Insider's Guide to This Year’s Honolulu City Lights

The festive season in Honolulu is set to dazzle once again with the 39th Annual Honolulu City Lights!

A beacon of holiday spirit, Honolulu Hale transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, holiday décor, and, of course, Shaka Santa and Tūtū Mele. This event isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a community gathering that offers locals and visitors alike a chance to take in some holiday cheer, all for free!

What to Expect

This year's Honolulu City Lights, presented by the City and County of Honolulu and Friends of Honolulu City Lights, promises an array of attractions. From the magnificent 50-foot Christmas tree to the larger-than-life holiday figures and a wreath exhibit, there's something to captivate everyone.

Key Dates and Locations

Mark your calendars: The festivities light up at the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center grounds, located at 650 S. King St. in Honolulu, from December 2, 2023 through December, 29, 2023. The grand opening Saturday, December 2 will include the Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. at Honolulu Hale, located at 530 S. King St., followed by the Public Workers Electric Light Parade at 6:30 p.m.

Can't-Miss Highlights

• Opening Night, Saturday, December 2: The celebration begins at 4 p.m., and will feature food booths, tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., parade at 6:30 p.m., and free photos with Santa from 7:30 to 9 p.m. 
• Food Booths: Delight your taste buds with a variety of offerings from local vendors like Aloha Made Bites, Bada’s BBQ, Corn Onoz Hawai‘i, and many more. 
• Special Events: Don't miss the Wreath Contest Exhibition and the City Department Tree Exhibition, along with scheduled visits to Santa’s Village.

Tips for the Best Experience

To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during the day. Remember, it might be sweater weather in Honolulu, so bring a light jacket just in case. Restrooms are available at Honolulu Hale and a mobile restroom on opening night. You can also support this spectacular event by purchasing an official Holiday City Lights ornament, available online and at select locations—proceeds help to keep this event free. For more information, visit honolulucitylights.org or follow @friendshonolulucitylights.

Real Estate Near Downtown Honolulu

The dynamic, urban neighborhoods of Downtown Honolulu and nearby Kaka'ako are attractive to both homebuyers and real estate investors. Below, is a snapshot of recent market activity in these popular and centrally located areas.

Downtown Honolulu Real Estate Trends

In October 2023, the median price of Downtown condos decreased by 2%, settling at $400,000. Condos were on the market for a median of 26 days, as supply increased by 39% to 3.1 Months of Remaining Inventory. There were 67 condos for sale in Downtown last month. Browse Downtown condos for sale.

Kaka'ako Real Estate Insights

The Kaka'ako market, which also includes Ala Moana properties, saw 31% fewer sales, with 681 condos sold, and a 9% drop in median price to $710,000. Kaka'ako condos were listed for a median of 30 days before entering into escrow. There were 306 pre-owned condos for sale in the Kaka'ako area at the end of October. Browse Kaka'ako condos for sale.

For look at how all Oahu markets performed in October 2023, see our recent market update.

Honolulu City Lights not only illuminates this festive season on Oahu, but it beautifully compliments the island's unique Hawaiian culture and holiday spirit. As the lights sparkle against the backdrop of the Honolulu skyline, we're reminded of the Aloha Spirit that pervades the islands, especially during the holidays.

If you're drawn to the warm, communal atmosphere of Hawaii and its vibrant real estate opportunities, our Locations Neighborhood Experts are ready to guide you in your next move! Enjoy the many special Hawaiian holiday traditions, and if you'd like to explore Oahu's exciting property market, contact us for personalized insights and service!