The Best Things to Do on O‘ahu in November 2020
‘Tis the season to love the island we live on with the 40th anniversary of an international film festival, a Thanksgiving concert, sunflower gazing, tree planting, take a hike and more.
The only thing that’s certain nowadays is uncertainty. So we recommend calling ahead to check for any event changes.
Theater & Arts
40th Annual Hawai‘i International Film Festival
November 5–15
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The show must go on and thankfully organizers of HIFF’s annual fall event are working hard to make that happen. This year the festival will provide film lovers with a mix of virtual streams, small in-person events, drive-in cinemas and HIFF’s special Talk Story events with international filmmakers.
Various venues and prices, hiff.org
Kids & Family
Drive-Thru Sunflower Fields
Nov. 1–30
Photo: David Croxford
Is it just me or are sunflowers simply the happiest of all flora? And, boy oh boy, does 2020 need a heavy dose of happiness. Waimānalo Country Farms put its usual Rustic Fall Nights and pumpkin patches in October on hold but opening its sunflower fields throughout November. Visit the website for the most up to date information on booking your time slot for your group (one vehicle per group).
Waimānalo Country Farms, starting at $10.83 , waimanalocountryfarms.com
Concert
Thanksgiving with Anuhea
Nov. 25–28 | 6 p.m. & 9 p.m. shows
It’s been 10 years since Maui artist Anuhea debuted her first album. The Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winner plans to perform at the Waikīkī venue during Thanksgiving weekend again this year. We’ve been cautious about recommending in-person events due to multiple lockdowns during the quaran-times, but we very much hope this reggae pop singer-songwriter takes the stage.
Blue Note Hawai‘i, $30–$40, bluenotehawaii.com
At Home
In a Bit of a Pickle
Photo: Katrina Valcourt
We love any excuse to show off home projects these days, so how about jumping on the National Pickle Day train? On Nov. 14, get out your fruits and veggies and prepare to add some major oomph to your salads, hot dogs, burgers and sammies with your own pickled goods. Need some inspo? Look no further than our very own staff’s list of favorite pickle recipes and hacks.
SEE ALSO: HONOLULU Staff Favorites: The 8 Best Noodle Soups on O‘ahu for Rainy Days
Outdoor
Take a Hike
Photo: Lorin Eleni Gill
Nov. 17 marks National Hiking Day, so get on one of our many, many trails. From jungles and ridges to pine forests and waterfalls, there is definitely a (legal and safe) trail for every interest and skill level. Head to our extensive list of tried and tested hiking guides.
SEE ALSO: The Best Things to do Outdoors While You Staycation on O‘ahu During Quarantine
Online
Support & Shop
Photo: Courtesy of Aloha Home Market
The Aloha Home Market is a regular pop-up and favorite, but now more than ever we are keen on showing up to show our local creatives some love. On both Nov. 7 and 15 in Kailua, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can shop for gifts, new threads to wear to tiny holiday gatherings, and home décor to spruce up your quarantine cave.
Environment
Plant a Tree
Photo: Courtesy of Arbor Day Hawai‘i
It’s Arbor Day in Hawai‘i! While the large events have been canceled this year, thousands of trees will be available for pickup for you to plant at home. Starting at 9 a.m. on Nov. 7, five locations on O‘ahu will be giving out trees, including spots in Honolulu, Central O‘ahu and on the Windward Side.
This story originally appeared as “November Picks” in the November 2020 issue of HONOLULU Magazine. Get your copy at shop.honolulumagazine.com and subscribe to the print and digital editions now.
Looking for fun new ways to experience the city? HONOLULU’s got you covered with HNLTix, your brand-new local resource for all things social—fundraisers, concerts, comedy shows, expos and everything in between. Discover your next can’t-miss event, share your favorites with friends, or promote your own event and sell tickets online. To see what’s coming up next in Honolulu, visit HNLTix.com.
