Spring is one of the most rewarding times to explore the islands, with a full calendar of festivals and events in Hawaiʻi that highlight local culture, food, and outdoor activities. From April events centered on cuisine and endurance races to May events rooted in tradition and community, there’s no shortage of things to do across Oʻahu, Maui, and the Big Island. For visitors planning their itinerary, these seasonal highlights offer a well-rounded look at what makes Hawaiʻi unique.
Late April kicks off with the lively Waikiki Spam Jam Festival on April 25. This annual event transforms five blocks of Kalākaua Avenue—from Seaside Avenue to Liliʻuokalani Avenue—into a large-scale street festival in the heart of Waikiki. Street closures begin at 2:00 PM, and by 4:00 PM, the area becomes a pedestrian-focused celebration with more than 30 restaurants and food vendors serving creative Spam-inspired dishes. The event runs until 10:00 PM, drawing both locals and visitors for an evening of live entertainment and local flavor. In addition to the main event, the Extended Dine-In Spam Experience from April 18 through May 3, 2026, invites participating restaurants to feature limited-time menu items, giving travelers extra time to explore this uniquely local culinary tradition.
On April 26, runners head to Maui for the Maui Marathon, the longest consecutively held running event in the state and the oldest marathon west of the Mississippi River. Starting and finishing near the Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort, the race includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. The updated courses follow an out-and-back route along the scenic Honoapiʻilani Highway, offering ocean views and a steady challenge for participants. Whether you’re running or spectating, the event adds an active dimension to spring travel on Maui.
Chocolate lovers will want to plan around the Big Island Chocolate Festival from April 23–25, 2026, held at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. This multi-day event celebrates cacao through culinary demonstrations, educational seminars, and farm tours led by industry experts. The festival culminates in an evening gala featuring tastings, a chocolate fountain, live entertainment, and a silent auction. It’s one of the more distinctive April events in Hawaiʻi, combining local agriculture with culinary innovation.
As the calendar turns to May, cultural traditions take center stage during Lei Day on May 1. The highlight on Oahu is the 98th Annual Lei Day Celebration at Kapi‘olani Park, running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This event features a large lei contest exhibit, live Hawaiian music, hula performances, and local food vendors. Other islands, including Maui, host their own community gatherings and heritage festivals, offering multiple ways to experience this long-standing tradition that honors the art of lei-making.
Mid-May brings endurance sports back into focus with the Honolulu Triathlon on May 17. Held along the coastline near Ala Moana Beach Park, the event includes races for individuals, families, and relay teams. The sprint triathlon features a 750-meter swim, a 20K bike ride, and a 5K run, all set against oceanfront scenery. It’s a well-organized event that attracts both seasoned athletes and first-time participants.
Memorial Day in Hawaiʻi is marked by the meaningful Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi on May 25. Taking place at Ala Moana Beach in Honolulu, this ceremony invites participants to set candle-lit lanterns afloat on the ocean, symbolizing remembrance and gratitude. It’s a quiet, reflective gathering that draws large crowds and offers a different perspective on the islands’ cultural calendar.
With so many events spread across multiple islands, planning transportation becomes part of the overall experience. For travelers spending time on Oʻahu, booking a rideshare through holoholo is a practical way to get around Honolulu and Waikiki during busy festival weekends. High-traffic areas like Kalākaua Avenue during Spam Jam or Ala Moana Beach Park during major events can limit parking and increase wait times for on-demand transportation. Scheduling rides in advance allows visitors to move between events, hotels, and dining spots without relying on limited parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.
Spring in Hawaiʻi offers a balanced mix of food festivals, cultural celebrations, and outdoor events. Whether you’re planning around April events like the Waikiki Spam Jam and Maui Marathon or looking ahead to May events like Lei Day and the Lantern Floating Ceremony, the season provides a strong lineup of things to do across the islands.