Honolulu is not just a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and nature; it’s also a hub of lively cultural celebrations. As you plan your getaway to Hawaii in 2024, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture by attending some of the major parades that happen on the streets of Honolulu throughout the year. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the parades’ schedule for 2024, where you can experience the rich traditions and celebrations that make Honolulu a unique destination. Get ready to mark your calendar and join the festivities that define the spirit of this enchanting city!
Parades in January
In January you can experience the Chinese New Year Parade which is scheduled on January 27-28. There will also be Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade on January 15, 2024. The parade begins at Magic Island with the formation of organizations at 7:30 a.m., then moves out at 9:00 a.m., traveling on Kalakaua Avenue through Waikiki to Kapiolani Park.
Parades in February
Night in Chinatown Festival & Parade will occur on February 3, 2024.
The annual Lunar New Year parade in Honolulu Chinatown is the most popular CNY event in Hawaii. The parade starts at 4:30 pm at the Hawaii State Capitol lawn. The procession then moves along Hotel Street and along Beretania Street, ending at the historical A’ala Park. The colorful parade is followed by the Night in Chinatown Festival at Beretania Street with plenty of family-friendly activities. The festival also features cultural performances, delicious foods, lion dances, and more.
Parades in March
One of the most exciting Parades in Honolulu is the Grand Parade which will take place on March 10, from 4:00 pm till 8:00 pm at Kalakaua Avenue between Saratoga Road and Kapahulu Avenue. The Honolulu Festival Grand Parade features performers, lively music, marching bands, spectacular parade floats and cultural demonstrations that are paraded along Kalākaua Avenue through the heart of Waikiki.
Parades in April
As of the writing of this article, there are no official parades on the May schedule for April 2024
Parades in May
There are no Parades scheduled in May 2024. However, you can participate in the 16th annual Hibiscus Half Marathon, 15K and 5 miles. The course starts and ends at Kapiolani Park at the Diamond Head end of Waikiki.
Parades in June
On June 7th – 9th, 2024 there will be 42nd Annual Pan-Pacific Festival in Honolulu.
During this block party parade, you will see great performances including hula, live demonstrations, lots of food booths, and live entertainment.
Parades in July
4th of July Freedom Fest is Hawaii’s largest Independence Day party, which is held at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam near Honolulu. The festival which runs from 3 to 9:30 pm, features a live music concert, fun activities for the whole family, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Parades in August
As of the writing of this article, there are no parades scheduled for August in the year 2024.
Parades in September
As of the writing of this article, there are no parades scheduled for the month of September in the year 2024.
Parades in October
2024 Honolulu Pride will take place on Saturday, October 19 and everyone is welcome! The Parade, through the heart of Waikīkī, is free to enter and open to all. The festival, following the Parade, will feature national and local entertainers, craft and merchandise vendors, a resource fair, ‘ohana zone, delicious food and beverages, and lots of MVPFAFF/LGBGTQIA+ aloha.
Parades in November
The Waikiki Holiday Parade commemorates Pearl Harbor by honoring survivors and veterans in memory of the attacks from December 7, 1941. Local Hawaiian bands, marching bands from the mainland, military units, local officials and dignitaries march down torch-lit Kalakaua Avenue along Waikiki Beach. It is held annually the Friday following Thanksgiving Day and hosts thousands of spectators, residents and visitors alike. Bands typically tour the island of Oahu in addition to performing in the parade. Other sites include Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center and Waikiki Beach.
Parades in December
On December 2nd you can enjoy the Honolulu City Lights. The fun begins at 4 p.m. with the City Lights Block Party on Punchbowl Street followed by the Public Workersʻ Electric Light Parade starting at 6 p.m. from Aala Park on S. King Street to Honolulu Hale, and the Tree Lighting Ceremony at approximately 6:30 p.m. There’s also the Wreath Contest exhibition and Skygate Concert from 7 p.m. and photos with Santa starting at 7:30 p.m. Lights on the 50-foot holiday tree and outdoor decorations will stay lit from 6 p.m. to dawn, Dec. 2-29.
