration
Mid Feb.
Celebrate the Chinese New Year at the Mun Fa Cultural Plaza, Beretania and Maunakea Streets. Lots of entertainment, lion dance, food booths, pageants and more. The Chinese Cultural Plaza on Beretania at River Street opens to the public and is transformed into a festival bazaar. For more information call the Chinese Chamber of Commerce at (808) 533-3181.

Pearl Open and Pro-Am Golf
Mid Feb.
Watch the pros at the Pearl Country Club, 98-535 Kaonohi St. in Aiea. Every year 190 top professional and amateur golfers from Japan and America compete in this four-day event. Free Admission. Everyone welcome! For more information call (808) 487-3802.

Great Aloha Run
Mid Feb.
Hawaii's largest participatory event raises money annually for numerous local charities, encourages a healthy lifestyle, promotes physical fitness and brings people from all over the world together. This 8.15 mile run/walk starts at Aloha Tower in downtown Honolulu (with entertainment along the route) and ends in Aloha Stadium. Prior to the Monday, Presidents' Day race every year is a 3-day Health, Fitness and Sports Expo, Senior Citizens Fun Run/Walk and a Keiki (Children) Fun Run and Circus Party. Entry Fee. For more information call (808) 528-7388.

March 2012
Straub/Kapiolani Women's 10k
Early Mar.
Hawaii's premier women's race. Starting time is 7 a.m.. The 6.2-mile race from Kapiolani Park goes through Diamond Head and Kahala and back to the park. For more information call (808) 524-6755.

Hawaii Dragon Boat Festival
Early Mar.
This annual event is rich with culture and color takes place at Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu. Teams from around the world race in festive dragon boats across a 500 meter course. Ethnic food booths, crafts, entertainment and cultural exhibits. For more information call (808) 951-0350.

Hawaii Music Awards
Mid Mar.
The Hawaii Music Awards is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the diversity of music found in Hawaii and the Pacific Rim by honoring and acknowledging the talents and achievements of the music community. Music education is supported by providing funding for scholarships and grants for the Music Foundation of Hawaii. Excellence is recognized in the recording arts and professions and supporting businesses. The Award Show venue changes from year to year. Send e-mail to info@hawaiimusic awards.com For more information call (808) 951-6699.

Sports Carnival
Two Weekends in Mar.
Annual carnival benefits youth sports organizations. Carnival rides, games, food booths, and entertainment all at Aloha Stadium. Admission fee. For more information call (808) 682-5767.

Heiva I Honolulu
Mid Mar.
Tahiti Nui International's "Heiva I Honolulu," presents a variety of dance and music over three days. Categories include Solo, Group, 'Ote'a, Aparima, Ahupurotu, Mama Ruau and Drumming. Handicrafts and entertainment from the South Pacific will be highlighted in the annual celebration of Tahitian culture and dance. There is a fee for admission. For more information call (808) 384-2765.

Honolulu Festival & Parade
Mid Mar.
Hawaii's premier event promoting cultural understanding, economic cooperation and ethnic harmony between the people of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region. The Festival kicks off at the Hawaii Convention Center, and will feature a variety of events at different Oahu venues. The Festival will culminate with a grand parade down Kalakaua Avenue. For more information call (808) 926-2424.

Waikiki Artfest
Late Mar.
Presented by the Handcrafters and Artisans Alliance. Handmade in Hawaii products for sale by the artists, including wood products, clothing, jewelry, stained glass, candles, quilts, ceramic arts. Enjoy live entertainment, good food, and meet the artists. Kapiolani Park, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call (808) 696-6717.

April 2012
Hawaii International Spring
Film Festival
Early Apr.
The Hawaii International Spring Film Festival, showcasing 20 independent feature films, is held at the Signature Dole Cannery Theatres. Expect the very best and latest in independent and global cinema. This Spring Festival has grown exponentially over the years and has become just as popular and successful as the main Fall Festival. For more information call (808) 528-3456.

Hawaii Invitational
International Music Festival
Two Weeks in Mid Apr.
High school and junior high groups, college bands and pageantry units perform in competition for two weeks in Waikiki. Free concerts in the park and the Annual "Salute to Youth" parade on Kalakaua Avenue. Join participants from Hawaii, the mainland and around the world in the largest Spring Break festival on Oahu. Festival tour and participation is by invitation only, but admission to all events is free and visitors are welcome. For more information call (800) 448-2374.

Annual HFIA Hawaii's Woodshow
Mid Apr.
Hawaii's Woodshow highlights local woodworking. In addition to heirloom-quality works made from native Koa, a stunning and unique wood found only in Hawaii, there are striking works of art and furniture crafted from dozens of other island-grown hardwoods which offer fantastic variety in color and figure. The free HFIA Woodshow was created to educate and promote an appreciation of the tremendous variety of Hawaii-grown woods. The show encourages the use of conservative woodworking techniques such as veneering that can make the most effective use of woods that may be in limited supply. Pieces entered in the Woodshow must be made predominantly from locally-grown woods, and certain rare or endangered species are prohibited. Experience masterful creations of furniture, art, musical instruments, bowls and more. Open Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. FREE (donations to Hawaii Forest Industry Association appreciated).

