The Lights are on for all to see until January 6. The centerpiece of this year's display is always the enormous Hawaiian themed Santa and Mrs. Claus, kicking back barefooted by the water. There's something uniquely tropical and delightful about Christmas time in Honolulu even without the cold and snow. Honolulu's 23rd Annual Holiday Wreath Contest winners, are also displayed in the interior halls of the Hale. Every year has a different theme, and this year's is "Holiday Heroes," which you will see is pretty much open to interpretation.

Finally, if you haven't had your fill of palm trees and Christmas lights, Waikiki always serves up some authentic holiday events -- particularly along Kalakaua Avenue. Sheila, over at Go Visit Hawaii, breaks down the plethora of activity going down in the touristic center of Hawaii. Most of the noteworthy offerings in Waikiki involve gorging on Hawaiian cuisine at the various hotel restaurants and cafés, but some interesting activities are available in the coming week, including a Santa appearance and photoshoot at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach on the 23rd. Be sure to practice your Hawaiian and wish your friends and family a warm "Mele Kalikimaka" (Merry Christmas)!