2026 Events and Festivities

Fourth of July Fireworks

O'ahu's biggest night of the year for fireworks. Multiple shows launch simultaneously across the island, and you can see several from elevated spots in town.

Ala Moana Beach Park (Largest Display)

• O'ahu's flagship fireworks show — the biggest on the island
• Beach fills up by mid-afternoon; stake out your spot early
• Parking is extremely limited; consider rideshare or bus

Kailua Beach Park

• Windward side's main celebration with live music and food
• Fireworks at dusk, around 8:00 PM

The Ritz-Carlton O'ahu, Turtle Bay (North Shore)

• Family-friendly celebration with fireworks over the point
• One of the few North Shore fireworks displays

Military Bases (Pearl Harbor / Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam)

• Visible from Aiea Heights and parts of Salt Lake
• Not open to the general public, but the display carries across the harbor

Prince Lot Hula Festival

Saturday, July 18, 2026 (estimated)
Moanalua Gardens, Honolulu

Hawaii's largest non-competitive hula event. Halau from across the islands perform kahiko (ancient) and auana (modern) hula on the grounds of Moanalua Gardens, a setting Prince Lot Kapuaiwa (King Kamehameha V) used for his own hula performances in the 1800s. The festival is free and draws thousands. Bring a blanket, sit on the grass, and watch some of the best dancers in the state.

Official Info: Moanalua Gardens Foundation

Ukulele Festival Hawaii

Sunday, July 19, 2026 (estimated)
Kapiolani Park Bandstand, Waikīkī

Founded by Roy Sakuma, this free outdoor festival fills Kapiolani Park with hundreds of ukulele players and celebrity performers for a full day of music. It is one of the longest-running ukulele events in the world. No tickets needed — just show up.

Official Info: Ukulele Festival Hawaii

50th State Fair

Continues from May/June
Aloha Stadium, Honolulu

Carnival rides, local food vendors, games, and live entertainment. The fair typically runs weekends from late May through July. Good for families with kids and anyone who wants deep-fried everything.

Official Info: 50th State Fair

Obon (Bon Dance) Season Peak

Weekends throughout July
Temples across O'ahu

July is peak Obon season. Temples host bon dances on rotating weekends with taiko drums, community dancing around a yagura tower, and some of the best festival food on the island — andagi, yakitori, shave ice. Hawaii Betsuin (Nu'uanu), Waipahu Hongwanji, and Pearl City Hongwanji are among the most popular. Check the Honolulu Star-Advertiser for the full temple schedule each week.

Planning Your July 2026 Visit

July on O'ahu is hot and busy. The trade winds keep things bearable, but you will sweat at outdoor festivals. Hydrate, wear sunscreen, and arrive early for any free event — Ala Moana on the Fourth and Prince Lot Hula Festival both pack out well before showtime.

Bon dances run on different weekends at different temples. If you want to hit multiple, plan around the published temple schedule (usually posted a few weeks before July in the Star-Advertiser). The food alone is worth the trip.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Event dates and details are subject to change — verify with official sources before attending
• Free events draw large crowds; arrive early for parking and good spots
• July is peak tourist season; book accommodations and car rentals well in advance

O'ahu's July 2026 lineup covers fireworks, hula, ukulele, carnival rides, and temple festivals. Hard to find a weekend without something going on.