Hawaiian Christmas Traditions: Best Events to Attend in 2024
Introduction
When you think of Christmas, snow-covered rooftops and cozy fireplaces may come to mind. But in Hawaii, Christmas takes on a unique tropical twist, blending traditional holiday cheer with the warm aloha spirit. Let’s explore the fascinating Hawaiian Christmas traditions that make this season unforgettable on the islands.
Key Takeaways of Hawaiian Christmas Traditions
- Hawaii provides a one-of-a-kind tropical holiday experience at Christmas, combining warm island weather with a rich blend of Polynesian and English traditions.
- Hawaiian Christmas traditions bring a unique island flair, featuring lively parades with Santa arriving by canoe, festive luaus serving traditional dishes like kalua pork and lomi lomi salmon, and even the joyful tradition of surfing on Christmas Day.
- Discover the joy of saying “Mele Kalikimaka” (Merry Christmas) in Hawaiian, along with other festive words and phrases that capture the holiday spirit in the islands.
- Hawaii’s most popular Christmas events include the dazzling Honolulu City Lights, the vibrant Waikiki Holiday Parade, and festive celebrations at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
The Historical Roots of Christmas in Hawaii
Christmas was formally introduced to Hawaii after 1820 when Protestant missionaries arrived from New England. However, ancient Hawaiians already had their festival, Makahiki, which coincided with the holiday season. This four-month celebration featured feasts, games, and a strict ban on wars, embodying the spirit of “peace on earth and goodwill toward men.”
Hawaii’s first recorded Christmas celebration occurred in 1786 when Captain George Dixon of the merchant ship Queen Charlotte anchored in Waimea Bay, Kauai. His crew enjoyed a festive meal of roasted pig, pie, and rum mixed with coconut milk, accompanied by toasts to loved ones back home.
In 1856, King Kamehameha IV proclaimed December 25 as a national day of Thanksgiving. By 1862, Christmas became an official holiday in Hawaii. Santa Claus even made his first Hawaiian appearance at Washington Place in 1858, delivering gifts to children.
Today, Hawaiians enthusiastically embrace Christmas, blending local traditions with global holiday celebrations.
Unique Hawaiian Christmas Traditions
Hawaiian Christmas traditions reflect the islands’ warm climate and culture, with palm trees replacing pine, sandmen instead of snowmen, and sticky rice over potatoes. If you dream of a tropical Christmas, these unique traditions showcase Hawaii’s festive Aloha spirit.
Before Christmas, There Was Makahiki
Before introducing Christmas to Hawaii, the indigenous people celebrated Makahiki, a four-month festival honoring the earth and the god Lono. This sacred time included feasting and rest.
While Makahiki later merged with Christmas celebrations, its traditional foods and cultural roots remain integral to Hawaiian holiday traditions.
Christmas trees arrive by ship
Hawaii’s tropical paradise is naturally suited for palm trees, not pines. Yet, many locals still embrace the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree. “Christmas tree ships” arrive yearly, delivering fresh trees in refrigerated containers to the islands.
Meanwhile, others celebrate with a local twist, adorning palm trees with dazzling Christmas lights that create a magical glow after sunset.
Shaka Santa rides an outrigger canoe
In Hawaii, even Santa embraces the aloha spirit. Known as “Shaka Santa,” he embodies the laid-back charm of the islands, complete with the famous “hang loose” hand sign. A highlight of the Honolulu City Lights festival, the iconic statue of Shaka Santa waving from his perch is a beloved sight for locals and visitors alike.
Santa’s arrival in Hawaii is a perfect reflection of Hawaiian Christmas traditions, embracing the islands’ tropical charm. Forget the sleigh and reindeer—Shaka Santa makes his grand entrance on an outrigger canoe pulled by dolphins, bringing festive cheer straight from the Pacific waves.
This imaginative twist captures Hawaii’s vibrant culture and creativity, blending the joy of the holiday season with the natural beauty of the ocean. Even without reindeer or snow, the magic of Christmas radiates brightly as Santa glides ashore in true island style!
Christmas luau
In Hawaii, no Christmas celebration is complete without a feast. Families and communities come together, often in backyards or on beaches, to share a festive meal or enjoy a traditional luau. At the heart of these gatherings is the iconic kalua pig, a centerpiece of Hawaiian cuisine.
Prepared using the traditional imu method, the pig is buried in an underground oven lined with hot rocks and banana leaves. This slow-cooking process infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavor and tender texture that’s undeniably worth the wait.
As part of Hawaiian Christmas traditions, whether surrounded by loved ones at a backyard feast or a grand luau, the Kalua Pig is a delicious reminder of the islands’ deep culinary heritage and unique way of celebrating Christmas.
Mele Kalikimaka
In Hawaii, spreading holiday cheer comes with its tropical flair and is deeply rooted in Hawaiian Christmas traditions. Instead of saying “Merry Christmas,” Hawaiians greet one another with the iconic phrase “Mele Kalikimaka,” which directly translates to “Merry Christmas.” This unique greeting captures the islands’ festive spirit while reflecting the Hawaiian language’s influence.
Bing Crosby and a few others have turned this Hawaiian Christmas chorus into a beloved household tune. The line, “Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say on a bright Hawaiian Christmas Day,” perfectly captures the spirit of the season. True to the song, locals proudly use this phrase to wish everyone a joyous and festive holiday.
Singing Hawaiian Christmas Carols
In Hawaii, Christmas carols take on a tropical charm, with ukuleles and guitars leading the way. As part of Hawaiian Christmas traditions, a luau or family feast often evolves into a joyful sing-along, complete with hula dancing and Hawaiian renditions of classic Christmas songs.
