Waikiki Events & Festivals

Auana by Cirque du Soleil: Waikiki’s Must-See Show in 2025

After the sun sets in Hawaii Nei, what is there to do? You’ve spent all day at the beach, had your fill of plate lunches, and checked out the local markets, but what else does Waikiki offer?! We’ve got great news because Cirque du Soleil premiered in Hawaii on December 17, 2024.  You can experience the wonder of Cirque du Soleil in the heart of Waikiki! Infuse a little magic into your Waikiki evening with Hawaii’s first Cirque du Soleil resident show. ‘Auana is an enchanting journey where the spirit of Hawaii comes alive through the performances of acrobatics, live music, juggling, comedy, and artistry. This breathtaking tribute to Hawaiian culture offers a night of exhilarating acrobatics, laughter, hula, and music in the heart of Waikiki. In this First Cabin Hawaii International edition, we’re jumping into Waikiki’s Cirque du Soleil.  Keep reading to learn about what you can expect, how to buy tickets, and how to prepare for a night full of music and entertainment! What is Cirque du Soleil? Just in case you’re asking what Cirque du Soleil is?! We’re here with a short answer for you! Cirque du Soleil is an entertainment group and a world leader in […]

What’s Happening in Waikiki? Your Month-by-Month Events Guide

Attending an event while visiting Waikiki can be a great way to get more out of your vacation, providing the chance to mingle with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture. Honolulu’s vibrant Waikiki district is not only renowned for its stunning beauty, including those pristine white sandy beaches and swaying palms, but also for its dynamic mix of events. What to Expect When it Comes to Waikiki Events Throughout the year, Waikiki hosts many different types of festivals and events that celebrate Hawaiian traditions, music, and dance. Luaus on the beaches, live performances, culinary events, and art exhibitions are just a few of the many offerings. Of course, there are special seasonal celebrations that often include fireworks, such as the Fourth of July and  New Year’s Eve. You’ll find a wealth of happenings in this vibrant community and its cultural heritage throughout the year – you might even want to plan your next trip around one of them.  We’ve detailed the top annual events by season to help you plan the ultimate vacation in Waikiki, starting with spring, the season of renewal! Annual Events in Waikiki You Shouldn’t Miss Spring Events in Waikiki (March – May) The […]

New Year in Waikiki: What to Do, Where to Go & How to Make It Unforgettable

There are many reasons to visit Waikiki, no matter what the season, from the beautiful beaches and opportunities for outdoor adventure to the mouthwatering cuisine and the laid-back Aloha attitude. But when it comes to New Year’s Eve, there may be no better place on Earth to be. Ringing in any year with sand between your toes is hard to beat. What to Expect from New Year’s Eve in Waikiki Your New Year’s Eve spent in paradise can include everything from sunbathing and watersports to indulgent feasts and marveling at the spectacular fireworks show. The annual fireworks display paints the night sky above Waikiki Beach in Honolulu with colorful bursts in various shapes like palm trees, fans, and rings, wowing audiences every time. Nearly two thousand fireworks are set off from a barge just offshore at the stroke of midnight during a 10-minute spectacle that culminates with “Auld Lang Syne.” Of course, as Waikiki is such an amazing place to be, celebration or not, expect it to be busy. After all, many other people dream of being in Hawaii for New Year’s Eve. That means you’ll want to book any dinner reservations, cruises, and other activities well ahead. When it […]

What to Do in Kailua for a Perfect Escape from Waikiki

Are you interested in seeing the world’s most beautiful beaches?! We thought so! In this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post guide, we’re helping you curate the perfect escape to Kailua – beaches and beyond. The Kailua coastline is on the island’s windward side where the weather is prone to rain, wind, and clouds. However, rain or shine, Kailua is worth the day trip from Waikiki! Let’s dive into the details and plan the perfect day trip to Kailua! Traveling to Kailua Town from Waikiki Beach Kailua is located on the east side of O’ahu, 12 miles from Waikiki. There are two ways to get there, both offer stunning views, so consider going one way and returning the other. The direct route is over the Pali Highway, approximately 30 minutes from Waikiki, boasting an impressive lookout point. South of Waikiki is the longer, arguably more scenic drive, along the Kalanianaole Highway. Drive along the coast and stop at various vistas including the Halona Blowhole Lookout and the Makapu’u Lighthouse. While both drives are beautiful, beware of commuting during traffic hours. Fun in the Sun: Exploring Kailua’s Coastline Suntan, swim, and snorkel at two of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you […]

What to Do on the North Shore after Exploring Waikiki

Located about an hour from Waikiki is the famous North Shore with stunning beaches, epic surfing, and quaint beach towns. There’s a little something for every style of traveler from adrenaline-pumping activities to lazy beach days and everything in between. For a full-day adventure, take the long way, and drive along the island’s east side for stunning views with great pitstops. In this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post post, we share the best things to do on O’ahu’s North Shore. A Relaxing Day Trip to the North Shore The North Shore offers expansive stretches of sandy beaches from the remote shores of Mokuleia to the world-famous Sunset and Pipeline. Haleiwa Beach Park offers calmer waters and an easily accessible ocean for kayaking, surfing, or SUP adventures. It’s a nice contrast to busy Waikiki. Turtle Bay Resort 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku The upgraded resort has an impressive lobby and oceanside bars, perfect for watching the sunset with a tropical cocktail. Enjoy the protected lagoon, golf courses, horseback riding, canoeing, biking, and snorkeling tours. Food Trucks Spend your day between beaches and food trucks. The North Shore is dotted with tasty food truck options from refreshing smoothies at the Sunrise Shack to […]

