Aloha, holiday lovers! Ready to kick off the season with twinkling lights, thumping drums, and pure Hawaiian joy? The Waikiki Holiday Parade 2025 lights up Kalākaua Avenue on Friday, November 28—the ultimate post-Thanksgiving glow-up that blends heartfelt Pearl Harbor remembrance with over-the-top festive flair.
Whether you're a local ohana chasing early Christmas vibes or visitors craving that island magic, this free evening spectacle is your ticket to unforgettable memories. Let's dive into everything you need to march in the magic!
What Exactly Is the Waikiki Holiday Parade?
Also known as the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade, this beloved tradition honors Pearl Harbor survivors and veterans while cranking the holiday spirit to 11. Started in 1998, it's grown into Oahu's dazzling kickoff to the festive season—think mainland high school marching bands, military units, hula dancers, and shimmering performers all rolling down world-famous Kalākaua Avenue.
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Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
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Time: Roads close ~6:30 PM, parade steps off at 7:00 PM, wraps around 9:00 PM
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Route: 1.5 miles from Fort DeRussy Park (near Saratoga Rd) to Queen Kapi‘olani Park, with Waikiki Beach as your backdrop
Parade Highlights That'll Make You Cheer
Expect 2+ hours of non-stop wow moments:
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High school marching bands from across the U.S. in full glittery uniforms
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Pearl Harbor survivors waving from classic convertibles
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Military color guards and precision units
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Local hula halau and keiki dancers spreading aloha
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Torch-lit performers and surprise celebrity guests
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The grand finale: Santa arriving in true island style!
Pro tip: The energy peaks around the Royal Hawaiian Center—that's where the crowds go wild!
Best Viewing Tips for Prime Spots
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Arrive early (5:00–5:30 PM) for curb-side real estate
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Hot spots: Anywhere along Kalākaua between Saratoga Rd and Kapahulu Ave—mid-route near Lewers St gives you bands + beach views
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Bring: Folding chairs (low-back only), light jackets (coastal breeze hits after sunset), water, snacks, and glow sticks for kids
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Avoid: Driving—park at Waikiki Shell or take TheBus/trolley
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Accessibility: Designated areas near Duke Kahanamoku Statue
For real-time updates, check the official site: waikikiholidayparade.com
Family-Friendly Pre-Parade Fun (Because Kids Get Hungry!)
Turn parade night into a full aloha adventure:
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5:00 PM: Grab dinner at Duke's Waikiki or Hula Grill—reserve early!
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Sunset beach walk at Kuhio Beach (just steps from the route)
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Holiday photo ops at the giant banyan tree or Duke statue
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Pre-game at Waikiki Beach Walk—free live music and keiki activities
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Bonus: Stroll the Royal Hawaiian Center for window shopping and people-watching
More island inspiration? Explore Go Hawaii's full event guide
Wave with Whimsical Flair: JAMS World Parade Style Guide
Why blend in when you can burst in? JAMS World's iconic rayon pieces turn parade-goers into walking celebrations—their explosive colors and flowy fabrics dance with every drumbeat!
Parade Poncho Alternative: Layer our breezy Kimono over everything—its celebratory bursts of color amplify the parade's electric joy, making you the star of your own feel-good holiday highlight reel. (Think short kimono robe as your festive cape!)
JAMS World Parade Pairing Guide (Mix & Match Magic!)
For Her:
Women's Midi Dress in wild tropical prints + Pareo as a sarong or scarf + Short Kimono Robe for that extra swirl
For Him:
Men's Rayon Shirt (unbuttoned for maximum breeze) + board shorts + tote for snacks
For Keiki:
Matching family prints—because coordinated aloha is the cutest!
Carry the Vibe: Stuff glow sticks and lei in our classic totce bags—zero fuss, maximum style.
Not sure where to start? Take our Find Your Jams World Flow Personal Style Profile—it'll match you with parade-perfect pieces in seconds!
Small Bucket Tote Bag – JAMS World
Ready to March in the Magic?
The Waikiki Holiday Parade isn't just an event—it's pure aloha in motion. Grab your JAMS World favorites, stake your spot, and let the colors fly!
Shop the entire collection now at jamsworld.com.
See you on Kalākaua—waving, dancing, and dripping in JAMS World joy! 🌺🎉
