Aloha, Honolulu! As we step into May, our city is buzzing with a variety of events that celebrate our rich culture and community spirit. Here’s a roundup of happenings from May 1 to May 8:
Friday, May 1: Lei Day Celebrations
98th Annual Lei Day Celebration
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Kapi‘olani Regional Park
Details: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the lei, a symbol of aloha, at this annual event featuring lei-making demonstrations, live music, and hula performances. A perfect way to honor Hawaiian traditions. More info
Hawaiian Airlines May Day 2026 presented by Bishop Museum
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Bishop Museum
Details: Celebrate Lei Day with performances by renowned artists Kealiʻi Reichel and Robert Uluwehi Cazimero. Enjoy an evening of mele and hula in the museum’s beautiful setting. More info
Beneath Our Hawaiian Skies: May Day is Lei Day in Waikīkī
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM)
Location: Tom Moffatt Waikīkī Shell
Details: Join this special May Day concert featuring beloved artists and hālau, celebrating Hawaiian culture with mele, hula, and the spirit of aloha. More info
Saturday, May 2
Rosé Soirée
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (VIP access at 6:00 PM)
Location: Inspiration Hawai‘i Museum, 900 Richards St., Downtown
Details: Dress to impress at this ‘The Devil Wears Prada’-themed gala, featuring unlimited rosé and light bites. A fashionable evening not to be missed. More info
Cirque du Soleil: Auana
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
Details: Experience the mesmerizing performances of Cirque du Soleil in their show ‘Auana’. A blend of acrobatics and storytelling set against the backdrop of Waikīkī. More info
San Holo (18+ Event)
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: The Republik
Details: Electronic music fans can enjoy a night with San Holo, known for his unique blend of future bass and electronic beats. More info
Sunday, May 3
HOT – Kamalehua: The Sheltering Tree
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall
Details: Enjoy this operatic performance that delves into Hawaiian stories and traditions, presented by Hawaii Opera Theatre. More info
Monday, May 4
Local Comedy Showcase
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Blue Note Hawaii
Details: Start your week with laughter at this showcase featuring some of Honolulu’s best local comedians. More info
Thursday, May 7
Masood Boomgaard
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Blue Note Hawaii
Details: South African comedian Masood Boomgaard brings his unique humor to Honolulu for a night of laughs. More info
Friday, May 8
Josh Tatofi
Time: 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM
Location: Blue Note Hawaii
Details: Enjoy the soulful sounds of local artist Josh Tatofi in two performances this evening. More info
Whether you’re looking to celebrate Hawaiian culture, enjoy live music, or simply have a good time, there’s something for everyone in Honolulu this week. Enjoy the events, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us!
Mahalo,
Liam Nakamura