Maui transforms into a holiday wonderland in December, filled with magical events, cultural celebrations, and festive activities. Whether you’re looking for unique local experiences, holiday shopping, or seasonal traditions, this guide has everything you need to make your Maui holiday unforgettable.

🎄 Special Holiday Events 🎄

The Nutcracker Ballet
Experience the magic of The Nutcracker, performed by Maui’s talented young ballerinas in dazzling costumes. A holiday tradition for all ages!
📍 Maui Arts & Cultural Center
December 15, 21, 23

Santa Sail
Set sail with Santa and his elves for a festive cruise along Maui’s coastline. Enjoy hot cocoa, holiday stories, and breathtaking views of humpback whales. Set sail at 8am - 10am.
📍Alii Nui
December 21 & 23

December 16
Holiday Marketplace & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Celebrate the season at the Grand Wailea’s Holiday Marketplace featuring over 30 local vendors offering Made-on-Maui gifts. Shop from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, then watch the magic unfold during the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 PM, with live entertainment and a countdown to the official lighting around 7:00 PM.
📍 Grand Wailea Resort

December 21
Hanau Ke Ali’i – A King is Born
Celebrate Christmas with a mesmerizing hula performance featuring over 100 dancers, vocalists, and musicians sharing the story of Christmas through mele and movement.
📍 Maui Arts & Cultural Center | 6:30 PM

December 21
Santa’s Arrival on Kaanapali Beach
Watch in awe as Santa sails in by Sea Maui catamaran, bringing holiday cheer to the beautiful shores of Kā‛anapali Beach. Keiki and 'ohana are welcome to gather at the beach fronting Hula Grill and Monkeypod Kitchen.
📍 Kaanapali Beach | 10am

December 24
Santa’s Arrival on Wailea Beach
Watch Santa paddle ashore on Wailea Beach in an outrigger canoe, bringing holiday cheer to kids and families.
📍 Wailea Beach | Morning

December 25
Christmas Day Luau
Relax and enjoy a festive luau featuring delicious island-inspired cuisine and live entertainment, all with an oceanfront view.
📍 Wailea Marriott

December 27
Kihei 4th Friday Town Party
End the year with a bang at Kihei’s lively street party! Shop local vendors, enjoy delicious food, check out classic cars, and groove to live music.
📍 Azeka Mall, Kihei | Evening

December 31
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise
Ring in the New Year aboard a luxury catamaran with an open bar, light bites, and front-row seats to a spectacular fireworks display.
📍 Various departure locations | 3-hour cruise

🌺 Weekly & Ongoing Events 🌺

Mondays & Wednesdays
Lei Po’o Making
Create a stunning Hawaiian lei po’o (flower crown) with local flowers and ferns. Perfect for all ages!
📍 The Shops of Wailea | 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Tuesdays & Thursdays

Polynesian Show
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a captivating performance of hula and Polynesian dances.
📍 The Shops of Wailea | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Tuesdays

Coconut Husking
Learn the art of coconut husking and discover how Hawaiians used this versatile plant in everyday life.
📍 The Shops of Wailea | 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Thursdays

Coconut Frond Weaving
Weave coconut fronds into traditional Hawaiian baskets, mats, or toys.
📍 The Shops of Wailea | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Fridays

Papa Hula
Learn the graceful art of hula dancing in this interactive and fun lesson.
📍 The Shops of Wailea | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Saturdays

Upcountry Farmers Market
Shop fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts at Maui’s largest farmers market.
📍 Kulamalu Town Center, Pukalani | 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Sundays

Maui Gift & Craft Fair
Browse handmade items and local crafts at West Maui’s biggest weekly market.
📍 Lahaina Gateway Center | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Looking Ahead: January 2025
January 2-5

Sentry Golf Tournament
Kick off the New Year with Maui’s premier PGA Tour event, featuring the world’s top golfers competing in Kapalua.
📍 Kapalua Golf Course

From spectacular concerts to cultural traditions, holiday shopping, and festive luaus, December 2024 on Maui promises endless ways to make magical memories.
Mele Kalikimaka and Hauʻoli Makahiki Hou!