New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Oʻahu to Welcome 2026

There’s something unforgettable about welcoming the New Year in Hawaiʻi. Warm ocean breezes, fireworks over the water, and celebrations that range from lively beach parties to family-friendly daytime events all come together to create a one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve experience.

Whether you want to watch fireworks light up Waikīkī Beach, celebrate with keiki at a noon countdown, or enjoy live entertainment across the island, Oʻahu offers plenty of ways to welcome 2026. Staying in Waikīkī puts you right in the center of the action, making it easy to enjoy the night and head back to comfort when the celebrations wind down.

At Waikiki Resort Hotel, you are perfectly positioned to experience it all. Located just a 1-minute walk from Waikiki Beach, we offer you the most convenient home base for the night’s biggest festivities.

Here is your guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Oahu to welcome 2026.

Where to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Oʻahu

Waikīkī Beach New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Midnight | December 31

The 2026 Waikīkī New Year’s Fireworks are officially on. Sponsored by members of the Waikīkī Improvement Association, this stunning midnight fireworks display will launch from a barge just offshore of Waikīkī Beach, filling the sky with vibrant color as the New Year begins.

Visible along the entire Waikīkī shoreline, the show is designed to celebrate unity and togetherness through the Hawaiian value of lōkahi. Expect brilliant jewel tones, shimmering silver and gold effects, and a grand finale that feels worthy of a world-class destination.

How to Watch:

  • From the Sand: Since you are staying at Waikiki Resort Hotel, you don’t need to worry about parking or traffic. Simply take a leisurely 1-minute walk down to the sand to claim your spot.
  • From Your Room: For a more private and exclusive experience, book one of our Ocean View rooms. You can enjoy the breathtaking finale and toast to 2026 from the comfort of your own balcony.
  • Listen In: Enhance the visual experience by tuning your radio to 105.9 The Wave FM for an exclusive soundtrack synchronized to the fireworks.

Wai Kai New Year’s Eve Party
8:00 pm to 1:00 am | December 31

Located at Wai Kai Lagoon, this property-wide New Year’s Eve celebration offers an energetic yet family-friendly atmosphere. The evening features live entertainment by Hawaiʻi’s Finest, dining options, late-night activities, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

Fireworks by HI Pyro will illuminate the lagoon, with lawn seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Lawn access is free, though food vendors are limited and outside food and beverages are not permitted.

This is a great option if you are looking for a lively celebration outside of Waikīkī while still enjoying a festive island atmosphere.

Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events on Oʻahu

Not every New Year’s Eve celebration has to happen at midnight. Oʻahu offers several daytime and early evening events that are perfect for families and younger children.

New Year’s at Noon at the Children’s Discovery Center
December 31

This is Hawaiʻi’s only New Year’s Eve party designed especially for kids. Families can celebrate early with music, activities, and a balloon drop at noon. It’s a fun way for keiki to enjoy the excitement of New Year’s Eve without staying up late.

Noon Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop at Town Center of Mililani
10:00 am to 1:00 pm | December 31

Experience a local twist on the famous ball drop! The "Pineapple Drop" features a morning of cultural entertainment, including Tahitian dance by Rahiti Hawai‘i, Chinese Lion Dance, and Taiko drumming. The pineapple drops at 12:00 PM noon, followed by a headline performance by Likkle Jordee.

This daytime celebration is lively, welcoming, and perfect for families looking to start the New Year together.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Dave & Buster’s
December 31

Dave & Buster’s offers two ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Families can enjoy an early, kid-friendly party starting at 4:00 pm with unlimited games, a Power Card, and a video ball drop. Later in the evening, adults can opt for an all-night celebration featuring premium drinks, a chef-curated banquet, and a midnight champagne toast.

 

Other Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Oʻahu

Reserve a table at a restaurant or bar hosting a New Year’s Eve dinner or countdown. Many restaurants offer special prix fixe menus for the holiday
Attend a traditional luau with cultural performances and island cuisine before the fireworks begin
Book a New Year’s Eve cruise for ocean views, dining, and a unique perspective of the fireworks

Many of these options book up early, so planning ahead is key.

 

Tips for Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Hawaiʻi

  • Arrive early to fireworks viewing areas, especially in Waikīkī
  • Use rideshare services or walk when possible, as road closures and traffic are common
  • Bring water and light layers for the evening breeze
  • Follow local safety guidance and posted event rules
  • Make dinner reservations in advance if dining out

 

Where to Stay for New Year’s Eve in Waikīkī

Spending New Year’s Eve in Waikīkī is even better when your hotel is just steps from the celebration. Waikiki Resort Hotel offers a comfortable and convenient home base near the beach, dining, shopping, and major New Year’s Eve events.

Guests enjoy spacious rooms and suites, friendly staff, and amenities designed to make holiday travel easy. When you book direct, you can take advantage of special offers that make your New Year getaway even more rewarding.

If you are planning to welcome 2026 in Hawaiʻi, staying in the heart of Waikīkī allows you to celebrate fully and unwind with ease once the fireworks fade.