Expect to hear classic Christmas carols played on a ukulele.
In Hawaii, children don't stare at the fireplace waiting for Santa to climb down the chimney. They look out to the beach to see him arrive on his red canoe, being pulled by dolphins. It safe to say Christmas is different in Hawaii. But if you're looking for some sun and sand this Christmas, without leaving behind the traditions that make the holiday so special, then Hawaii is the place to be. Does this Spark an idea?
Christmas in Hawaii
If they don't use the Island Norfolk Pine to set up their Christmas trees, Hawaiians import fir trees from the mainland. You'll see Santa and his elves, eat Christmas dinner and be dazzled by multicolored lights; though this comes with a Hawaiian twist. Santa and his elves are often dressed in aloha shirts and the lights are usually attached to a local's vehicle, which parades through the streets. As for the dinner, forget about roaring fires and woolly sweaters. Wearing leis and Santa Claus hats, dinner is eaten outdoors in a community luau. Expect to see kalua roast pig, sushi, and lumpia with your turkey.
Fun and Entertainment
You will hear all of your favorite carols in Hawaii, such as "Silent Night." The songs are sung by choirs and bands and accompanied by ukuleles. Don't be surprised to hear a few new Christmas songs, either, such as "Here Comes Santa in a Red Canoe." Head down to the beach for a picnic or go for a swim and surf. Expect to see lots of Christmas concerts, Christmas light displays and parades, as well as luaus.
Honolulu City Lights
While there are celebrations all around Hawaii during this festive time, no Christmas trip to the islands would be complete without visiting Oahu to see the Honolulu City Lights. Stand in awe of a 50-foot Christmas tree decorated in Hawaiian ornaments, as well as a 21-foot Santa Claus and is equally large wife, Tutu Mele. It all starts with an electric light parade before moving on to Christmas-themed entertainment such as a festive concert with Hawaiian musicians.
History
Hawaiian's do not hold back at Christmas time, but before 1820, the year that missionaries arrived in Hawaii from New England, they had not even heard of it. Before this, they had Makahiki at this time of year, a four-month celebration with games and feasts. War was banned during Makahiki.
Tags: City Lights, Honolulu City, Honolulu City Lights, Santa Claus, Santa elves, with Hawaiian