Young Peoples' Spring Exhibit
Mid Apr.
A selection of children's artwork from the spring session of the Honolulu Academy of Arts Center classes. Free Admission. For more information call (808) 532-8700.

Hawaii Youth Symphony Association Spring Concert
Mid Apr.
Please join the Hawaii Youth Symphony Association for exciting performances by Youth Symphony II, and Concert Orchestra. Pearl City Cultural Center. For more information call (808) 941-9706.

Annual Aids Walk
Mid Apr.
The annual AIDS Walk is held at Kapiolani Park. This event is a community gathering to raise awareness about the continuing AIDS epidemic and to support the HIV prevention and client services programs of the Life Foundation. For more information call (808) 521-2437, ext. 240.

Leeward Community College
Dance Festival
Late Apr.
With a reputation for presenting Hawaii's finest young dancers in works by established and emerging choreographers, the festival presents a variety of traditional, cutting-edge, and risk-taking dance styles. Leeward Community College Theatre, Pearl City. For more information call (808) 455-0385.

Miss Teen Hawaii International Pageant
Late Apr.
Contestants ages 13 to 18 compete for the title of Miss Teen Hawaii International. Pageant events consist of buffet dinner with entertainment by local singers. Pageant will be held at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. For more information call (808) 221-2434.

May 2012
Annual Lei Day Celebration
May 1st
An annual holiday for Hawaiians that features lei-making contests and pageantry.

Memorial Day
Late May
Held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl by the U.S. armed forces to recognize fallen soldiers.

Taste of the Stars
Early May
This annual event showcases creations by Hawaii's premier resort and restaurant chefs. The evening also includes live entertainment, a martini bar, imported beer, wine, champagne, coffee bar, tea bar and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Leeward Community College culinary arts program. The Taste of the Stars is held on the Leeward Community College campus at 96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City. For more information call (808) 455-0668.

Maori Song & Dance Festival
Early May
Te Kapa Haka o Manoa presents the annual Ahurei festival, a presentation of traditional song and dance of the indigenous people of New Zealand. The kapa haka or Maori performing arts group is comprised of students from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The afternoon will feature award winning Maori kapa haka groups based in Laie, including Te Hokioi led by Seamus Fitzgerald and Te Wananga Maori o Hawaii led by Tama Halverson and Shannon Gale'ai. University of Hawaii at Manoa, Orvis Auditorium. Join us for an afternoon of song, dance and cultural gathering! For more information call Jamie Tuuta, Maori language instructor, at (808) 956-2227.

Bananaman 5k

Mid May
The annual Jamba Juice Banana Man 5K Chase throughout Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island. Start time 8 a.m. Come prepared to run, walk or stroll (or watch) with the goal of catching the "bunch" of lead runners wearing Jamba banana costumes. Do so and win Jamba for a Year!
For the benefit Muscular Dystrophy Association of Hawaii (MDA). For more information call (808) 593-4454.

World Fire Knife Dance Competition
Mid May
Competitors from around the world come to the Polynesian Cultural Center every year to vie for the title of world's best. See who can brave the flaming nifooti while twisting, turning and performing innovative routines never seen before. Preliminary and semi-final events will be held in the Hale Aloha. Admission fee. For more information call (800) 367-7060.

Honolulu Symphony Ball
Mid May
This annual fundraiser, a lavishly produced event, raises money to support youth concerts and youth education. For more information call (808) 524-0815, ext. 244.

Visitor Industry Charity Walk
Mid May
The Hawaii Hotel Association's annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk is Hawaii's largest single-day fundraiser, taking place simultaneously on Oahu, Maui, Big Island and Kauai. Each year, proceeds benefit local charities. Third Saturday in May. For more information call (808) 923-0407.

Hawaii Secondary School
Hula Kahiko Competition
Late May
The annual Hula Kahiko competition brings together intermediate and high school students who demonstrate skill and knowledge related to Hawaiian dance and other aspects of the Hawaiian culture. For more information call (808) 521-6905.

State Fair
Four Weekends in May and Jun.
Food, games, a midway of E.K. Fernandez rides, and booths. There is an admission fee. Aloha Stadium (Parking Lot). For more information call (808) 682-5767.

Aloha Show & Shine Car Show
Memorial Day & Labor Day
Cars, music, shopping, food, fun... all in one stadium! The annual Aloha Show & Shine exhibits over 100 different cars including offroad, drifters, dragsters, imports, lowriders, stock cars, choppers, and lots more! There will be delicious BBQ and live band performances! So, come on over to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet and enjoy the festivities! 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call (808) 486-6704.

