Christmas in Hawaii looks a little different than what you might see on a greeting card. No snow, no fireplaces, no heavy coats. Instead, we’ve got warm breezes, outdoor gatherings, great waves, and poinsettias that grow into actual trees.
The holidays here is all about adapting Christmas traditions with island our unique lifestyle. Let’s explore how we experience Christmas across the Hawaiian Islands.
Mele Kalikimaka is more than a song
If you’ve heard “Mele Kalikimaka,” you already know Hawaii’s most famous Christmas contribution. Written in 1949 by R. Alex Anderson and popularized by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters, this tune introduced the world to the Hawaiian way of saying “Merry Christmas.”
The phrase “Mele Kalikimaka” is a phonetic adaptation shaped by the sounds available in Hawaiian language. The song playfully contrasts snowy mainland winters with Hawaii’s sunny December days, and it’s become a genuine part of local holiday culture.
You’ll hear it everywhere in December: hotel lobbies, radio stations, school concerts, family parties. It’s as much a part of our Christmas as palm trees and warm ocean water.
Poinsettias grow like you wouldn’t believe
On the mainland, poinsettias are delicate indoor plants that barely survive past January. In Hawaii, they thrive year-round and can grow into massive shrubs or even small trees.
Introduced to the islands in the 19th century, poinsettias adapted perfectly to our tropical climate. During the holidays, you’ll see their bright red leaves decorating homes, churches, and public spaces across all the islands.
Local growers cultivate them for holiday markets and fundraisers, and many families have poinsettia bushes in their yards that bloom reliably each December. It’s one of those small details that reminds you Christmas in Hawaii follows its own rhythm.
We get Christmas trees from the mainland
Over 95% of Christmas trees sold in Hawaii are imported from the Pacific Northwest. Douglas fir and Noble fir trees arrive by sea container from Oregon and Washington, about 250,000 trees each season.
But things are changing. The Hawaii Papahana Lāʻau Kalikimaka program is working with local nurseries to grow Christmas trees right here in the islands. They’re cultivating pines, cedars, Norfolk Island pines, and even some native plants as locally grown alternatives.
The goal is reducing import costs and invasive species risks while supporting local agriculture. Some growers also offer tabletop palms or small decorated trees with a more tropical holiday vibe.
…and palm trees get in the spirit, too
Walk through any Hawaii neighborhood in December and you’ll see something distinctly tropical: palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights from base to crown.
Instead of illuminated evergreens in snowy yards, coconut palms and royal palms transform into towering Christmas decorations. Shopping centers, resorts, streets, and residential areas glow with these tropical light displays.
Santa gets a local makeover
On Oahu, Honolulu Hale (Honolulu City Hall) transforms into a holiday destination each December with its famous outdoor Christmas lights and Santa display. But this isn’t your typical North Pole Santa. The giant Honolulu Hale Santa gives a shaka while sitting in board shorts and barefoot alongside “Tutu Mele”!
Yes, we actually have snow (sort of)
Despite Hawaii’s sub-tropical latitude, snow does fall on the high peaks, most notably on Mauna Kea on the Big Island.
Mauna Kea’s summit rises above 13,000 feet, high enough that temperatures drop below freezing and snow gathers during winter months. Locals sometimes drive up to see the snow and build quick snowmen before it melts. Skiing and snowboarding are possible, too (then drive back down the mountain for a sunset surf session).
The spirit of aloha defines the season
Hawaiian Christmas traditions reflect the core values of aloha: generosity, kindness, and genuine connection with others. While decorations and music set the festive tone, the real spirit of the season centers on family, community, and appreciation for where we live.
Instead of snow and silence, Christmas in Hawaii arrives with trade winds, bright sunshine, and traditions with an island life twist.
Whether you’re visiting Maui for the holidays or dreaming about a future Christmas here, you’ll love it — we promise.
Image credits: Meg, Charlotte Cowell, kanaka, jcbwalsh, honolulugov
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