By Staff Reports
(Honolulu)– Get ready to feel the magic of the season! Today, a 55-foot Cook pine tree was installed to serve as the centerpiece for the 41st Honolulu City Lights. The City and County of Honolulu, in partnership with the Friends of Honolulu City Lights and Show Aloha Land, is proud to present one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved holiday traditions, which this year will illuminate both the Civic Center Grounds and Thomas Square Park with joy and aloha.
The festivities launch on Nov. 29, with the Opening Night Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. in front of Honolulu Hale. As Mayor Blangiardi lights the City’s iconic holiday tree, Thomas Square Park will be illuminated at the very exact moment — marking the first time in Honolulu City Lights history that both parks will sparkle together.
Opening Night activities begin at 4 p.m. with a Block Party along Punchbowl Street, featuring ‘ono food and local favorites. At 6:15 p.m., the beloved Public Workers’ Electric Light Parade will depart ‘A‘ala Park, travel down South King Street, and pass Honolulu Hale on its way to Kawaiaha‘o Street — wrapping the heart of downtown in a glowing ribbon of lights and holiday cheer. After the tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment will continue behind Mission Memorial Auditorium.
All the traditional and cherished decorations on the Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds – including Shaka Santa and Tūtū Mele – are being brought to you by the Friends of Honolulu City Lights.
At Thomas Square Park, the celebration continues as Show Aloha Land – led by Mike Gangloff – transforms the historic grounds into a dazzling winter wonderland. Visitors will experience keiki train rides, festive craft and food vendors, a chance to meet Santa, and an immersive display of light tunnels, illuminated trees, and brilliant holiday features that will shine throughout the season.
Holiday festivities at both locations run through the month of December. The City Department Holiday Tree Exhibition inside Honolulu Hale will close on Friday, December 26, 2025, and outdoor displays will begin powering down on Monday, December 29, 2025.
This year’s Honolulu City Lights is poised to be the brightest yet — two parks, one celebration, and endless aloha. This year’s theme, “Navigating by the Stars,” honors and celebrates the 50th anniversary of Hōkūle‘a, Hawai‘i’s legendary voyaging canoe that first launched on March 8, 1975.
Street closures, detours, and TheBus route adjustments will be announced in the coming weeks. For event updates, maps, and schedules, visit www.hnlcitylights.com