By: Nicole Rosania, travel content creator and writer at The Abroad Blog

The lyrics “Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say, on a bright Hawaiian Christmas day…” are famous for a reason! This is how you say Merry Christmas in the Hawaiian language — and aside from having its own Christmas carols, the islands also have their own festive traditions.

Consider spending the holidays in Kona if you’re looking for sunshine, ocean breezes, and festive celebrations like local food, music, and community gatherings that are rooted in Hawaiian culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to the Big Island over Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s, Kona delivers a unique island take on the holidays. This blog post is going to cover the main parades, family-friendly events, and historical background information.

How Holidays Are Celebrated In Hawaii

Holidays in Hawaii reflect a rich mix of Native Hawaiian traditions, Christian influences, and multicultural customs brought to the islands over generations. 

In Kona, holiday celebrations emphasize ohana (family), togetherness, and gratitude. Music, storytelling, hula, and shared meals are central to the season, often taking place outdoors thanks to Hawaii’s mild winter weather.

Visiting Kona During The Holidays: What To Know

The holiday season is one of the busiest times to visit the Big Island, so booking accommodations and rental cars early is highly recommended. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere remains welcoming and relaxed, with many holiday events free and open to the public.

Winter weather in Kona is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor celebrations, beach days, and exploring local events. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs and community spaces, especially during cultural and family-oriented celebrations.

Thanksgiving In Kona, Hawaii

Thanksgiving in Kona offers a warm-weather twist on the classic holiday. While turkey and stuffing remain staples, many local families incorporate Hawaiian flavors and ingredients into their meals. It’s common to see potluck-style gatherings where everyone contributes a dish, reinforcing the sense of community that defines holidays in Hawaii.

Several restaurants and resorts also offer Thanksgiving menus, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the holiday without the stress of cooking.

Christmas In Kona, Hawaii

Christmas in Kona is one of the most popular times of year to visit the Big Island. While the weather may feel more like summer, the holiday spirit is unmistakable.

Homes, shops, and resorts are decorated with island-inspired lights and décor, and Hawaiian-style Christmas music fills the air. Churches across Kona host candlelight services and Christmas Eve celebrations, while families gather for meals that often blend traditional holiday dishes with local favorites like kalua pork, poi, lomi salmon, and haupia.

New Year’s In Kona

New Year’s Eve in Kona, Hawaii is lively, family-oriented, and rooted in tradition. Fireworks are a major part of the celebration, lighting up the sky across neighborhoods throughout the evening. While professional fireworks displays may be limited, local celebrations create a vibrant atmosphere you can experience from beaches, hillsides, and town centers.

Many families welcome the New Year with home-cooked meals, gatherings, and time spent reflecting on the year ahead. The emphasis is on togetherness, renewal, and starting fresh — Hawaiian values that align naturally with the spirit of the holiday.

Annual Holiday Events & Festivals In Kona

Kona Christmas Parade

The Kona Christmas Parade is one of the most anticipated holiday events on the Big Island. Held in downtown Kailua-Kona, the parade features colorful floats, marching bands, local organizations, and festive performances. It’s a family-friendly event that brings together residents and visitors alike to celebrate the season.

This Christmas Parade usually takes place in mid-December, around 12/13.

Festival Of Lights In Kailua-Kona

The Festival of Lights marks the official kickoff to the holiday season in Kona. This beloved annual event includes a tree-lighting ceremony, live music, hula performances, and activities for children. Local vendors and food stands add to the festive atmosphere, making it a must-see holiday celebration in Kona, Hawaii.

This event usually takes place around the first weekend of December, around 12/6. There is also a lighted boat parade that takes place in early December each year as well!

Holiday Craft Fairs + Markets

Throughout the holiday season, Kona hosts a variety of holiday craft fairs and markets. These events showcase local artisans selling handmade gifts, ornaments, artwork, and Hawaiian crafts. They’re perfect for finding unique souvenirs while supporting small businesses on the Big Island.

These markets begin in early December and take place every weekend.

Holiday Concerts + Hula Performances

Seasonal concerts and hula performances take place across Kona during the holidays, often hosted by churches, cultural centers, and resorts. These performances highlight traditional Hawaiian music and dance, offering visitors a deeper connection to local culture during the festive season.

They typically begin in early December.

Holiday celebrations in Kona, Hawaii offer something truly special — a season filled with warmth, culture, and connection. From Christmas parades and festivals of lights to intimate family traditions and island-inspired meals, the holidays in Kona feel personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re escaping the cold or looking to experience Hawaiian holiday traditions firsthand, Kona provides a festive yet peaceful setting to celebrate the season on the Big Island.

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