HONOLULU (KHON2) — The holidays have arrived at Ala Moana Center with the return of its beloved Big Santa, a Honolulu, Hawaiʻi tradition that has greeted shoppers for more than 60 years.
Standing 50 feet tall above the Makai Parking Deck, Big Santa is made from 2,500 square feet of fiberglass and nearly 2,000 pounds of resin.
His bright smile marks the start of the holiday season and welcomes residents and visitors to the world’s largest open-air shopping center.
Here are the opportunities coming your way to celebrate this holiday season from Ala Moana Center
Santa’s Surf Shack
Families can meet Santa from Nov. 21 through Dec. 24 at Santa’s Surf Shack on Level 4, Ho‘okipa Terrace. The island-inspired photo spot features surfboards and tropical décor.
Pet Photo Nights will return on select evenings for families who want to include their cats or dogs in holiday portraits.
Reservations are recommended, and photo packages are available at Where Is Santa – Ala Moana Center.
Letters to Big Santa
Keiki can share their wishes by visiting the Big Santa Mailbox on Level 3 in the Mauka Wing near the Children’s Play Area. Complimentary stationery and envelopes are provided. The mailbox is open from Nov. 3 through Dec. 24.
Holiday gift with purchase
Guests who spend $500 or more between Nov. 3 and Dec. 24 can receive a limited-edition Ala Moana Center tote bag and Big Santa plush keychain, while supplies last. Receipts must be redeemed at Guest Services. But remember that each guest is limited to one gift and must be 18 or older.
Black Friday shopping
The Center will open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28. This will include select stores opening earlier.
Here’s a sampling of what retailers will offer for some of their best deals of the year, including:
- Aloha Lane: 30% off entire purchase.
- Big Island Candies: Free tote bag and gift with $125 purchase.
- CocoNene: 20% off storewide.
- Hawai‘i’s Finest: 40%–80% off select items.
- Kamukura Ramen: $5 Shaka ramen special.
- Local Motion Hawai‘i: 40% off.
- • Soha Living:
- 30% off from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.
- 25% off from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- 20% off from 1p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Tori Richard: 20% off storewide plus an extra 20% off sale items.
Dozens of other retailers will feature limited-time offers, free gifts and holiday exclusives. A full list will be available here.
Holiday entertainment
Festive performances will light up Centerstage and the ‘Ewa Wing Stage throughout the season:
- Holiday Hula Show: Daily at 5 p.m. beginning Nov. 28, featuring Hawaiian and classic holiday songs with a snowfall finale.
- Keiki Hula Show: Sundays at 1 p.m., showcasing young dancers.
- Pau Hana Music Series: Daily at 5:30 p.m., highlighting Hawai‘i musicians.
- Community Performances: Choirs, hālau, school groups and community organizations will share music and dance through December.
Community giving
Ala Moana Center will host several ways to give back this season. The Salvation Army Angel Tree and Red Kettle will be located near Macy’s from Nov. 17 through Dec. 23. Guests can select tags to provide gifts for keiki and kūpuna or make donations.
The Giving Machine opens Nov. 22 at Center Court. The interactive “vending machine” allows shoppers to donate meals, clothing and school supplies for local and global charities.
Winter Wonderland and Christmas trees
The Winter Wonderland pop-up bar returns from Nov. 28 through Dec. 24 from 5 p.m. to midnight. Visitors can enjoy holiday cocktails and festive décor with friends and family.
Starting Nov. 22, Christmas Hawaiʻi will sell fresh trees at the Atkinson Trolley Depot. The Tajiri family marks its 50th year offering Noble, Nordmann, Fraser, Douglas and Grand firs, along with wreaths and stands.
For event details and holiday updates, click here or follow @alamoanacenter on Instagram and Facebook.
Ala Moana Center’s hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with extended hours beginning Dec. 5. The Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.