Honolulu to Kick Off Holiday Season with Free Concert and City Lights Celebration
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A free holiday concert featuring the Royal Hawaiian Band and a lineup of acclaimed local artists will launch Honolulu’s festive season on Friday, Nov. 28, followed by the official start of the 2025 Honolulu City Lights celebration the next evening. The events promise a vibrant start to the holidays for residents and visitors alike.
A Night of Music and Merriment
The City and County of Honolulu will present “Kalikimaka Ho‘omau (It’s Christmas Every Day),” a two-hour concert at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with the performance beginning at 7 p.m. Seating will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The concert will showcase a diverse range of talent, including 21-time award winner Henry Kapono, two-time Grammy nominee Raiatea Helm, and the Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus. Additional performers include Starr Kalahiki and Kanani Oliveira, alongside artists identified as Absrain ‘dimble, mix, sugar, and The Mael.
“Music has a way of bringing people together, and there is something truly special about the way our community celebrates the holidays,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi in a statement. “This free concert is a gift to our residents and families — an invitation to come together, enjoy world-class local talent, and feel the spirit of the season in our city.”
Honolulu City Lights to Illuminate the Night
The festivities continue on Saturday, Nov. 29, with the official launch of Honolulu City Lights. The annual celebration will begin with the traditional tree-lighting ceremony at Honolulu Hale, followed by the Public Workers’ Electric Light Parade down King Street.
To enhance the holiday atmosphere, the City and County of Honolulu will illuminate Thomas Square Park at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, providing concertgoers with an opportunity to enjoy the holiday lights before or after the performance. Holiday lights will also be on display throughout the city.
Accessibility and Viewing Options
Attendees are encouraged to utilize rideshare applications, carpool, or take public transportation, as parking is expected to be limited.
For those unable to attend in person, the concert will be livestreamed on HawaiiNewsNow.com and broadcast on KHNL.
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The combination of musical performances and dazzling light displays promises to usher in a joyous holiday season for the city of Honolulu.
