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The Top 5 Parades in Honolulu

a group of people wearing costumes
Credit to Eimy’s Hawaii Happy life on YouTube

Hawaii certainly knows how to put on a show; the islands have an impressive list of celebrations taking place throughout the year. Visitors from all over the world have the opportunity to gain insight into the islands, its people and local life by attending one of the many events held throughout the year. Here is a list of the top five must-see parades you should try and see during your Hawaiian vacation.

Number Five

The Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade takes place each year on December 7th in remembrance of the lives lost on December 7th, 1941 during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade is a commemorative event held during December each year. This parade travels from Fort Derussy Park and then ends at the Waikiki Shell along Kalakaua Avenue. It features many marching bands and other performances, certainly to the enjoyment of the spectators.

Number 4

The Chinese Lunar New Year parade is a celebration of Chinese culture and also celebration of the new year. It takes place during the celebration of the Lunar New Year, which falls between January 21 and February 20. This even takes place in Honolulu’s historic Chinatown. Surprisingly, it is not too far from Waikiki. The parade route travels from the Hawaii State Capitol to the intersection of Hotel Street and River Street.

Number 3

The Honolulu Pride Parade is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Honolulu. This event is held in Waikiki during October. The parade features colorful floats, balloons, and also music. The parade route begins at Magic Island, which is by the Ala Moana Center, then travels down Kalakaua Avenue, and ends at Kapiolani Park at the end of Waikiki Beach. 

Number 2

The King Kamehameha Floral Parade celebrates the legacy of King Kamehameha the First. It is held each year around the state holiday of Kamehameha Day. This parade is unlike any other. You can see colorful floats, flowers, and also horseback riders during this event. The parade route begins at Iolani Palace and then finishes at Kapiolani park.

Number 1

The Honolulu Festival Grande Parade is the number one must-see parade in Honolulu! This event celebrates the harmony, cultural diversity, international cooperation, and also understanding between Hawaii and the nations of the Pacific Rim. It is held each year during March in Waikiki. The parade route begins at Fort Derussy Park and then ends at Kapiolani Park.

Come enjoy the undeniably wonderful festivities of the events held throughout the year in Honolulu!

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