Oahu January Events 2026: Festivals, Free Shows & Family Fun You Can’t Miss!

January is one of the most exciting months on Oahu. The island is not just about beaches and sunsets. It’s alive with festivals, cultural events, local markets, live music and outdoor fun for every traveler and resident. From whale watching to family-friendly festivals, Oahu January Events 2026 offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and community.

Whether you are chasing big waves on the North Shore Food Trucks, exploring artisan markets, or attending Honolulu’s iconic cultural events, this guide will ensures you do not miss a single highlight.

Why January Is Special in Oahu

Oahu January events feels like spring without humidity. The temperature stays mild, usually 70–80°F, ideal for outdoor activities and cultural events. Crowds are smaller than the holiday season yet the island is lively with events for both locals and tourists.

The winter months also bring North Shore surf season and peak humpback whale watching, making Oahu January Events 2026 extra special. Locals call it “off-peak paradise” fewer crowds, more authentic experiences.

January strikes a balance between natural beauty, culture, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy festivals, outdoor activities, art shows, and markets without feeling rushed.

Top January Events on Oahu

1. New Year’s ʻOhana Festival – Jan 11, 2026

One of Oahu’s most beloved cultural festivals in January this event is hosted by the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi. It celebrates heritage, traditions, and community with live performances, foods and family fun.

📍 Location: Mōʻiliʻili, Honolulu
🕒 Time: 10 AM – 3 PM
💰 Cost: Free

What to Expect: Cultural demonstrations, music, dance, craft vendors and the Cherry Blossom Festival opening ceremony.

Why it matters: This festival blends Hawaiian and Japanese New Year traditions. Visitors get an educational yet joyful experience, making it a must-see for Oahu January Events 2026.

2. Sony Open in Hawai‘i – Jan 12–18, 2026

A PGA TOUR golf tournament that attracts international players. The Sony Open is a high-profile Oahu January event combining sport, community engagement, and scenic beauty.

📍 Location: Waialae Country Club, Honolulu
🕒 Week-long event
💰 Cost: Ticketed

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t follow golf, the festive atmosphere, ocean views, and local engagement make this an enjoyable visit. Supports charities and showcases Oahu’s community spirit.

3. KCC Farmers Market – Every Saturday

Start your Saturday mornings at Kapiolani Community College. The market is a staple of Oahu January Events 2026, offering fresh produce, local snacks, artisan crafts and a taste of island life.

📍 Location: Kapiolani Community College
🕒 7:30 AM – 11 AM
💰 Cost: Free

Visitors can enjoy fresh flowers, handmade goods and local delicacies while meeting farmers and artists. This market is both a family-friendly event in Oahu and a great introduction to Hawaiian culture.

4. First Friday Art Walk – Jan 2, 2026

Art enthusiasts will love Honolulu’s Chinatown for First Friday Art Walk. Galleries, shops and street performers create a festive evening for locals and tourists alike.

📍 Location: Chinatown, Honolulu
🕒 5 PM – 9 PM
💰 Cost: Free

Expect exhibitions, live music, local drinks, and casual mingling. It’s a highlight of Honolulu January events and perfect for cultural exploration.

5. Night Market at Koko Marina – Jan 3, 2026

Enjoy a seaside market experience with food stalls, shopping, and live music performance. The Night Market is casual, fun and a favorite Oahu night market.

📍 Location: Koko Marina Shopping Center
🕒 Saturday night
💰 Cost: Free

Great for families, couples, or friends. Evening breeze and relaxed vibe make it ideal for things to do in Oahu January Events.

6. HoMA Nights at Honolulu Museum – Jan 23, 2026

Experience art after hours. HoMA Nights offers art galleries, live music and food trucks in a lively setting.

📍 Location: Honolulu Museum of Art
🕒 6 PM – 9 PM
💰 Ticketed entry

Mini-festival vibe is perfect for Oahu cultural events in January. Great for both art lovers and casual visitors.

7. Royal Hawaiian Band Free Performances

All January, the Royal Hawaiian Band performs free concerts at parks and historic sites.

📍 Locations: Various, Honolulu
🕒 Afternoons
💰 Cost: Free

Pack a picnic, relax, and enjoy traditional Hawaiian music. One of the most authentic free Oahu January events 2026.

Other Fun Events & Activities (All Month)

• Island Craft Fairs & Maker Markets: Local art, jewelry, fashion, food
• Magic Island Biathlon (Jan 24): Run + swim event, Ala Moana Beach Park
• Library Music & Book Sale (Mid-Jan): Check local library calendars
• Plays & Concerts: “Dial Me for Murder”, live music, theater
• University Sports: UH basketball, volleyball games

This variety ensures Oahu January Events 2026 caters to culture, sport, food, and family fun.

Seasonal Outdoor Experiences

Whale Watching Tours

January is peak humpback whale season. Boat tours operate from Waikiki, Ko Olina, and North Shore.

Tip: Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail offers land-based sightings for those who prefer not to go on a boat.

North Shore Surf Season

Winter waves roar on the North Shore at Waimea Bay and Pipeline. Beginners can take lessons at Waikiki. Even spectators enjoy watching pros tackle huge waves.

Tips for Planning Your January Visit

• Book ticketed events early
• Expect traffic around big events
• Dress for variable weather and occasional rain
• Follow lifeguard instructions for winter ocean safety

Conclusion

January in Oahu is more than a getaway. It’s a rich calendar of culture, music, sports, markets, food and family-friendly fun. From free art walks to PGA tournaments, whale watching to farmers markets, Oahu January Events 2026 delivers a mix of excitement, relaxation, and authentic island life.