Miss Hawaii Golf Tournament
Late May
Miss Hawaii Golf Tournament at the Pearl Country Club. $500,000 in scholarship awards. Banquet and pageant follows golf tournament. For more information call (808) 479-8098.

June 2012
Starbuck's Hawaii's Wildest Show Series
Every Wednesday in Jun., Jul. and Aug.
This popular summertime series features the top entertainers in Hawaii at the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki. Music, keiki activities and more. A donation is collected to benefit the Zoo's Animal Browse Garden. For more information call Honolulu Zoo Society (808) 926-3191.

Hoolaulea, Carnival and Block Party
Early Jun.
Part of the Annual Pan-Pacific Festival - Matsuri in Hawaii. A parade and block party on Kalakaua Avenue. Entertainers from Japan and Hawaii perform on five stages, street performers, ethnic food booths. Evening. For more information call (808) 926-8177, ext. 279.

Japanese Outdoor Performances
Early Jun.
Part of the Annual Pan-Pacific Festival - Matsuri in Hawaii. Performers recreate the type of street entertainment that traveled to the villages of old Japan. Outdoor performances at Ala Moana Shopping Center stage each day 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m. Free. For more information call (808) 923-0492.

King Kamehameha Floral Parade
Mid Jun.
Colorful floral floats, glamorous Pau riders, and outstanding marching bands traverse the streets of Honolulu beginning at King and Richards Streets. Parade continues on Punchbowl Street, Ala Moana Boulevard, Kalakaua Avenue and ends at the Queen Kapiolani Park. Awards presentation follows. Craft demonstrations and food booths. For more information call (808) 586-0335.

Statue Decoration Ceremonies Aliolani Hale
Early Jun.
The statue of King Kamehameha I, in the Honolulu Civic Center, is decorated with 13-foot floral leis, which are created on site throughout the day by volunteers. Music and Hula performances add to the colorful display. Great photo op! For more information call (808) 586-0333.

Hawaiian Half-Marathon
and 5-Mile Fun Run/Walk
Early Jun.
Part of the Annual Pan Pacific Festival—Matsuri in Hawaii. Begins at Magic Island, continues through Waikiki, around Diamond Head to Kapiolani Park. Fun run/walk starts in the morning at Diamond Head side entrance to Ala Moana Park. For more information call (808) 923-0492.

Na Hoku Hanohano Awards
Mid Jun.
Presented annually by the Hawaiian Academy of Recording Arts (HARA), the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards is Hawaii's version of the Grammy Music Awards held each year at a local hotel. Most Promising Artist of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Popular Hawaiian Album of the Year, are some of the many Hoku awards presented. For more information call (808) 593-9424.

King Kamehameha Hula Competition
Late Jun.
An annual international cultural event taking place over several days and featuring dance troups from the mainland, Japan, and Hawaii. Both traditional and contemporary styles of hula are performed by male groups, female groups, mixed groups and kupuna wahine. Individual chanters in the kahiko division. This event is Oahu's longest running competition and is held at the Blasidell Center Arena in Honolulu. Fee charged. For more information call (808) 536-6540.

Flavors of Honolulu
Late Jun.
The Flavors of Honolulu is a premier food and entertainment event, providing a festive multicultural experience for the community. The festival features the finest food from a wide variety of the best local restaurants. Featured personalities include the best in local and national entertainers and performing artists. The annual event spans three days and takes place at Honolulu Hale on South King Street. For more information call (808) 532-2115.

Entertainment
Concerts, movies, nightclubs, dancing, karaoke and just about every entertainment you enjoyed on the mainland are available in Hawaii, though perhaps not always in the same quantities. There are several larger facilities for concerts, sporting events and other large-scale entertainment, and if you read the newspapers and local entertainment guides, you will find plenty to do in Hawaii.

Whatever your tastes, Hawaiian music comes highly recommended. You will hear elements of country, folk, rock, blues and more in the songs of local artists. But you may be surprised to learn that as often as not it is Hawaiian musicians who have influenced their mainland counterparts!

The most popular Hawaiian musicians are amazingly accessible. You can find "Hoku" (Hawaii's "Grammys") winners performing at everyday functions, small clubs and restaurants and at concert venues throughout the islands constantly.

You should attend at least one luau while in Hawaii. There you will experience authentic Hawaiian food, song and dance and some luaus even teach Hawaiian crafts.

The fine arts are also well represented in Hawaii. Several excellent museums showcase classical and contemporary art as well as unique Hawaiian and Pacific art. The Honolulu Symphony is on par with any major symphony and ballet, opera and art exhibits can be found by reading the major daily newspapers. In Hawaii, you can enjoy your favorite entertainment and recreation, and will likely find some new favorites as well!  read more...

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