Community Resilience Shines at Third Annual Christmas in Pāhala

By Shai Lopez-Castaneda + The Pahala Town Lighted Christmas Parade Committee

The third annual Christmas in Pāhala was truly one to remember. The festivities began on Friday, December 5, with our community tree lighting event. The evening featured local vendors from around the island and performances by local groups, following a beautiful candlelight service and the official lighting of the town Christmas tree.

The celebration continued on Saturday, December 6, with the lighted Christmas parade. Despite the ash fallout from the ongoing Kīlauea eruption, the conditions didn't stop parade-goers from spreading holiday cheer. The community spirit was clear: the parade must go on!

Local businesses, groups, and organizations participated in the procession, led by Grand Marshal Dane Shibuya. To conclude the event, Santa and his buddies sleighed their way here from the North Pole to share their Christmas joy.

It was a blessed two-day event enjoyed by local families. Have a happy New Year! Planning for Christmas in Pāhala 2026 will begin soon.