Maui’s Magical December 2023: Your Ultimate Holiday Guide
December in Maui is a time of vibrant festivities and unique celebrations, blending the island’s tropical charm with the joyous spirit of the holidays. As the year winds down, Maui lights up with an array of events that promise unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors.
From the gentle sway of palm trees to the lively rhythms of Hawaiian music, the island transforms into a festive paradise. Imagine crafting holiday wreaths with native flora, watching Santa arrive by outrigger canoe, or enjoying world-class performances under starlit skies – Maui in December offers all this and more.
Imagine creating holiday wreaths with native flora, watching Santa arrive by outrigger canoe, or enjoying world-class performances under starlit skies – this is December in Maui. From the lively resorts of Kaanapali to the serene landscapes of Upcountry Maui, every corner of the island offers unique festivities.
This guide takes you through Maui’s diverse regions, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the island. Whether attending a traditional hula show, participating in a lei-making workshop, or enjoying live music at a local venue, each event embodies the essence of the aloha spirit.
Prepare to embrace the holiday season in a truly island-style, as we unveil Maui’s December 2023 events. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of this special time on the island!
What to Do in Maui in December 2023 | Holiday & Christmas Events in Maui 2023
DECEMBER 1 – Dashing Through the Sea: A Holiday Celebration
Location: Maui Ocean Center
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
The Maui Ocean Center will have a festive evening under the sea! This special event features local gift vendors, live entertainment, fun games, face painting, and a unique Holiday Experience in the Sphere Theater. Don’t miss exploring the captivating aquarium exhibits. Plus, enjoy a special 20% discount at Maui Ocean Treasures (some exclusions apply).
Book your tickets now at mauioceancenter.com/reservations
December 1 – Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Join the 2nd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring live music, Santa visits, and local artisans. An evening to honor the Lahaina Community and celebrate the holiday season. More info
December 1-3 & 8-10 – Kihei Winter Wonderland
Location: 455 South Kihei Road, Nona Lani Cottages
Experience a magical Winter Wonderland in Kihei, featuring enchanting holiday decor, a meet-and-greet with Hawaiian Santa, and delightful treats from No Ka ‘Oi Kitchen. Perfect for family fun and holiday spirit. Adults $10, children $5, free for under 4 and 65+. More info
December 1-3 – Outdoor Movie Night: Madagascar / Penguins of Madagascar
Location: Whalers Village, Ka’anapali
Kick off December with a fun-filled movie weekend featuring “Madagascar” and “Penguins of Madagascar.” Showings start 30 minutes after sunset. More info
December 1, 8, 15, 22 – Holiday Wreath Workshops
Location: Hui Noeau Create unique holiday wreaths using native plants and flowers, guided by renowned lei maker Rose Bailey. A delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit. More info
December 1-10 – The Reluctant Elf
Location: ProArts Playhouse, Kihei Enjoy a family-friendly holiday adventure filled with your favorite seasonal songs. A joyous celebration perfect for all ages. More info
December 2 – ART NIGHT AT THE SHOPS
Location: The Shops at Wailea
Experience a vibrant evening of art and culture from 5-8 pm. More info
December 2 – JAZZ AT THE SHOPS – ROCK HENDRICKS
Location: The Shops at Wailea
Don’t miss the special jazz performance by Rock Hendricks from 5:30-7 pm. More info
December 2 – ART MAUI 2023 ONE FOOT FORWARD: SELECTIONS FROM MAUI COUNTY ARTISTS
Location: The Shops at Wailea
Discover stunning artworks by Maui County artists from 5-9 pm. More info
December 2 – St. Joseph ELC Christmas Country Store
Location: St. Joseph’s, 1294 Makawao Ave., Makawao, HI
Get into the holiday spirit at St. Joseph’s Christmas Country Store. Find unique gifts like homemade jams, jellies, and more while supporting local artisans in Makawao.
December 2 – Hui Holidays Santa’s Workshop
Location: Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, 2841 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, HI
Join a festive family event at Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center. Enjoy a day filled with art, music, and holiday shopping. Meet Santa, engage in keiki art activities, and immerse in local Maui culture. More info
December 2 -21: FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA In Maui
Location: The Shops at Wailea, Middle Valley – Lower Level
Enjoy free photos with Santa on Maui during select days, with each canned good donation benefiting the Maui Food Bank. Santa’s elf will also hand out cookies from Honolulu Cookie Company. More info
Maui Santa Photo Schedule:
Friday, November 24 – noon-2pm
Saturday, November 25 – 5-7pm
Wednesday, November 29 – 4-7pm
Saturday, December 2 – 4-7pm
Wednesday, December 6 – 4-7pm
Saturday, December 9 – 4-7pm
Wednesday, December 13 – 4-7pm
Saturday, December 16 – 4-7pm
Wednesday, December 20 – 4-7pm
Thursday, December 21– 4-7pm
December 5th – Friends of Haleakalā National Park
Location: Summit District, Haleakalā National Park
Participate in a service activity at the park’s plant nursery from 9:00 am to noon. Help care for rare, endemic plants with the National Park Service volunteers. Reservations required. More info
December 7-15th Hanukkah at the Fairmont Kea Lani
Location: Lobby Mezzanine, Fairmont Kea Lani
Join the nightly menorah lighting celebration in honor of Hanukkah. 5:30PM – 6:30PM. More info
DECEMBER 07 – WAYNE NEWTON: UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului Experience the iconic Wayne Newton live, performing his signature hits. An unforgettable evening of music. More info
December 8-10 – Outdoor Movie Night: The Santa Clause / Arthur Christmas
Location: Whalers Village, Ka’anapali
Get into the holiday spirit with “The Santa Clause” and “Arthur Christmas.” More info
DECEMBER 08 – THE KINGSTON TRIO
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului Rediscover the timeless music of The Kingston Trio in their national tour. A treat for folk music enthusiasts. More info
December 9 – Waikapu Street Fair
Location: Waikapu Gardens, Ulu Kanu Street
Explore the Waikapu Street Fair for a selection of local vendors, food trucks, and handmade goods. Enjoy the Maui High Choir caroling and support local businesses in a vibrant community atmosphere.
