7 Reasons to Get Out

December 22, 2008

Tiffany Hill,

Ring in ’09, Again
Jan. 11

The new year may have started 11 days ago, but that doesn’t mean the partying has to end. The New Year’s Ohana Festival—put on by the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii—is a free event loaded with martial arts demonstrations, food and crafts. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the center and in Moiliili Field. Call 945-7633.

PHOTO: COURTESY JAPANESE CULTURAL CENTER OF HAWAII

Sing Along
Jan. 2-11

Photo: Eros Entertainment

The rhythmic songs and dances of India make their way to Oahu at the second annual Bollywood Film Festival at the
Doris Duke Theatre. India’s popular cinematic genre features extravagant costumes, choreography and drama performed by India’s hottest actors. A different film will be shown every day at 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Call 532-3033.

Smile for the Judges
Jan. 10

Decide for yourself who should be crowned the Narcissus Queen at the 60th annual pageant at the Hawaii Theatre, sponsored by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Part of the Narcissus Festival—coinciding with the lunar new year—12 women displaying the characteristics and traditions of Chinese culture will compete for the crown. Call 533-3181.

Plan Your Big Day
Jan. 16-19

Dresses and flowers and stationery, oh my! If you are engaged, related to someone who’s engaged or just love weddings, this is the ultimate event to attend in planning for the big day. The twice-yearly Hawaii Bridal Expo at the Neal Blaisdell has everything from bridal runway shows, local wedding planners and event ideas to prize giveaways and gown sales. Call 591-2211.

Head-Spinning Tricks
Jan. 16-18

If you missed out on Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco, or want some more acrobatic action, check out the New Shanghai Circus at the Hawaii Theatre. Since 1991, this international touring troupe has defied gravity with its individual and group acrobatics, which most members have been practicing since they could walk. Call 528-0506 or visit www.hawaiitheatre.com

Have a Dream
Jan. 19

Photo: Scott Foster

Honor what would be his 80th birthday with the 21st annual Martin Luther King Parade and Celebration, put on by MLK Jr. Coalition Hawaii. The celebration—complete with music, dancing, and food—starts at 9 a.m. with a parade from Magic Island to Kapiolani Park. Visit www.mlk-hawaii.com

Photo: Vanessa Meade

Make Some Noise
Jan. 24

What makes music from 5-gallon buckets, taps across the stage and wails on a sax? The Buckets and Tap Shoes, of course. This group, part band, part dance troupe, is always movin’ and groovin’. Check out these innovative, international performers at the Leeward Community College Theatre.

This article appears in the January 2009 issue of HONOLULU Magazine.