Hale ‘Aina Celebration Returns: A Moroccan-Inspired Culinary Night at The Royal Hawaiian
Presented by First Hawaiian Bank and Mastercard, this magical evening under the stars celebrates Hawai‘i’s top chefs and restaurants in vintage style.
HONOLULU Magazine’s signature Hale ‘Aina Celebration is back on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, and this year’s gala promises to be more dazzling than ever. Held on the iconic Ocean Lawn of The Royal Hawaiian, the event takes guests on a culinary and cultural journey with a new theme: A Night in Morocco.
Picture this: as the sun sets over Waikīkī, the grounds of the Pink Palace transform into an enchanting Moroccan bazaar. You’ll be welcomed into an immersive world of spice hued textiles, glowing lanterns and sultry music that evokes the rhythms of Marrakech. It’s a festive and flavorful backdrop for the real stars of the evening—Hawai‘i’s award-winning chefs.
Photo: Hy’s Steakhouse
As part of the Hale ‘Aina Awards, the evening is a celebration of excellence in local dining. Past and present Hale ‘Aina winners will come together to serve signature dishes that reflect the depth and diversity of Hawai‘i’s food scene. Expect bold flavors, creative presentation, and plenty of culinary surprises. Flowing wines, craft cocktails and beers from local breweries will complement the bites.
But that’s not all—this year’s gala also adds an element of play. Guests can try their luck at blackjack and craps tables nestled among the tents, and winnings can be redeemed for fun prizes at the First Hawaiian Bank Marketplace. It’s a fresh and interactive way to engage with the evening, making the celebration feel both elevated and accessible.
Adding even more value, First Hawaiian Bank Mastercard® holders receive exclusive benefits, including early access to tickets and 20% off purchases when using their Mastercard at checkout. Simply enter the first six digits of your card at hnltix.com to unlock the deal.
The Hale ‘Aina Celebration is the final event in a yearlong series honoring Hawai‘i’s restaurant community, which began with BrunchFest in March and continued with the Rosé Soirée in May. Each event brings its own unique flair, but the finale promises to be the most elegant—and extravagant—yet.
Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of fine dining, or simply looking for a night out that combines flavor, fantasy, and a touch of fun, this is the gala not to miss.
Get your tickets now at hnltix.com and come dressed to impress for a night of culinary magic, Moroccan flair and unforgettable memories under the stars.
