HONOLULU (KHON2) — From shopping and concerts to memorials and fundraisers, there’s a lot going on around Hawaiʻi for Memorial Day weekend.
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, honors the people who have died while serving in the U.S. military.
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Originally known as Decoration Day, it began after the Civil War to commemorate fallen soldiers. The day is marked by ceremonies at cemeteries and memorials, with many people visiting graves of military personnel to place flags and flowers.
Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, includes parades, barbecues and family gatherings. Communities often hold events, including concerts and festivals, to celebrate and remember the sacrifices of service members. The long weekend provides a time for reflection and patriotic activities.
Of course, there are always beaches, water sports, hiking and other outdoor activities that are literally everywhere you look.
So, here’s what’s happening.
Friday, May 24
ConFest 2024
This biennial theatre festival and conference brings together indigenous artists from across the nation. This year’s ConFest celebrates new works by Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian), Pacific Islander and local Asian American theater practitioners. Enjoy plays, workshops, panel sessions, networking events, and student showcases.
This event goes through Tuesday, May 28, and is taking place at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, 2500 Campus Road. Cost is between $20 and $800, depending on event and ticket selections. Click here for more information.
Death of a Salesman
Mānoa Valley Theatre presents Arthur Miller’s award-winning play, Death of a Salesman. Follow the story of Willy Loman, a failing salesman grappling with his lack of success and the realization that his pursuit of the “American Dream” blinded him to the love and support of his family.
This event runs from Thursday, May 23, through Sunday, June 2, at Mānoa Valley Theater, 2833 East Mānoa Road. Tickets are @5-$47, depending on seating choices. Click here for more information.
- Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.
- Second Saturday, 3 p.m.
- Sunday, 3 p.m.
Hippie Sabotage
Experience the electronic and hip-hop duo, Hippie Sabotage, consisting of brothers Kevin and Jeff Saurer. Known for their genre-blending music, their popular hits include a remix of “Habits (Stay High)” and “Devil Eyes”.
This show is at The Republik, 1349 Kapi‘olani Boulevard, #30. Click here for more information.
Ka ‘Ulu Wena: Oceanic Red Opening
Join the opening of Bishop Museum’s newest exhibition, “Ka ‘Ulu Wena: Oceanic Red,” exploring the significance of the color red in the landscapes, memories, and creative expressions of Oceania. The event features tours, live music by Kuana Torres Kahele, a hula presentation with five halau, and food and beverages for sale.
This event takes place between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. It takes place at Bishop Museum, 1525 Bernice Street. Tickets are $5 for Bishop Museum members, $15 general admission. Click here for more information.
Sheng Wang
Friday, May 24, and Saturday, May 25, 7 to 9 p.m.
Comedian, actor, and writer Sheng Wang, known for his Netflix special “Sweet and Juicy,” brings his witty, dry, and refreshingly clean humor to the stage. He has also appeared on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and wrote for ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat.”
Lei-a-Bear Weekend
Lei-A-Bear Weekend, hosted by The Aloha Bears, will become an annual 5-day event over Memorial Day weekend. Visitors from around the world can expect a full schedule of parties, entertainment, and activities unique to O’ahu, including popular events like the Meet & Greet, Fetish Party, Bear Boat/Booze Cruise and Secret Island Excursion. The schedule also allows plenty of free time for socializing and enjoying the island.
This event runs through Monday, May 27. Click here for more information.
Saturday, May 25
Memorial Day Weekend Sidewalk Sales
Saturday, May 25, through Monday, May 27
Shop at Ka Makana Ali‘i over Memorial Day weekend for special sidewalk sales. On Saturday, May 25, spend $125 or more throughout the Center, present your same-day receipts at the redemption station, and receive a $15 gift card to Ocean Creations or T&C Surf Designs.
This event runs through Monday, May 27.
