Founder of HawaiiGuide & certified travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Visitors to Oahu in January 2024 can look forward to various special events and festivals offering a mix of cultural, musical, and outdoor activities. Here's a summary of some key events happening on the island.
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is a one-of-a-kind surf competition that honors the legacy of legendary Hawaiian waterman Eddie Aikau. This prestigious event occurs at the iconic Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore, known for its monstrous waves and challenging conditions.
The invitational isn't just any surfing contest; it's a tribute to bravery and skill. It only runs when wave heights reach around 20 feet or more—true giants by any standard. Surfers from all over the globe wait eagerly for this rare opportunity because "The Eddie" can go years without happening if Mother Nature doesn’t deliver those massive swells.
Eddie Aikau was renowned for his fearless big-wave riding and as the first official lifeguard at Waimea Bay, where he saved countless lives with his acts of heroism. His spirit lives on through this competition, which encapsulates respect for culture, community, and above all else—the awe-inspiring power of nature’s biggest waves.
As you witness some of today’s most daring surfers take on colossal oceanic forces during The Eddie, remember it’s more than an event—a celebration steeped in aloha and deeply rooted in Hawaiian tradition.
Where: Waimea Bay, North Shore, Oahu
When: December 14, 2023 through March 12, 2024
More Info: Eddie Aikau Big Wave
ONENesian Music Festival
Welcome to the rhythm of the islands at the ONENesian Music Festival, Oahu's premier celebration of Pacific Islander music and culture! As you enter this vibrant festival, prepare to be enveloped by a wave of harmonious sounds spanning traditional Polynesian beats to contemporary island reggae.
The ONENesian Music Festival is not just an event; it's a gathering that showcases the rich tapestry of Pacific cultures through melody and song. It unites top artists from across Oceania who bring their unique musical styles for an unforgettable series of performances under Oahu’s sunny skies.
Attendees can sway to soulful tunes or dance with abandon as they enjoy back-to-back sets by some of the most talented musicians in the region. But it doesn't stop there—this festival also features cultural workshops, art displays, and delicious culinary delights celebrating island heritage.
Where: 1349 Kapiolani Blvd #30th, Honolulu, HI 96814, The Republik
When: Sunday, January 7th
Hawaii Pop Con 2024
Aloha, pop culture enthusiasts! Get ready for the ultimate fan experience at Hawaii Pop Con 2024. This dazzling convention brings together a colorful array of comics, movies, games, and cosplay right in the heart of Oahu.
Dive into an ocean of creativity where you can meet your favorite artists and actors. Engage in panels discussing everything from the latest trends to classic favorites that have stood the test. Whether you're a die-hard collector or love to soak up vibrant atmospheres full of imagination, this is your playground.
Hawaii Pop Con isn't just another con; it's where tropical vibes meet fandom fantasies under sunny skies. Cosplayers showcase their incredible talents with costumes as breathtaking as Oahu's landscapes, while vendors offer unique memorabilia that will become treasured keepsakes.
Where: Neal S. Blaisdell Center, 777 Ward Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96814
When: Saturday, January 6th & Sunday, January 7th, 10 AM - 7 PM
More Info: Hawaii Pop Con
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31st Annual New Year’s Ohana Festival
Ring in the new year with a splash of culture and fun at the 31st Annual New Year's Ohana Festival on Oahu! This family-friendly event is a vibrant celebration that welcomes locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Hawaii's unique blend of Japanese heritage.
As one of Oahu's most anticipated annual events, the New Year’s Ohana Festival transforms the streets with festive energy. It features an array of activities, from mochi-pounding demonstrations to kimono dress-ups. You can explore craft booths brimming with handmade treasures while live performances keep you entertained throughout the day.
Indulge your taste buds with mouth-watering Japanese cuisine or participate in traditional games that kids and adults alike will enjoy. The festival serves as a bridge between generations, connecting everyone through shared experiences and joyous festivities.
When: Saturday, January 13th, 10 AM- 4 PM
Where: 2454 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96826, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
More Information: Ohana Festival
Sony Open in Hawaii
Golf enthusiasts, get ready to tee off the new year at the Sony Open in Hawaii! This prestigious PGA Tour event is held at Oahu's stunning Waialae Country Club, where palm trees sway, and the Pacific Ocean provides a breathtaking backdrop.
The Sony Open isn't just about watching world-class golfers compete for glory. It's an opportunity to see precision and skill unfold amidst nature’s most beautiful handiwork. The greens are manicured perfection, and each hole offers its own unique challenge that tests even the best players on tour.
This tournament has become a beloved staple for both residents and visitors alike. Beyond witnessing spectacular drives and eagle putts, attendees can also enjoy local food vendors, interactive booths, and activities suited for all ages—making it more than just a sports event but a celebration of community spirit under Hawaii's warm sun.
When: January 8th - January 14th
Where: 4997 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, Waialae Country Club
More Information: Sony Open
Bishop Museum After Hours
Step into a world where history, science, and culture converge under the stars at Bishop Museum After Hours 2024 on Oahu. This exclusive evening event invites you to explore Hawaii's premier natural and cultural history museum like never before.
As dusk falls over Honolulu, the museum grounds come alive with a special after-hours buzz. Visitors have the unique opportunity to stroll through fascinating exhibits without the daytime crowds. It’s your chance to get up close with everything from ancient Hawaiian artifacts to dazzling displays of volcanic phenomena—all beneath a canopy of twinkling stars.
Interactive experiences await around every corner; imagine chatting with experts about Polynesian navigation or getting hands-on with rare specimens usually tucked away in archives. And don't miss out on live entertainment that adds more magic to your nighttime adventure!
Whether you're a curious local or an intrigued traveler, Bishop Museum After Hours offers an enchanting blend of education and excitement—a perfect way to spend an evening indulging in Oahu's rich heritage and scientific wonders!
When: January 12th, 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Where: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817, Bishop Museum
Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony
According to Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center, over 60 NFL players of Polynesian ancestry currently exist. The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame, located at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, is a non-profit dedicated to supporting Polynesian student-athletes and commemorating Polynesian athletic history. Their annual enshrinement ceremony takes place on Saturday morning, January 20th.
Where: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie (Polynesian Cultural Center)
When: Saturday, January 20th, 9 AM
More Info: Polynesian Football Hall of Fame - Events
Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Celebration Dinner
Just hours after the enshrinement ceremony, the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame will move the celebration from its home turf in Laie to the heart of Honolulu at the Sheraton in Waikiki. At 6 PM, there will be an inductee reception in the ballroom foyer, followed by a celebration dinner at 7 PM in the Hawaii ballroom.
Where: 2255 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu (Sheraton Waikiki)
When: Saturday, January 20th, 6 PM
More Info: Polynesian Football Hall of Fame - Events
These events offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Oahu and provide opportunities for both locals and visitors to engage in unique experiences. You can visit the respective websites or local event calendars for more detailed information on these and other events.
