Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (Waikiki Holiday Parade)
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Waikiki Holiday Parade

The parade honors Pearl Harbor survivors and veterans with local Hawaiian bands, mainland marching bands, military units, and dignitaries marching along Waikiki Beach. Spectators line torch-lit Kalakaua Avenue as the procession travels from Fort DeRussy Park to Queen Kapiolani Park. The route is framed by Waikiki's twinkling hotels and restaurants on one side and palm trees and ocean views on the other.

Fri, Nov 27, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Neighborhood

Waikiki

Location

Kalakaua Avenue · Honolulu, HI Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Parade fans and those interested in honoring pearl harbor survivors and veterans

Vibe

Commemorative and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Choose a viewing spot along Kalakaua Avenue between Fort DeRussy Park and Queen Kapiolani Park to see the procession pass.
  • Arrive early to find a place along the route, as the parade draws thousands of spectators, residents, and visitors.
  • Consider watching from one stretch rather than walking the full route; the parade itself travels approximately 1.5 miles.
  • Bring a camera for the torch-lit procession and Waikiki Beach scenery, including palms, white sand, and the open-ocean backdrop.

Links & Contact

Run by Gateway Music Festivals & Tours

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the parade commemorate?

It marks the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, honoring survivors and veterans in memory of December 7, 1941.

Who marches in the parade?

Local Hawaiian bands, marching bands from the mainland, Pearl Harbor survivors, service bands, military units, local officials, dignitaries and entertainers.

Which way does the route run?

The parade steps off from Fort DeRussy Park and travels about 1.5 miles along torch-lit Kalakaua Avenue to Queen Kapiolani Park, with hotels on one side and the beach on the other.

Is it a competition?

No. It's a non-competitive parade.

How can a school band take part?

Gateway Music Festivals & Tours is the parade's exclusive tour operator and managing company. Bands can reach them through the Join the Parade and Performance Opportunities pages.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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