Some people come here simply for sun and relaxation, while others come to experience different cultures and enjoy great festivals and unique events. These five popular events are a showcase of some of the best events Oʻahu has to offer!
Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau
That’s the official title, though everyone here knows it simply as “the Eddie.” This exclusive big-wave surfing competition is held under strict standards, and as a consequence, doesn’t necessarily take place every year: “the Eddie” will go only when surf measures at least 20 feet for a full day. The holding period for the competition is from December to the end of February, when surf is biggest. When it finally happens, it’s big news, and thousands flock to Waimea Bay to watch the world’s best big-wave surfers compete in this singular event on O’ahu. If you’re lucky enough to be here when it goes off, it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Prince Lot Hula Festival
The biggest noncompetitive hula celebration to be found anywhere, Prince Lot is now in its 40th year. The festival made a big move this past year, from its previous home at the beautiful Moanalua Gardens to ʻIolani Palace in downtown Honolulu, a fitting location for a royal hula celebration. Over two days in July, 20 of Hawaiʻi’s finest halau hula (hula schools) perform their traditional dances for the public, and there are also exhibitions of traditional Hawaiian crafts, as well as numerous mouth-watering food booths. Of course, it’s also a great chance to tour the palace while you’re there!
Sony Open in Hawaiʻi
Golf enthusiasts will not want to miss it: Every January, the PGA Tour kicks off here, at the Waiʻalae Country Club, with over 100 of the world’s best professional golfers. The seven-day event in O’ahu is one of the largest charity events in the state of Hawaiʻi. Enjoy this beautiful setting, a golf oasis in the middle of the city, and cheer on your favorite pros!
Made in Hawaiʻi Festival
23 years old, and getting bigger every year, the Made in Hawaiʻi Festival has become the premier shopping event of the year for those who want to buy locally made. It takes place every August at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall and Arena, in downtown Honolulu. With nearly 400 exhibitors, mostly representing small businesses, showcasing arts, crafts, apparel, jewelry, books, food products, produce, and more, many locals who want to buy local even stock up early for Christmas gifts here! You’ll find it’s the perfect place to buy true made-in-Hawaiʻi gifts and souvenirs.
Hawaiʻi Book and Music Festival
Now in its 12th year, this unique free festival is a showcase of Hawaiʻi’s literary talents. The schedule contains a mixture of nationally famous authors, local authors, storytelling, dramatic performances, hula, and cultural arts. The O’ahu event is housed on the beautiful civic center grounds of Honolulu Hale, near the Hawaiʻi State Library and ʻIolani Palace. It takes place in May, and is surefire fun for book lovers of all ages!