One favorite is Hawaii’s playful version of “The 12 Days of Christmas,” reimagined with island-themed lyrics. These musical traditions bring a unique rhythm to the holiday season, blending festive cheer with Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.
Christmas Hula Performances
Hula, the traditional Hawaiian dance, is central to the holiday celebrations and a cherished part of Hawaiian Christmas traditions. Special Christmas hulas tell stories of the season, celebrating the spirit of aloha through graceful movements and heartfelt chants.
Decorate the trucks with holly bells
In Hawaii, Christmas celebrations spill into the streets with brightly decorated cars and trucks parading through neighborhoods. Adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, these vehicles cruise by honking horns and playing cheerful carols, spreading holiday joy to everyone they pass.
With Hawaii’s warm, inviting climate, Christmas is a perfect time to enjoy outdoor festivities. Parades like these can be found on every island, creating a vibrant and uniquely Hawaiian way to celebrate the season.
Christmas events in Hawaii for 2024
Hawaii is the perfect destination if you’re looking to celebrate the festive season with a tropical twist. The islands come alive with unique events and Hawaiian Christmas traditions that blend the holiday spirit with Hawaiian charm. Here’s a guide to some of the best Christmas events in Hawaii for 2024:
Honolulu City Lights
Date: December 7, 2024
One of Hawaii’s most iconic holiday events, Honolulu City Lights, kicks off on December 7, 2024. If you want to understand Hawaiian Christmas traditions better, this month-long celebration is a must-see, featuring the lighting of a towering 50-foot Christmas tree at Honolulu Hale, a whimsical Electric Light Parade, and dazzling holiday displays. Families can enjoy photo opportunities with Shaka Santa and festive rides at the Christmas carnival, making it a highlight for locals and visitors alike.
Waimea’s Annual Christmas Twilight Parade
Date: December 7, 2024
The 64th Annual Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition. Taking place in December, this evening parade features lighted floats, marching bands, and community groups parading down the streets of Waimea. The small-town charm and festive cheer make it a heartwarming holiday event.
Santa Arrive by Outrigger Canoe
Date: Early December (announced closer to the event date)
Forget the traditional sleigh—Santa makes his grand Hawaiian entrance by outrigger canoe! This unique event can be seen at beaches like Waikiki, where Santa paddles in with aloha spirit, delighting children and adults. It’s a festive spectacle that captures the tropical charm of a Hawaiian Christmas.
Christmas at the Hukilau Marketplace
Date: December 16–21, 2024
The Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center transforms into a holiday wonderland with decorations, live entertainment, and Christmas markets. Families can enjoy festive treats, browse for unique gifts, and even meet Santa Claus. It’s a fun-filled event that showcases Hawaiian culture and holiday cheer.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center offers an unforgettable holiday experience with themed activities, cultural performances, and a Hawaiian-style Christmas feast. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking “Christmas Lagoon” canoe ride, where vibrant displays and music bring Christmas stories to life. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the season while learning about Polynesian traditions.
How to Plan Your Hawaiian Christmas Vacation?
Planning a Hawaiian Christmas vacation? Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Pick the Perfect Island: Oahu offers the most Christmas activities, while the Big Island is a budget-friendly option for vacation rentals.
- Book Early: The holiday season is a peak time for Hawaii, so secure your flights and accommodations well in advance for the best deals.
- Pack Smart: While Hawaii is warm, December evenings can be cooler, and rain is possible. Bring a light jacket or sweater for comfort.
- Plan Festive Activities: Explore tree lighting, parades, and hula shows, and check out special holiday events at attractions like the Polynesian Cultural Center.
- Embrace the Outdoors: Enjoy Hawaii’s warm December waters (averaging 77°F) with activities like swimming, snorkeling, or surfing.
- Savor Local Flavors: Treat yourself to traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork, poke, lomi lomi salmon, and steamed rice. A Christmas luau is a must!
- Discover Island Traditions: Dive into Hawaiian culture by exploring influences like Chinese New Year celebrations and Japanese mochi pounding.
- Soak in the Holiday Spirit: From palm trees draped in lights to stunning sunsets on Mauna Kea, embrace Hawaii’s unique blend of festive cheer and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Christmas traditions beautifully blend the spirit of the holidays with the islands’ unique culture and tropical charm. From “Mele Kalikimaka” greetings and Santa arriving by outrigger canoe to palm trees wrapped in lights and festive luaus featuring a kalua pig, the Aloha State offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. These traditions reflect the deep connection between Hawaiian heritage and global Christmas customs, creating joy, aloha, and community celebrations. Whether visiting or living in Hawaii, these cherished practices make Christmas in the islands an unforgettable experience.
FAQ: Hawaiian Christmas traditions
What are Mele Kalikimaka traditions?
The islanders celebrate the season with a decadent pig wrapped in banana tree leaves and buried in an underground oven to roast, which comes out moist and tender. The smokey pig is served with island favorites such as sticky rice, poke, and halo-halo.
What is a traditional Hawaiian greeting during Christmas?
“Mele Kalikimaka” can be translated from Hawaiian to mean “Merry Christmas”.
How does Hawaii say Santa arrives?
However, instead of arriving on the islands on a sleigh pulled by his flying reindeer, Santa arrives in an outrigger canoe, often paddled by elves dressed in aloha (ah- LOWhah) shirts.
What is Santa Claus in Hawaiian?
Hawaiian traditions for Christmas include Kanakaloka (Santa Claus), but often with an island twist.
Do they celebrate Christmas in Hawaii?
Yes, they do! Christmas traditions Hawaii is full of fun events and even some cool Hawaiian holiday customs you’ll want to see during your vacation.
