December Escapes to Waikiki, Honolulu – Oahu Wonders, Things to Do And Places to Stay. Part 2

This December take a break from the cold and come enjoy all the warmth that Oahu has to offer. Come to the lively island to enjoy the luau and lei traditions, and settle into the easygoing sway of island life. Some events taking place on Oahu, in December are:

2nd Annual Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace on December 10th, local holiday shop catering to visitors and residents who are looking for holiday gifts and family activities. $4 for adults, $3 seniors 60+, children under 12 free with a paying adult. 10am-5pm at Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

Kapolei City Lights enjoy the Electric Light Parade on December 10th. The beautiful Christmas trees at Kapolei Hale, and the Street Party, which features food trucks, entertainment, and many free activities for keiki. 3pm-8pm at Kapolei Hale, 1000 Uluohia.

44th Annual Honolulu Marathon is on December 11, 26 miles, 385 yards or 42.195 kilometers this scenic course includes ocean views alongside the world-famous Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head and Koko Head volcanic craters. The starting line is Ala Moana Beach Park at 5am on Ala Moana Blvd. finishing at Kapiolani Park.

Way Too Merry is on December 11, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Honolulu’s Holiday Concert. Circle the holidays with traditional sleigh rides and jingle bells, then add a dash of camp with A Drag Queen Christmas and Deck the Rooftop. Round out the evening with the tight harmonies of madrigal numbers. 5:30pm.

1st Annual Ka Kapolei Makahiki is on December 17th, food, entertainment, and Makahiki games for all ages! This event celebrates Makahiki, the Hawaiian New Year, and a 4-month period in the Hawaiian Calendar dedicated to peace, agriculture, and communal sports. Free admission and parking, open to public. 9am-noon at the Kapolei Regional Park.

Makahiki Challenge is also on December 17th, it’s an annual challenge for the people of Hawaii and its visitors. A 3 plus miles journey through tireless hills, obstacles, and mud. At Kualoa Ranch, 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe.

Waikiki New Year’s Fireworks on December 31st, will start at 11:55 pm. From a barge just off Waikiki Beach, one announcement salute will be fired every minute until 1 minute before midnight. This is the signal for everyone to direct their attention toward the ocean and to tune your radio to 105FM to enjoy music choreographed by Fireworks. The show will end with the famous Grucci Grand Finale. More than 1,800 shells will be fired during the show.

Ko Olina New Year’s Fireworks is also on December 31st, Disney Aulani Resort which lives up to the Disneyland reputation with a spectacular fireworks extravaganza. So arrive early for parking and pull up a beach chair before midnight.

6th Annual Budlight New Year’s Eve is on December 31st, at Aloha Tower Marketplace in Honolulu. 6pm-2am (the following day).

Star of Honolulu New Year’s Eve Cruises is also on December 31st, a lot of cruises will be available to view the fireworks.