Most cities around the world celebrate Pride Month in June, but in Honolulu, the rainbow carpet is rolled out every October. With a star-studded lineup of queer celebrities and drag royalty, exciting events, engaging activities and workshops, awesome late-night dance parties and the iconic parade in Waikīkī, it’s a celebration of love, identity, and activism for the LGBTQIA+ community. Read on to learn more about the history of Pride in Honolulu and all of the incredible events planned for 2024.
Why October?
In Honolulu, Pride Month is celebrated in October to coincide with LGBT History Month, National Coming Out Day, and Spirit Day, all culminating in the Honolulu Pride Parade & Festival on October 19.
Everything kicks off October 6 at 6 a.m. with a Kapaemahu Ceremony honoring Hawaiian cultures and ancestors, held at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue in Waikīkī. Other highlights of the 40 events throughout the month include movie mornings, board game nights, and the third annual Pride Idol competition.
Queer History in Hawaii
Same-same (Aikane) relationships and transgender people (Mahu) have been accepted and celebrated in Hawaiian culture since ancient times. Polynesian culture embraces the integration of male and female gods and the concept of spiritual duality. In fact, the Hawaiian language doesn’t utilize female or male pronouns like “he” or “she”. This rich history and true essence of the aloha spirit has made Hawaiʻi and Honolulu a haven for queer folks for generations.
The first Honolulu Pride Parade took place on June 30, 1974, as a small march of 25 people from the corner of McCully Street and Kalakaua to Queen’s Surf Beach. Today, thousands gather to celebrate all over the city, with many events within walking distance of Prince Waikiki.
Pride Events in Honolulu
The 2024 Honolulu Pride Weekend kicks off on Thursday, October 17, with a cabaret performance by Vincent Rodriguez III. Then, on Friday, October 18, legendary comedian Kathy Griffin will perform her show, My Life on the PTSD-List, at The Hawaii Theatre, followed by dancing into the evening at Scarlet. Saturday, October 19 is highlighted by the fabulous Honolulu Pride Parade, which kicks off this year at 4 p.m. This sunset parade is free to all, and there’s no better place to watch than here at Prince Waikiki. The parade route goes right along Ala Moana Boulevard in front of the hotel, so you can cheer and wave right from here, or even join in as the parade goes along!
After the parade, it’s time for the festival! This year, the Honolulu Pride Festival will be headlined by the star of Drag Race Philippines and RuPaulʻs Drag Race UK vs The World, Marine Summers, and the Taiwanese-American winner of the sixteenth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Nymphia Wind. This party is going to go well into the night with the Official After Party at Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand starting at 9 p.m.
Where to Celebrate
The best place to take it all in? Right here at Prince Waikiki. We’re located right on the parade route and close to many of the signature Honolulu Pride events. Make us your home base for Pride, and be welcomed at our inclusive spaces. Indulge in unbeatable ocean scenes, and a hip, upscale atmosphere, with endless activities to make your stay unforgettable. View our offers and start planning your escape to Prince Waikiki.
