Things to Do on Oahu in September 2026
September is an exciting time to be on Oahu! From cultural celebrations and live entertainment to one of Hawaii’s largest block parties, there are plenty of ways to experience the island during your stay.
If you’re staying with us at The Imperial Hawaii Resort this September, here are a few events to add to your plans.
Aloha Festivals Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony
Saturday, September 5 | 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Coconut Grove at The Royal Hawaiian and The Royal Grove at Royal Hawaiian Center
Kick off Aloha Festivals with an evening celebrating Hawaiian culture and tradition in the heart of Waikiki.
The Royal Court Investiture begins with a ceremony honoring Hawaii’s alii, or ruling chiefs, as the 2026 Aloha Festivals Royal Court is introduced. Accompanied by hula, chant and pageantry, members of the Royal Court don traditional regalia as part of the ceremony.
Following the Investiture, the celebration continues at The Royal Grove at Royal Hawaiian Center with hula and musical performances. It’s a special opportunity to experience Hawaiian culture and tradition right here in Waikiki.
44th Annual Okinawan Festival
Saturday, September 5 | 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 6 | 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hawaii Convention Center
Celebrate Okinawan culture, food and traditions at the 44th Annual Okinawan Festival.
Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers can enjoy live music, traditional dance, martial arts performances, cultural exhibits, authentic Okinawan food, shopping, activities and special guests from Japan. Guests can also explore hands on cultural experiences and learn more about Okinawan traditions and history in Hawaii.
Due to renovations at the Hawaii Convention Center, the 2026 event will be a scaled down and modified version of the annual festival. There will be no early admission or Bon Dance this year.
General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors ages 65 and older. Children 12 and under are free. Two day tickets are also available online.
72nd Annual Waikiki Hoolaulea
Saturday, September 19 | 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Vendors open beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki
Get ready for one of September’s biggest celebrations right here in Waikiki!
The Waikiki Hoolaulea transforms Kalakaua Avenue into Hawaii’s largest annual block party. The evening brings together local food, Hawaiian crafts, culture and live entertainment throughout Waikiki.
Stroll along Kalakaua Avenue, try local flavors, browse artisan made crafts and enjoy multiple stages featuring local artists and award winning halau hula.
For guests of The Imperial Hawaii Resort, the celebration is especially convenient. Head out into Waikiki and enjoy an evening filled with food, music and culture just minutes from the resort.
78th Annual Aloha Festivals Floral Parade
Saturday, September 26 | 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Ala Moana Park through Kalakaua Avenue to Kapiolani Park
Experience one of Aloha Festivals’ most colorful traditions as the annual Floral Parade makes its way through Waikiki.
The parade features floats decorated with fresh Hawaiian flowers, traditional pau horseback riders, halau hula, marching bands and other participants celebrating Hawaiian culture.
The procession begins at Ala Moana Park, travels along Kalakaua Avenue and finishes at Kapiolani Park. Guests can find a spot along the route and enjoy the sights, sounds and traditions of this annual Waikiki celebration.
Na Wahine O Ke Kai Canoe Race
Sunday, September 27 | First Finishers Expected Around 1:30 p.m.
Finish Line: Dukes Beach at Hilton Hawaiian Village
Head to the shores of Waikiki to watch an incredible display of strength and endurance during the 2026 Na Wahine O Ke Kai Canoe Race.
The women’s outrigger canoe race begins at 8:00 a.m. at Hale O Lono on Molokai. Paddlers take on a challenging 41 mile journey across the Kaiwi Channel before reaching the shores of Oahu.
The first crews are expected to cross the finish line at Dukes Beach at Hilton Hawaiian Village at approximately 1:30 p.m. Head down to Waikiki Beach to cheer on the paddlers as they complete their journey. An awards ceremony is scheduled for approximately 3:30 p.m. at the Awards Tent on Waikiki Beach.
Experience September in Waikiki
Whether you’re interested in Hawaiian traditions, local food, live music or some of Oahu’s biggest annual celebrations, September is a great month to get out and explore.
Staying at The Imperial Hawaii Resort puts you in the heart of Waikiki and close to several of the month’s biggest events. Spend less time getting there and more time experiencing everything happening around you.
Want more time to experience everything Oahu has to offer? With Imperial Hawaii Vacation Club, you can enjoy more opportunities to return to Waikiki, make new memories and experience your favorite island traditions year after year. Click Here!