Best ways to enjoy holiday season in Hawaii

Hawaii is renowned world over as one of the most fascinating tourist destinations. If you plan your vacation during Christmas and New Year’s Eve, lots of excitement and surprises are in store for you. Get ready to enjoy unlimited fun and have a wonderful time in this picturesque destination amidst spectacular views, pleasant weather and delicious traditional Hawaiian cuisines during your vacation during these special times. Here are some of the best ways the holiday season in Hawaii. Tantalizing Honolulu City Lights Your Christmas festivities start with the unique, tantalizing Honolulu City Lights. A 21-foot Santa Claus dipping his toes in the cool fountain outside Honolulu Hale can be seen flashing a shaka (hang loose gesture) to passersby. Mrs. Claus, also popularly called Tutu Mele, provides company to Santa by his side watching over the 50-foot Christmas tree. The tree lighting ceremony and electric light parade is watched by several thousands of spectators. The civic grounds of the city are illuminated throughout New Year’s Eve. The festive atmosphere comes alive with wreaths, decorated trees, food booths, carnival rides and performances on selected nights. Welcome of Santa Claus Santa Claus leaves his sleigh and reindeer behind on the mainland and is given a warm welcome by the people upon his arrival at Waikiki Beach in an outrigger canoe in front of the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. A hula troupe greets Santa and poses for pictures. Must-See Historic Attractions The historic Pearl Harbor is a must-see attraction the tourists visiting Hawaii. A daylight tour is conducted here. However, 30-minute evening bout tours past the Arizona Memorial are also organized by the National Park Service and the Navy to enable the visitors catch a glimpse of submarines and active duty ships beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Another important attraction worth visiting is the Iolani Palace, which is decorated with lanterns between Christmas and New Year’s, and is opened for evening tours. The Iolani Palace was home to the Kalakaua Dynasty, when Hawaii was ruled by the monarchy from 1874 to 1893. Musical Performances The holiday season in Hawaii is also marked by several exciting and thrilling musical performances. Ballet Hawaii’s soulful renditions at Blaisdell Concert Hall will keep your “nutcracker” tradition alive. Consider attending free annual concert at the historic Central Union Church to enliven your holiday spirit. Watch out for the performances at the Hawaii Theatre to give holiday music a decidedly Hawaiian spin. The Diamond Head Theatre is also a must-visit for scintillating performances this holiday season. Amazing Fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve in Honolulu is quite delightful. The sky is illuminated with glittering displays of fireworks. You will hear the sound of popping fireworks in every neighborhood of the city. Get amazed by thrilling pyrotechnics shows as well. The best way to enjoy midnight fireworks displays is to find suitable spot along the Ala Moana or Waikiki shorelines. You can also consider taking a cruise on the Star of Honolulu for an ocean view of the fireworks and gourmet dining.