The Honolulu Festival will take place March 7-9 with a series of free dance performances, music and exhibits celebrating the people and cultural diversity of Asia and the Pacific. The festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
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Under the theme, “Jubilation, One Heart, One Pacific, One World,” the Festival’s weekend of activities also offers the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN relay race around historic Diamond Head crater, the Grand Parade through Waikiki, and spectacular Nagaoka Fireworks Show over Waikiki Beach.
Here is a look at the schedule of events:
Friday, March 7
Friendship Gala, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
The Friendship Gala features exciting cultural entertainment by Honolulu Festival performers and the cuisine of top restaurants on Oahu. Held at the Hawaii Convention Center, the Gala is a benefit for the Honolulu Festival Foundation to support its educational and cultural programs.
- Cost: $90 per person over age 21 / $70 for under 21 (children under age 6 are free)
- Includes food and one beverage
Saturday, March 8
Cultural Performances, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Free cultural and arts performances at the Hawaii Convention Center, Waikiki Beach Walk and Ala Moana Center.
Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, 9:00 a.m.
Race in the second annual “EKIDEN” (long distance relay) race. A tradition of Japan for over 90 years, EKIDEN brings teams of 3-5 runners together in the spirit of aloha to compete in this scenic ocean view route around Diamond Head. Registration and more information are available at HonoluluEkiden.com.
Sunday, March 9
Cultural Performances, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free cultural and arts performances at the Hawaii Convention Center, Waikiki Beach Walk and Ala Moana Center.
Waikiki Grand Parade, 4:30 p.m.
The Festival’s performers and floats will captivate onlookers as they dance their way along Kalakaua Avenue.
Nagaoka Fireworks Show, 8:30 p.m.
This spectacular 20-minute fireworks show from Nagaoka City, Japan will light up the skies over Waikiki Beach.
Visit www.honolulufestival.com