Best Lūʻau’s Near Waikiki for an Authentic Experience

Are you ready to experience a Hawaiian lūʻau’? This traditional Hawaiian gathering includes entertaining live performances and an abundance of food! Beyond dinner and a show, it’s also an opportunity to learn about Hawaiian culture and history. It’s a perfect experience for all ages, and many options exist in and around Waikiki Beach. Come ready to eat! The feast typically includes local favorites like roasted pork, pounded poi, Lomi salmon, rice, mac salad, and more! Live music and performances range from hula shows and fire dancing to lei-making and cultural activities. In this First Cabin Hawaii post, we share the best authentic lūʻaus near Waikiki. Keep reading to learn about the various venues and packages. Be sure to check out the websites directly, because there are often discounted rates and deals, especially when reserving in advance. Here’s to finding the perfect lūʻau for you! The Best Lūʻau’s Near Waikiki If you’re staying in Waikiki and looking for a lūʻau, there are several nearby! Yes, you can catch free hula performances at the International Market Place, Ala Moana Mall, and adjacent to the famous Duke Kahanamoku Statue. But, if you’re looking for the full lūʻau experience, here is where you can […]

Best Waikiki Beach Events: Yearly, Monthly & Weekly Highlights

Waikiki Beach offers a wide range of exciting events throughout the year, from annual festivals to weekly and monthly gatherings that provide something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to lively music and food festivals, local art displays, or unique stargazing activities, there’s always something going on. These events highlight the island’s rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty, for all who visit. With so much to enjoy, these activities are just a few of the things that make Waikiki a must-visit destination no matter the season. Top Annual Events at Waikiki Beach Waikiki Beach hosts some of the most anticipated annual events in Hawaii, bringing people together to celebrate the island’s unique culture. These yearly festivities, ranging from music and food festivals to ocean sports competitions, make Waikiki a highly sought-after destination year-round. Waikiki Hoolaulea The Waikiki Hoolaulea is a vibrant, annual block party held in September as part of the Aloha Festival, celebrating Hawaiian music, food, and culture. The event takes over Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki, with live performances by local musicians, hula dancers, and a variety of traditional Hawaiian and island-inspired food booths. It’s a lively celebration that brings both locals and visitors together to enjoy the spirit of […]

Best Hula Shows in Waikiki: Free & Paid Experiences

In Hawaii, hula is a powerful form of storytelling that preserves the deep history and traditions of the Hawaiians through dance. Waikiki offers many hula shows, providing visitors with a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Hawaii firsthand. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to the islands, each show has something meaningful to offer. From ancient traditions to modern interpretations, hula connects the dancers with their audience through the stories they share. Let’s explore some of the most popular free and paid hula shows in Waikiki. Free Hula Shows in Waikiki Waikiki offers several free hula shows, giving visitors a chance to experience Hawaiian culture through dance and music. Here are a some of the best admission-free performances that celebrate the beauty and spirit of the islands: Kuhio Beach Hula Show The Kuhio Beach Hula Show provides a true taste of Hawaiian culture right on the shores of Waikiki. This outdoor event takes place on Saturdays and the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month, featuring performances by Hawaii’s top Hula dancers. The show kicks off with the traditional blowing of the conch shell, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of hula and live music. […]

Honolulu Marathon Guide: From Registration and the Course to Must-Know Waikiki Events

Typically held annually on the second Sunday of December, the Honolulu Marathon follows a picturesque route that winds through some of the most beautiful landscapes on Oahu. Runners come from across the globe to take part in this bucket-list event not only to challenge themselves, but to enjoy magnificent scenery including Waikiki Beach and the sparkling Pacific. Prepare for an unforgettable journey while taking on the challenging 26.2 miles by using our guide to the Honolulu Marathon, with plenty of local insight to ensure the most successful experience. Honolulu Marathon – A Must-Run Event in Waikiki The Honolulu Marathon is the fourth largest marathon in the U.S. after only New York, Chicago, and Boston. It’s especially popular among first-time marathon runners because there’s no qualifying time, no lottery, and no time limit to finish. Plus, runners can also opt to join shorter distances like the half-marathon, 10K, or 5K, making the event accessible to all levels. The festive vibe is amplified by community support, live music, and the spirit of Aloha. Of course, the experience is made even more special by the course itself — a scenic journey through Waikiki and beyond. Course Overview: Scenic Routes Through Waikiki & Beyond […]

Waikiki Fall Festival 2025: A Complete Guide to the Best Events and Activities

There’s always something fun going on in Waikiki. While the Waikiki Fall Festival is one of our favorites, this Honolulu neighborhood is action-packed with things to do. There’s a wealth of shopping and dining experiences, beautiful beaches with world-class surf breaks, live concerts, and a wide range of exciting events that are hosted throughout the year. Working with many visitors here in Waikiki, we frequently provide recommendations to our guests. One of those tips includes planning their trip around a Waikiki festival. It’s a great way to experience authentic Hawaii like a local. You can immerse yourself in the unique customs, traditions, art, music, and food for a deeper understanding you wouldn’t get otherwise. Mingle with area residents and enjoy the chance to sample all those delicious Hawaiian dishes too! What is the Waikiki Fall Festival? Autumn brings one of our favorite festivals: the Waikiki Fall Festival. Taking place since 2018, it’s held on Kalakaua Avenue between Seaside and Uluniu Avenues. This stretch will be closed to vehicle traffic, providing a more pleasant environment for enjoying the many festivities. We’ve put this guide together to help you make the most of this fun festival. Discover what it is and what […]