Celebrate Aloha: Hot List Hawaii’s 2025 Festival Guide
Hawaii's has a rich mix of festivals that celebrate its unique culture and traditions all year round. From lively hula performances to delicious food events, there's something for everyone. Check out this list of must-attend festivals in Hawaii for 2025, complete with all the details you need to plan your visit!
Merrie Monarch Festival
2025 Dates: April 20–26
Location: Hilo, Hawaii
Website: merriemonarch.com
Cost: Varies by event; some activities are free, while others require tickets.
Hot Tip: Arrive early for the free hula performances, as seating fills up quickly.
Waikiki Spam Jam
2025 Dates: April 19 - May 4
Location: Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu
Website: waikikispamjam.com
Cost: Free admission; food and merchandise available for purchase.
Hot Tip: Arrive early to sample a variety of Spam dishes from local chefs and restaurants.
Palm Tree Music Festival
Dates: May 9–10, 2025
Location: Kahuku, Oahu
Website: palmtreefestivalhawaii.com
Cost: Ticket prices vary; refer to the website for details.
Hot Tip: Purchase tickets early, as this festival sold out in its inaugural year.
Aloha Festivals
Dates: September 2025
Location: Statewide, with major events in Honolulu, Hawaii
Website: alohafestivals.com
Cost: Most events are free and open to the public.
Hot Tip: Participate in the Waikiki Hoʻolauleʻa block party for an authentic Hawaiian street celebration.
Obon Festivals
Dates: Held on weekend evenings from June to August 2025 (specific dates vary by location)
Location: Various Buddhist temples across Hawaii
Website: obonhawaii.com
Cost: Free admission; food and cultural items available for purchase.
Hot Tip: Join the traditional Bon dance around the yagura (dance tower) and enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.
Maui Onion Festival
2025 Dates: May 2 & 3
Location: Lahaina, Maui
Website: https://kaanapaliresort.com/25th-annual-maui-onion-festival/
Cost: Information pending; refer to the website for updates.
Hot Tip: Enjoy onion-inspired dishes, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
2025 Dates:
Island of Hawaii Oct 17 - 18 | Maui Oct 24 - 26 | Oahu Oct 30 - Nov 2
Location: Big Island, Maui, Oahu
Website: hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com
Cost: Varies by event; check the website for ticketing information.
Hot Tip: Attend exclusive dinners and seminars featuring renowned chefs from around the world.
Hawaii Yoga Festival
Dates: To be announced
Location: Kalani Oceanside Retreat, Big Island
Website: Kalani.com
Cost: Information pending; check the website for details.
Hot Tip: Immerse yourself in diverse yoga workshops amidst a serene oceanfront setting.
Big Island Chocolate Festival
2025 Dates: April 10 - 12
Location: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Website: bigislandchocolatefestival.com
Cost: Information pending; refer to the website for updates.
Hot Tip: Participate in chocolate-making workshops and savor creations from local chocolatiers.
Hawai'i International Film Festival (HIFF)
Dates: Spring Showcase: April 8–13, 2025; Main Festival: November 2025 (exact dates to be announced)
Location: Honolulu, Oahu, with additional screenings across Hawaii
Website: hiff.org
Cost: Varies by event; check the website for ticketing information.
Hot Tip: Attend the Spring Showcase to experience emerging talent and participate in workshops and panels that celebrate the future of filmmaking.
