Welcome back to your monthly Maui Calendar of Events! As the festive season unfolds, Maui welcomes December with a vibrant array of events that capture the island’s unique spirit and charm. This month, our community comes alive with a diverse lineup of celebrations, from enchanting ballet performances to dynamic concerts. From Kahului, Upcountry and Ma’alaea, whether you’re a lover of the arts, a supporter of community initiatives, or simply in search of holiday cheer, our December 2023 Calendar of Events offers something special for everyone. Join us as we explore these captivating events, each promising to add a touch of Maui magic to your holiday season.
Dashing Through the Sea at Maui Ocean Center
The Maui Ocean Center invites you to partake in a special evening, ‘Dashing Through the Sea: A Holiday Celebration.’ This festive gathering promises an array of activities and attractions, featuring local gift vendors for unique holiday shopping, engaging games, and the enchantment of face painting. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant aquarium exhibits and immerse themselves in a festive experience within the Sphere Theater. The event will be graced by the talents of Logan Kalawaia, Ta’aroa Nui Halau, and Nā ‘Ohu. Adding to the holiday spirit, expect the melodies of roaming Christmas carolers. Additionally, Uncle Arlie will offer complimentary ʻukulele lessons, providing a unique and enjoyable learning experience for all attendees. Join at Maui Ocean Center for an evening of holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences.
When: Friday December 1, 6 – 9 pm. Where: Maui Ocean Center, 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793.
Hui Holidays Santa’s Workshop
Join us at the historic Kaluanui Estate for a festive family event, hosted by Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center. This special day is packed with holiday cheer and activities for the entire family. You’ll have the chance to meet and take pictures with Santa from 10 am to 12 pm, perfect for capturing holiday memories. Additionally, an exclusive ceramics studio sale will be available, offering unique gift options. Children can engage in a free art activity, sparking creativity and festive fun. The event will also feature live music from Jordan Soon from 12 pm to 1:30 pm, adding to the holiday atmosphere. To complete your holiday shopping, visit Hui Holidays for a selection of local gifts. This event promises a delightful blend of art, music, and holiday spirit, making it a perfect outing for families.
When: Saturday, December 10, 10 am – 2 pm. Where: Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, 2841 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, HI 96768.
Wayne Newton: Up Close and Personal
Wayne Newton, a global entertainment icon known for his signature song “Danke Schoen” and hits like “Daddy, Don’t You Walk So Fast,” is a mainstay in the music industry with an impressive 165 albums to his name. His career longevity places him among the legends in the entertainment world, particularly highlighted by his more than 25,000 shows in Las Vegas. Newton’s recent return to the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino features his “Up Close and Personal” show, a blend of his hit songs and personal anecdotes from his storied Vegas career. In conjunction with this event, the MACC is dedicated to wildfire relief efforts, collecting non-perishable items for the Maui Food Bank. Attendees contributing donations will have the chance to win a front-row seat upgrade, integrating philanthropy with entertainment.
When: Thursday, Dec 7 2023, 7:30 pm. Pre-concert food & beverages available in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard beginning at 5:30 pm. Click here for the menu. Where: Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $45, $55, $65, $85 with limited number of premiere $125 seats (plus applicable fees). Available online only here.
Henry Kapono Celebrates the Song of C&K 50 Year Anniversary – 2023 Lifetime Party Concert
“50 Years of the Songs of C&K Lifetime Party,” honors Henry Kapono’s remarkable five-decade journey in music, leadership, and community engagement. Celebrating both his influential C&K era and successful solo ventures, including Grammy-nominated works, Henry continues to support and nurture Hawaii’s music scene through his Henry Kapono Foundation. He will perform alongside Alx Kawakami, Johnny Valentine, and his all-star band featuring Gaylord Holomalia, Lopaka Colon, Matt Krahula, and Wendell Ching, with more special guests to be announced.
When: Saturday, Dec 9 2023, 7:30 pm. This concert is part of the MACC’s Ho‘onanea concert series so there will be pre-show festivities in the Yokouchi Pavilion courtyard, displays of Maui arts & crafts, with dinners, snacks and a full range of beverages available for purchase. Where: Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $15, $35, $45, $65, and a limited number of premium $125 seats (plus applicable fees). Tickets available online only here.