December 9th – South Maui Gardens Music & Food Night
Location: South Maui Gardens
Every 2nd Saturday, including December 9th, enjoy a free event from 5 pm – 8 pm. Delight in food from various vendors, live music by the Maui Community Band, and family-friendly activities in a garden setting. More info
December 9 – Haleakalā Waldorf School Holiday Faire
Location: Haleakala Waldorf School, 4160 L Kula Rd, Kula, HI
Celebrate the season at the Haleakalā Waldorf School Holiday Faire. Experience live entertainment, a silent auction, holiday crafts, children’s games, and delicious food in a picturesque setting. More info
December 9 – Waihe’e School Winterfest
Location: Waihee Elementary School, 2125 Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku
Join the Waihe’e School Winterfest for a day of family fun. Shop local, enjoy tasty food, participate in a silent auction, and engage in kid-friendly activities. More info
DECEMBER 09 – HENRY KAPONO CELEBRATES THE SONGS OF C&K – 50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului Join Henry Kapono in a celebratory concert marking his illustrious 50-year career. A night of iconic Hawaiian music. More info
DECEMBER 10 – MAUI POPS ORCHESTRA – HOLIDAY POPS
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului The Maui Pops Orchestra, with Grammy Award-winning singer Kalani Pe’a, presents a holiday-themed concert. A joyful musical celebration. More info
December 12 and 13 – YESSAH: IAM TONGI Returns to Hawaii
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului Kahuku native and American Idol winner Iam Tongi debuts in Maui with his remarkable vocals. A must-see performance. More info
December 15 – WHALE SEASON OFFICIALLY BEGINS
Location: Waters around Maui Nui The official start of the whale watching season. A perfect time for nature lovers to spot these magnificent creatures.
December 15 – The Steve Grimes “Duo”: A Concert to Benefit Maui Wildfire Victims
Location: Pro Arts Playhouse, Kihei Support Maui wildfire relief while enjoying music from Steve Grimes, renowned guitar maker and musician. More info
December 15-17 – Outdoor Movie Night: Fred Claus / The Polar Express
Location: Whalers Village, Ka’anapali
Enjoy a magical movie weekend with “Fred Claus” and “The Polar Express.” More info
DECEMBER 16 – ALEXANDER ACADEMY PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului Experience a full-length ballet of “The Nutcracker,” featuring Maui’s talented dancers and creatives. A magical holiday tradition. More info
December 17 – Lokahi: A Celebration of Maui
Location: Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kahului
A music event at 5:30 pm featuring an all-star lineup.
December 17 –Ahren Belisle
Location: Da Playground
Canadian comedian Ahren Belisle performs at 8:00 pm. More Info
December 17th, 22nd, 23rd – Santa Sail
Location: Waters off of Maui
Join a festive afternoon sail with Santa, complete with hot cocoa, treats, and holiday stories. Perfect for a unique Christmas experience in Hawaii, with a chance for whale encounters. 2:00PM – 4:00PM. More info
December 22 – Stormwater Maui Keiki Activity Day at the Maui Ocean Center
Location: Maui Ocean Center, 192 Ma’alaea Rd, Wailuku, HI
An educational and interactive day for kids at the Maui Ocean Center, focusing on environmental awareness and stormwater management. Learn about coastal ecosystems and pollution prevention while enjoying fun activities. More info
December 22 – Jason Arcilla Live Performance
Location: Molokini Garden at The Grand Wailea
Enjoy an evening with Maui native and “The Voice” contestant, Jason Arcilla. Doors open at 6 pm with the show starting at 6:30 pm. Tickets include General Admission ($40) and VIP Admission ($100). More info
December 22-24 – Outdoor Movie Night: The Grinch / Elf
Location: Whalers Village, Ka’anapali
Celebrate the days leading up to Christmas with “The Grinch” and “Elf.” More info
December 23 – Kanekoa: Make Any Kine Christmas
Location: Pro Arts Playhouse, Kihei
An evening of Hawaiian jam-rock music at 7:30 pm. More Info
December 24 – Santa Arrives by Outrigger Canoe
Location: Polo Beach
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at 12:00 pm. More Info
December 29-31 – Outdoor Movie Night: Frozen / Frozen II
Location: Whalers Village, Ka’anapali
End the month with a delightful double feature of “Frozen” and “Frozen II.” More info
Maui Holiday Guide 2023: Unforgettable Family-Friendly Events and Festivities
As the festive season approaches, Maui transforms into a holiday haven, offering an array of enchanting events perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. Whether you’re searching for ‘what to do in Maui for Christmas 2023’ or seeking ‘family-friendly holiday events in Maui’, the island’s diverse celebrations cater to all. From the magical Kihei Winter Wonderland to the melodious notes of Jason Arcilla at Molokini Garden, each event promises unique holiday memories. Join the community in festive gatherings like the Hanukkah celebration at the Fairmont Kea Lani or indulge in the seasonal spirit with Santa Sails and live music nights.
This December, Maui becomes a mosaic of joyous events, making it the ideal destination for those wondering about ‘events in Maui for the holidays.’ Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, relish the local flavors, and experience the aloha spirit in every celebration. Maui’s holiday events are not just occasions but gateways to creating lasting memories and cherishing the joy of the season. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of Maui’s festive magic and make your holiday season in 2023 unforgettable.
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