3. Aloha Festivals – Oahu

The Buzz -- What began in 1946 as a week-long celebration of local culture has evolved into this extensive tribute to Hawaiian heritage, a statewide festival that touches all the islands. History, traditional music, and dance figure into the festivities, along with contests, church services, and the crowning of the royal court. Some of the biggest events are street festivals in Downtown and in Waikiki – which feature arts and crafts, food, and entertainment – and the Floral Parade, a vibrant spectacle of color and scent that begins in Ala Moana Park and runs to Kapiolani Park.