Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
As the sun rises over the vibrant landscapes of Oahu to welcome the new year, January 2025 promises a month filled with cultural festivities, world-class sports events, and engaging community celebrations. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu combines locals and visitors in a seamless blend of modern charm and rich traditions. Whether you're an adventure seeker looking to witness massive surf waves on the North Shore or a culture enthusiast wanting to immerse yourself in the island's unique heritage, January offers something for everyone.
The first month of the year is particularly special as it aligns with Hawaii's peak humpback whale migration season, thrilling golfers at the prestigious Sony Open and captivating art lovers during Honolulu's creative festivals. Every event on the calendar provides an opportunity to experience the aloha spirit firsthand through colorful parades, culinary delights, and music that resonates with the soul. Let's dive into Oahu’s must-see events and festivals this January, each offering unforgettable memories.
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
Held at Waimea Bay on Oahu's legendary North Shore, The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is one of the most iconic surfing competitions in the world. This event honors Eddie Aikau, a celebrated lifeguard and surfer who embodied bravery and aloha. Unlike regular competitions, The Eddie only runs when wave heights reach a jaw-dropping minimum of 20 feet on the Hawaiian scale (40 feet face value), making it a rare and highly anticipated spectacle.
Surfers from around the globe are invited to participate, showcasing their skill and fearlessness as they ride monstrous waves. Thousands of spectators flock to the bay to witness the dramatic performances, creating a festival-like atmosphere with food trucks, live music, and storytelling sessions about Eddie's legacy. Even if the event doesn't run due to conditions, the spirit of Eddie lives on, drawing visitors to appreciate the raw power of the ocean and the unmatched culture of big-wave surfing.
Where: Waimea Bay, North Shore, Oahu
When: December 14, 2024 through March 13, 2025
More Info: Eddie Aikau Big Wave
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade & Unity Rally
Oahu pays tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a vibrant parade through Waikiki followed by a Unity Rally at Kapiʻolani Park. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and representatives from various community organizations, all united under equality, justice, and peace themes.
The Unity Rally at the park is lively, featuring local musicians, cultural performances, and food vendors serving dishes from Hawaii’s diverse ethnic communities. Educational exhibits and speeches reflect Dr. King’s message and its relevance to contemporary issues. This event honors a significant historical figure and celebrates the cultural and social diversity that defines Oahu.
Where: Along Kalakaua Avenue, ending at Kapiolani Park
When: January 20th
More Info: MLK Parade
Chinatown Festival & Parade
As part of Honolulu's Lunar New Year celebrations, the historic Chinatown district transforms into a bustling hub of festivities during the Chinatown Festival and Parade. Lanterns illuminate the streets, vendors sell traditional Chinese foods like dumplings and roast pork, and lion dancers weave through the crowds to the rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals.
The highlight of the evening is the grand parade, featuring elaborate floats, martial arts demonstrations, and cultural performances that celebrate the rich heritage of Honolulu’s Chinese community. Visitors can shop for souvenirs such as lucky red envelopes, handcrafted decorations, and unique art pieces. This event offers a vibrant cultural immersion that marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake in a truly festive style.
Where: Beretania Street & A'ala Park, From Maunakea Street to A'ala Street, Honolulu, HI Chinatown
When: January 25th, 9 am - 10 pm
More Info: Chinatown Festival & Parade
Sony Open in Hawaii
The Sony Open is a highlight of Hawaii’s sports calendar, attracting some of the biggest names in golf to the Waialae Country Club in Honolulu. This PGA Tour event uniquely combines high-stakes competition and laid-back island vibes. The Waialae course is a masterpiece, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean complementing its meticulously designed greens and fairways.
Beyond the thrilling competition, the event is also a major philanthropic initiative, raising millions of dollars for local charities. Spectators can enjoy local food stalls featuring poke bowls, shaved ice, and tropical cocktails while they follow their favorite golfers on the course. The event includes family-friendly activities like interactive golf games, autograph sessions with players, and live evening music performances. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or a casual spectator, the Sony Open is a must-attend event that encapsulates Oahu’s world-class hospitality and natural beauty.
When: January 6th - January 12th
Where: 4997 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, Waialae Country Club
More Information: Sony Open
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Whale Watching Season
January falls within Hawaii's peak humpback whale watching season, and Oahu offers some of the best opportunities to witness these majestic creatures. Tours depart from various harbors, including Honolulu and Ko Olina, taking visitors on a journey to spot whales breaching and playing in the warm Hawaiian waters.
Expert guides on these tours provide fascinating insights into humpback whales' behaviors and migration patterns, enhancing the experience for nature enthusiasts. For those who prefer land-based observation, scenic lookouts like Makapuʻu Point offer a chance to see these gentle giants.
January 2025 on Oahu celebrates culture, community, and natural wonders, offering something for everyone. From the thrilling waves of the North Shore during The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational to the elegant greens of the Waialae Country Club for the Sony Open, the island seamlessly blends world-class sporting events with cultural festivities like the Night in Chinatown Festival and the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade.
These events reflect Oahu’s vibrant spirit, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the new year with joy, reflection, and aloha. As the heart of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu in January sets the stage for unforgettable experiences that honor its unique blend of heritage and modernity. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, the island’s January offerings promise memories to last a lifetime.