The Maui Pops Orchestra – Holiday Pops
Under the baton of Music Director James Durham, Maui Pops Orchestra invites you to ring in the holidays with a festive concert featuring 3-time Grammy® winner Kalani Pe’a. The Hawaiian singer/songwriter has also won multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards including in 2023 for his “Purple Hawaiian Christmas”. Music from this album will be featured with full orchestral backup, along with other holiday favorites. A special treat will be hula provided by members of award-winning Hālau o ka Hanu Lehua. Let the beauty of it all captivate you as we celebrate the spirit of the season – island style!
When: Sunday, Dec 10 2023, 3:00 pm. Pre-concert food & beverages will be available in the Yokouchi Pavilion, serving from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Click here for the menu. Where: Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $22, $35, $55, $65 (plus applicable fees). Available online only here.
YESSAH: IAM TONGI Returns to Hawaiʻi
Singer/songwriter Iam Tongi, winner of American Idol’s 21st season and beloved Hawaiʻi native, returns to Hawai’i! Hailed by reviewers as “one of the show’s strongest victors ever,” Iam made history as the first Pacific Islander to win American Idol and became the show’s most viral contestant when he astounded judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan with his heartfelt performances. This December, Rick Bartalini Presents invites the people of Hawai’i to come together and offer a warm welcome to Iam when he returns to Hawaiʻi with very special homecoming performances.
When: Tuesday, Dec 12 2023, 8:00 pm and Wednesday, Dec 13 2023, 8:00 pm. Pre-concert food & beverages available in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard beginning at 5:30 pm. Click here for the menu. Where: Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $64.75, $76.75 & $97.75 (plus applicable fees). Available online only here.
Alexander Academy Presents The Nutcracker
This enchanting full-length ballet adaptation of “The Nutcracker” is set to the timeless music of Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky and brought to life under the artistic direction of Absalon Figueroa and Amelia Nelson. The production features stunning costumes designed by Jennifer Oberg and her Sewing Hui, in collaboration with Alexander Academy. The ballet unfolds the magical story of Clara, a young girl who befriends a Nutcracker doll that comes to life on Christmas Eve. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure, battling the wicked Mouse King. Transformed into a Prince, the Nutcracker guides Clara to the enchanting Land of Snow and a forest filled with dancing snowflakes, before journeying to the Land of Sweets. There, they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and celebrate their victory over the rat army with an array of mesmerizing dances.
In a gesture of community support, Alexander Academy is conducting a Toy Drive fundraiser in response to the Maui wildfires. This initiative aims to bring holiday cheer to affected families. Contributions of new or gently used toys are welcomed and can be donated at Alexander Academy, located at 870 Hali’imaile Road, Makawao, or at the MACC’s front gate during the December 16th performances.
When: 2 performances on Saturday, Dec 16 2023, 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm. Pre-concert food & beverages available in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard beginning at 12:30 pm. Click here for the menu. Where: Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $30, $40, $50 (plus applicable fees) keiki 12 & under are half price, and only available online here.
Lōkahi – A Celebration of Maui
A special gathering of stars under the stars to support the Maui community after the devastating wildfires in Lahaina and Upcountry. Featuring Lukas Nelson, Jack Johnson (Solo & Acoustic), Nathaniel Rateliff, Paula Fuga, Lily Meola, with family & friends Donavon Frankenreiter, Promise Of The Real and more! A message from the event organizers & artists: “Watching the community across the islands of Hawaiʻi and beyond come together to support those in need, we were inspired to build on that sense of unity. We began to brainstorm ways we could support the community the best way we knew how – through music.”
“Recalling some of our favorite events of the past, connected with some of our immensely talented friends, and got to work. Lōkahi: oneness, community, harmony, unity. Lōkahi is the Hawaiian word for people coming together to take care of one another, uniting as one. Join us as we come together as a community to share an amazing night under the stars with an incredible lineup of talent. Lukas Nelson’s vision for Lōkahi was to create an evening of special performances and celebration with his Hawai’i music community. In the spirit of Lōkahi, uniting together to support your community, all of the performers have agreed to donate their fees to local Maui charities.”
When: Sunday, Dec 17 2023, 5:30 pm. Pre-concert food & beverages available in the A&B Amphitheater Lawn beginning at 4pm. Click here for the menu. Where: Where: A & B Amphitheater and Yokouchi Pavilion, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, 1 Cameron Way, Kahului 96732. Tickets: $55 (General Admission/No Seats Provided) $65, $85 (Reserved Seating) , & *$125 (Gold Circle) – all plus applicable fees. Available online only here. *Prices increase day of the show.*
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