Aloha Festivals (September)
Kick off the fall season with one of the biggest cultural celebrations in Hawaii – the Aloha Festivals! Spanning across multiple weekends in September, this statewide festival showcases Hawaiian music, dance, history, and culture. The Aloha Festivals Floral Parade is a must-see, with beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and hula performances parading through Waikiki. Visit alohafestivals.com for more information.
- When: September
- Where: Various locations across Oahu, including Waikiki
- Highlights: Aloha Festivals Royal Court, traditional Hawaiian hula, and live music. It's a family-friendly way to experience authentic Hawaiian culture—perfect for all ages.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (Typically October-November)
Food enthusiasts flock to the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, a premier culinary extravaganza showcasing global chefs and local flavors. Expect gourmet tastings, wine pairings, farm-to-table dinners, and cooking demos that highlight Hawaii's fresh ingredients like taro, seafood, and tropical fruits.
- Where: Various venues on Oahu, including resorts and urban spots.
- Highlights: Signature gala events, celebrity chef collaborations, and sustainable dining experiences.
- Why Attend: Indulge in world-class cuisine while supporting local farmers and artisans.
Check the official site for tickets and updates.
Kailua Fall Festival (Typically September)
For a local vibe, head to the Kailua Fall Festival—a street party in windward Oahu featuring live music, food vendors, and family activities. This event transforms Kailua's streets into a lively block party with artisan booths and entertainment.
- Where: Kailua Town
- Highlights: Local bands, craft beers, and kid-friendly games.
- Why Attend: Experience small-town aloha away from the tourist crowds.
Top North Shore Surf Competitions
Surf fans rejoice! The North Shore hosts a lineup of iconic events each season, typically from October to March. While exact dates vary based on permits and swell conditions, these competitions are annual highlights. Note: The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is no longer held, but other events continue to shine.
Hawaiian Islands Sunset Pro
- Where: Sunset Beach, North Shore, Oahu
- When: Typically late October to early November
- What: A World Surf League (WSL) Men’s and Women’s Qualifying Series (QS) event, where pros earn points toward the Challenger Series and WSL Championship Tour.
- Why Attend: Sunset Beach’s deep-water reef break delivers long, barreling waves ideal for big maneuvers. Perfect for spectators, but bring binoculars as waves break far offshore.
- Details: Watch rising stars battle for career-defining points. Check the WSL website for updates.
HIC Haleiwa Pro
- Where: Haleiwa Ali’i Beach Park, North Shore, Oahu
- When: Typically late November to early December
- What: Another WSL Qualifying Series event showcasing top-tier competitors.
- Why Attend: Waves break close to shore, making it a spectator-friendly spot right by Haleiwa Town’s restaurants and shops.
- Details: Known for its V-shaped reef and powerful waves, this event is a fan favorite. Visit the WSL site for schedules.
These events not only provide entertainment but also deepen your connection to Oahu's culture. Pro tip: Many are free or low-cost, making them accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Fall is the perfect time to visit Oahu! With these exciting events on the horizon, you can experience the island’s vibrant culture, music, food, and traditions while enjoying the mild autumn weather. Make the most of your vacation by staying at one of our conveniently located vacation rentals, offering easy access to all of these fabulous fall activities. Check out our other blog post to see the benefits of booking your vacation to Oahu in the Fall.
