Our Guide: Sunset Mele on the Rooftop

7 tips to parking, eating and finding the bathrooms at this new free, family event.

You have probably been inside the Hawaii Convention Center. But have you ever been on the rooftop? The 4th floor space has a garden, pond, and a open view of the sky. This weekend, it will also be the site of a free movie for families.

Sunset Mele on the Roof will be a monthly event through December. The first will feature Elsa, Anna, Olaf and live music by a former member of Kapena.

So what will you find at this family event at the Convention Center’s 2.5 acre garden? We asked organizers for the inside scoop.

Friday, July 10 update: Because of the possibility of bad weather, the Sunset Mele has been moved into the ballrooms on the 4th floor (just across from the rooftop garden). Organizers will be rolling out artificial turf, so you are still welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs. The rest of the features will be the same as listed below.

Our Tips

Tip 1: Arrive Early to Save Your Space.

The event starts at 5 p.m. But the public will be allowed in starting at 4:30 p.m. Arrive early to get the best parking (see Tip 2), save the best spot on the lawn and eat before the princesses arrive. They’ll only be available for one hour.

Tip 2: Park Near the Main Entrance.

The spaces near the main entrance to the Convention Center, in row B, give you the shortest route to the escalator or elevator that will take you to the 4th level. Remember, parking at the Center is $5.

Tip 3: Bring Cash for Snacks.

The Convention Center menu includes everything from truffle parmesan or hurricane popcorn to hot dogs. Prices start at $1.75 for candy and chips and top out at $8. There are also a few food vendors at the Sunset Mele Market Place. One recommendation from organizers is Convention Center chef Paul Matsumoto’s Rippin Reuben or the Grilled Portuguese Sausage Hot Dog with Swiss cheese, pipikaula, pickled won bok and remoulade. Food vendors will open at 5 p.m.

Tip 4: Bring a Camera.

Storybook characters will wander through the crowd from 6:30 p.m. until the movie starts at 7:30 p.m. You’ll find the Snow Queen, Princess and Prince from Frozen.

Tip 5: Find Your Bathrooms.

The restrooms on the rooftop are located right behind the pond (see the layout of the 4th floor here). But, if it gets too busy, restrooms on every floor will be open.

Tip 6: Know the Schedule.

The Market Place opens at 5 p.m. Live music begins at 6 p.m. The princesses arrive at 6:30 p.m., the movie begins at 7:30 p.m. The event ends at 9 p.m.

Tip 7: Bring Blankets and Chairs.

You will be sitting for about 4 and-a-half hours, so you will want to be comfortable. High-back chairs are not allowed.

Sunset Mele on the RooftopSaturday, July 11. 5 -9:30 p.m. The next event will be August 15.Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua AvenueFacebook.com/hawaiiconventioncenter