Honolulu Hosts Free Christmas Concert to Kick Off Holiday Season

Honolulu is set to celebrate the holiday season with a festive concert titled “Kalikimaka Ho‘omau (“It’s Christmas Every Day”)” on **November 28, 2023**. The free concert will take place at the **Blaisdell Concert Hall** and requires no tickets for entry. Doors will open at **18:00**, with the performance beginning at **19:00** and lasting for two hours.

Honolulu Mayor **Rick Blangiardi** announced the event, emphasizing its aim to bring joy during what has been a challenging time for many residents. “We really want this to be a joyous holiday season,” Blangiardi stated. He noted the difficulties faced by the community, particularly related to recent challenges, and expressed hope that the concert would provide a much-needed uplifting experience.

The concert will feature a range of talented artists, including the **Royal Hawaiian Band**, Bandmaster **Clarke Bright**, and renowned musicians such as **Henry Kapono**, **Raiatea Helm**, and members of the **Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus**. The **‘Ohana Jazz Trio**, comprising **Noel Okimoto**, **Dean Taba**, and **Tommy James**, will also perform. Concert attendees can expect a festive atmosphere as the **Royal Hawaiian Band Glee Club**, led by **Kala‘i Stern**, joins the lineup alongside other performers like **Malia Ka‘ai**, **Starr Kalahiki**, **Karen Keawehawai‘i**, and **Kanani Oliveira**.

Helm will celebrate the launch of her new Christmas album, “Raiatea – I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” which is scheduled for digital release on **November 13**. The concert will be emceed by Stern, who has been involved in various musical projects across Hawaii.

The idea for the concert originated from a song written by Kapono, inspired by a conversation with his children. “I asked them what they thought about Christmas and they both said they wished it was Christmas every day,” Kapono recalled. He transformed their innocent wish into the song “I Wish Christmas Was Everyday,” which has since become a beloved holiday tune.

In addition to the concert, attendees can enjoy the premiere of a new holiday lighting display at **Thomas Square**, enhancing the festive spirit in the area. The traditional **Honolulu City Lights** will be unveiled the following day, **November 29**, featuring a tree-lighting ceremony at **Honolulu Hale** and the **Public Workers’ Electric Light Parade** along King Street.

For further details about “Kalikimaka Ho‘omau,” interested individuals can contact the **Royal Hawaiian Band office** at **808-768-6677**. This event promises to be a wonderful opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate the holiday spirit together.