AnArtsyElevated Backyard Pāʻina
As Purple Maiʻa revisits the many currents we’ve ridden and what kept the organization grounded along the way, they are getting charged and fired up for the next 10 years. There may be sparks, even explosions. Grab some ʻawa with us and get swept along in this electric celebration.
The event is taking place at Capitol Modern, 250 South Hotel Street from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $75. Click here for more information.
Ohana Fun Festival — Hilo
Child & Family Service is hosting a free ‘Ohana Fun Festival for East Hawai’i families, featuring prize giveaways, crafts, games, food, and informational booths. CFS staff will provide information about their programs and community services. Families must register in advance to attend, with a maximum of two adults per family and unlimited children under 18. This event is funded by the State of Hawaii Department of Health and other federal health and human services departments.
This event is free and is taking place at Sangha Hall, 424 Kilauea Avenue in Hilo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Click here for more information.
Boro-Boro Boutique Sew-A-Thon
The Garden Island Arts Council’s sewing committee, BoroBoro Boutique, is hosting a 3-day Sew-a-Thon and Pop-up Shop. The event features activities, workshops, artist talks, demonstrations, and live sewing. Proceeds support a new community art project: a mosaic mural of the Hawaiian Archipelago. The Garden Island Arts Council, a non-profit since 1977, aims to bring arts to the people and people to the arts.
This event from runs through Monday, May 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kauaʻi Society of Artists Gallery, Kukui Grove Shopping Center. Click here for more information.
Health and Wellness Expo
Create more health and happiness by sampling various healing modalities with local practitioners. Whether you’re facing mental health challenges, physical pain, toxic habits, or simply want to continue your growth journey, there’s something for everyone. Experience and learn about Reiki, Lomi Lomi, the Lefkoe Method, intuitive massage, Rolfing, Foundation Training, painting for the soul, and breath work. Discover the new Heart Space wellness center opening in Waialua. Invest in your wellness and start living a balanced life.
This event is taking place Bizia Surf & Coffee Bar from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wahiawa Industrial Center, 401 North Cane Street, #A2. Click here for more information.
Sunday, May 26
DRIPNIQ: Picnic + Music Festival
This vibrant picnic returns to Bishop Museum’s lawn for its third year. Enjoy food, fashion, music, dancing, and art with local entertainers and artists from Atlanta and Portugal. Note: This event is for ages 21 and over.
This event takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bishop Museum, 1525 Bernice Street. Tickets are $85. Click here for more information.
Hibiscus Half Marathon
Join the 15K and 5-mile run starting and ending at Kapi‘olani Park at the Diamond Head end of Waikīkī. Packet pickup is at ‘Alohilani Resort on Thursday, May 23, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.; Friday, May 24, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, May 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This run is part of the Tropical Triple Crown.’
This event takes place from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Kapi‘olani Park, 3840 Paki Avenue. This is a family friendly event. Click here for more information.
Pacific Roller Derby Match — Hulagans v. Birds
This is something you don’t want to miss. Blood, sweat and tears and that’s just from the spectators. Join these fabulous athletes as they take out their aggression and have fun in this iconic sport.
This event takes place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Click here for more information.
Monday, May 27 — Memorial Day
Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai‘i
Every Memorial Day weekend, thousands gather at Ala Moana Beach Park to write messages on paper lanterns for loved ones who have passed. This moving ceremony culminates in the release of candle-filled lanterns on the water at sunset.
This event takes place between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Ala Moana Beach. Click here for more information.
73rd Honolulu Memorial Day Ceremony
In honor of those who gave their lives serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, the City and County of Honolulu and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs present the 73rd Mayor’s Memorial Day Ceremony. The event features oli, speeches from Mayor Rick Blangiardi and Admiral Stephen T. Koehler, a color guard, wreath presentations, a firearm salute, a military aircraft flyover, taps, performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band, and hula from the 95th Lei Court.
This event takes place at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Pūowaina (Punchbowl). It begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. Click here for more information.
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Well, there you have it. Lots of fun things to do this weekend as you celebrate those who sacrificed their lives.
