Labor Day falls on the first Monday in September, and serves as a final hurrah of the summer before the crowds die down for the shoulder season that typically lasts until the holidays. Although you often won’t notice the change of the seasons in Hawaii – we don’t have the climate for leaves to change color and there’s only snow at the very upper elevations of the volcanoes – people will notice the end of summer, if nothing else by the change of the date on the calendar. It’s as good of an excuse as any to get out and enjoy a long weekend with your loved ones.
Labor Day weekend will usually have summer-time temperatures, often in the upper 80′s to low 90′s, with fewer showers than in the winter/rainy season. As always, expect slightly cooler weather the higher you go from sea level, and the windward sides of all islands are generally a tad rainier than leeward sides, where you’ll find the most sun.
As in most other places, Labor Day is a time for family and friends to get together to enjoy one last holiday before the summer ends and kids go back to school. Warm weather makes it a perfect time for a day at the beach or to take a hike outdoors. Try out a new sport like surfing. Or pack a picnic lunch and head out for a drive.
Because it is a federal holiday, keep in mind that government offices will often be closed. Camping permits for long weekends like the Labor Day weekend are often sold out in advance, so plan ahead if you’re hoping to get a spot at a popular campground.
9/2 & 9/3 – C&K “Back in the Day” Concert Series – Two nights of live music, food, and fireworks (both nights!) at the Great Lawn of the Hilton Hawaiian Village hotel in Waikiki. Details here. (Oahu)
9/3 & 9/4 – Okinawan Festival - Thousands come out to this two-day festival at Kapiolani Park over Labor Day weekend for the entertainment and food, which includes the Oki dog, sushi, yakitori, and of course, the freshly fried andagi. There is a even a bon dance held on Saturday evening. Details here. (Oahu)
9/3 – Maui Masters Channel Swim - Watch as amazing athletes take on the open ocean in this race where swimmers in teams of six start at the island of Lanai and arrive on Maui’s Kaanapali coast! Details here. (Lanai/Maui)
9/3 & 9/4 – 37th Annual Parker Ranch Round Up Club Labor Day Rodeo - The historic Parker Ranch was founded in 1847 and celebrates their Paniolo (cowboy) heritage with this annual weekend of rodeo events, entertainment, food booths and family fun. A horse auction will also be held on Sunday. Details here. (Big Island)
9/4 – Kauai Marathon & Half Marathon - This popular race starts and ends in the town of Poipu on the south side of the island of Kauai. Cheer on the athletes or enter yourself! A carbo-load luau, entertainment, and talks by famous runners are all included in the weekend’s festivities. Details here. (Kauai)
Enjoy a video of a live Cecilio & Kapono performance of the song “We’re All Alone”
