KAKAAKO, Hawaii (KHON2) — The islands buzzed with activity this Halloween and KHON2 checked out some family-fun events to see how folks celebrated.
Ala Moana Center was bustling as families and their keiki put on their best costumes for a night of trick-or-treating — hundreds of businesses took part. Folks grooved along as a DJ hosted a dance party at centerstage.
“We normally go house to house, but this year we wanted to change it up a bit,” said Christy Yamamoto, whose son and daughter were dressed up as hamburgers.
It was not the usual day on the job for employees.
“I think seeing everybody’s costumes, everybody’s really creative, it’s fun,” Karina said. “I saw a lot of princesses, a lot of Anime costumes too. I saw burgers too, it was really cute.”
The annual Pumpkin Pa’ina was organized by One Love Ministries at SALT At Our Kakaako and the excitement was spook-tacular.
“Hammer of Thor! Happy Halloween! Can’t be too old to dress up, got to be Thor when you can,” said Brian Freeman. “With this hair, I thought it was super easy to dress up for it.”
Tons of carnival-themed games, face painting, costume contests and more were all part of the festivities.
“I don’t know if you’ve ever seen the meme with the Spidermans pointing at each other? That’s us,” said Brittney Benavente.
Parents said family fun events like these are a great, safe alternative to the more traditional trick-or-treating that happens in neighborhoods across the Islands.
“I mean, it’s good, the community brings everybody together. Great for the kids, especially cause we live in an apartment, so we don’t really go house-to-house, so even better,” Brian Benavente said.
“I think my favorite part of this is just spending time with family, seeing my little siblings have fun, you know, play the games,” said Tytan Sarono, a face painter for the evening.