Honolulu City Lights switch on Saturday
3 minute readPublished: Friday, November 28, 2025 at 10:05 am
Honolulu City Lights Kicks Off Holiday Season with Festive Events
Honolulu is set to illuminate the holiday season with the 41st annual Honolulu City Lights celebration, beginning this Saturday. The festivities will officially launch with the lighting of a 55-foot Christmas tree in front of Honolulu Hale, the city's municipal building. Mayor Rick Blangiardi will initiate the lighting at 6:30 p.m., coinciding with the electric light parade.
This year's celebration, themed "Navigating by the Stars," will extend beyond Honolulu Hale to include Thomas Square, marking a significant expansion since the event's inception in 1985. Thomas Square will light up simultaneously with Honolulu Hale, offering an immersive display called "Show Aloha Land," featuring illuminated trees, light tunnels, and keiki train rides.
Opening night will feature a block party on Punchbowl Street from 4-10 p.m. The Public Workers Electric Light Parade will depart from Aala Park, traveling down South King Street before the tree lighting ceremony. Additional activities include free photos with Santa, a Skygate Concert, the opening of the City and County of Honolulu Employee Christmas Tree Exhibition, and the Wreath Contest Exhibition.
The opening night events will be televised live. Throughout December, Honolulu Hale will host a series of entertainment events, including performances by Celtic Pipes & Drums, Ka Pa Hula O Ka Lei Hiwa, and the Royal Hawaiian Band. Free movie nights featuring "Lilo & Stitch" and other holiday-themed events are also scheduled.
The holiday displays at Honolulu Hale and Thomas Square will remain open through Christmas Day. The City and County of Honolulu Employee Christmas Tree Exhibition will close on December 26, and the outdoor displays will be taken down on December 29. For detailed information on street closures, event updates, and schedules, the public is encouraged to visit the official websites.
BNN's Perspective:
The expansion of Honolulu City Lights to include Thomas Square is a welcome development, offering more opportunities for community engagement and spreading holiday cheer. The variety of events planned, from concerts to movie nights, ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy. While the event's popularity is undeniable, it's important for the city to manage the increased traffic and potential congestion effectively to ensure a positive experience for all attendees.
Keywords: Honolulu City Lights, Christmas tree lighting, electric light parade, Thomas Square, Show Aloha Land, holiday events, Mayor Rick Blangiardi, opening night, entertainment, free events, Christmas, holiday season, Honolulu Hale, family-friendly, community event.