Celebrating Christmas in Hawaii has a way of blending familiar holiday traditions with the natural beauty and cultural rhythm of the islands. December brings a full lineup of parades, markets, performances, and light displays, creating a festive atmosphere from Waikīkī to Waimea. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic holiday escape, or a warm-weather December adventure, this holiday guide can help you map out your plans across Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai. And with so many events spread out across the islands, booking a rideshare in Oahu or arranging local transportation with holoholo makes getting around part of the experience—not a chore.
Oahu shines especially bright during December, offering some of the most iconic holiday things to do in the state. The Waikīkī Holiday Parade brings together marching bands and community groups from across Hawaii and the mainland, moving along Kalākaua Avenue in a colorful tribute to the season and to Pearl Harbor survivors. Downtown Honolulu transforms for Honolulu City Lights, a month-long celebration that includes the grand tree, Shaka Santa statues, light displays, keiki rides, and holiday concerts that draw both residents and visitors. If you’re staying near the water, the Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade delivers a lively show on the harbor as decorated vessels glide across the shoreline. For those wanting to sample local vendors and a more contemporary gathering, the Christmas Night Market features artisans, food pop-ups, entertainment, and seasonal activities. December on Oahu also brings Ballet Hawaii’s annual performance of The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition that pairs classic choreography with a unique Hawaiian narrative and staging.
Maui’s events carry a warm community spirit with traditions that invite both locals and travelers to join in. One of the island’s most cherished celebrations is the Lighting of the Lahaina Banyan Tree, where thousands of bulbs illuminate the enormous historic landmark. Upcountry, the Kula Botanical Garden Christmas Tree adds a festive touch among the cool mountain landscapes. Holiday shopping at The Shops at Wailea is especially inviting this time of year, with seasonal events, live music, and local artisans offering gifts that reflect Maui’s culture. Families gather along Wailea Beach to watch Santa arrive by outrigger canoe, a beloved island tradition that never fails to inspire. Those looking for activity can join the Jingle Rock Run, which brings walkers and runners together in holiday attire. The month ends with the Wailea Fireworks Display on December 31, lighting up the shoreline as Maui welcomes the new year.
The Big Island provides its own lineup of classic celebrations rooted in community and tradition. In Kailua-Kona, the Community Christmas Parade brings festive floats, music, and hula performances to the heart of town. The Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade lights up the cool upcountry evening with illuminated vehicles and local performers. Visitors to Hilo can enjoy Christmas in the Park at Liliʻuokalani Gardens, where lights, displays, and cultural touches brighten one of Hawaii’s most scenic public spaces. Holualoa hosts its Christmas Music and Lights Festival, a charming village event filled with art galleries, live music, and holiday treats.
Kauai rounds out the season with celebrations that highlight its small-town charm. The Kaua‘i Made Holly Jolly Holiday Fair features local makers and artisans offering handcrafted gifts. The Lights on Rice Parade fills Līhu‘e with floats, performances, and thousands of spectators enjoying one of the island’s biggest annual events. At the Kauai Festival of Lights, visitors can wander through displays crafted with recycled materials and creative artistry. The Waimea Christmas Parade on Kauai brings together schools, businesses, and community groups for a festive procession through the historic west side town.
Christmas in Hawaii blends holiday tradition with island culture in a way that feels both festive and naturally rooted in the community. With so many Oahu events in December 2025—and equally exciting celebrations across Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai—it helps to plan ahead, map out your must-see experiences, and use local transportation to make exploring easier. Booking a rideshare in Oahu with holoholo keeps your plans flexible so you can focus on enjoying the season, island by island.