10 Best Hawaiian Christmas Songs to Ignite Your Festive Aloha Spirit!

What Are the Best Hawaiian Christmas Songs?

The Best Hawaiian Christmas Songs:

• Mele Kalikimaka
• Numbah One Day of Christmas
• Santa’s Hula
• Kana Kaloka (Here Comes Santa Claus)
• Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei
• O Holy Night
• Christmas in the Sand
• Hawaiian Santa
• Christmas Island
• Christmas Luau

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Experience the enchantment of the holiday season with the mesmerizing melodies of Hawaiian Christmas songs.

Journey into a musical realm where festive cheer intertwines with tropical vibes, creating a unique and unforgettable Christmas ambiance. Allow these vibrant tunes to transport you to the shores of Hawaii, even if you can’t physically be there.

Whether you’re driving to a holiday gathering, adorning your home with twinkling lights, wrapping gifts, or indulging in a lively family dinner, these Hawaiian Christmas songs will be the perfect soundtrack for your celebrations.

Say goodbye to the repetitive tunes of yesteryears and embrace the refreshing joy that these melodic gems bring to your holiday festivities. Let the spirit and rhythm of Hawaii infuse your Christmas with a touch of exotic enchantment!

Experience the Magic of Hawaiian Christmas Songs

Indulge in the festive melodies of Hawaiian Christmas songs and let their enchanting rhythms transport you to a tropical paradise this holiday season.

Embrace the spirit of aloha and infuse your celebrations with a touch of aloha.

1. Mele Kalikimaka

Any list of best Hawaiian Christmas songs would be remiss without mentioning “Mele Kalikimaka.” This iconic track, crafted by Robert Alexander Anderson, was brought to life by Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters in 1950. Today, it’s a festive staple in Hawaiian holiday celebrations.

The song’s allure has led to countless renditions, blending verses in both English and Hawaiian. When the cheerful notes of “Mele Kalikimaka” fill the air, you’re instantly transported to a tropical holiday wonderland. For those not in the know, this delightful phrase translates to ‘Merry Christmas’ in Hawaiian. So, let its joyous melody spread the island holiday cheer!

2. Numbah One Day of Christmas

Experience the holiday season with a twist through “Numbah One Day of Christmas”. This renowned Hawaiian rendition of the classic “12 Days of Christmas” injects an island vibe by replacing traditional elements with unique Hawaiian items.

Picture 5 big fat pigs instead of 5 golden rings! Let the enchanting melodies transport you to a warm Hawaiian beach amidst chilly winter days. Make sure to include this song on your holiday playlist for a merry Hawaiian Christmas.

3. Santa’s Hula

Santa’s Hula is an incredibly cool song that captures the spirit of the holiday season. Sung by the renowned Hawaiian singer, Hilo Hattie, this delightful tune tells the story of Santa himself doing the hula dance.

It’s a song that always brings a smile to my face! If you’re looking for a way to add extra joy to your Christmas festivities, I highly recommend listening to Santa’s Hula. Trust me, this enchanting song will fill your holiday season with an irresistible Hawaiian flair!

4. Kana Kaloka (Here Comes Santa Claus)

One of the most beautiful Hawaiian Christmas songs that you should listen to this holiday season is “Kana Kaloka,” or the Hawaiian rendition of “Here Comes Santa Claus,” performed by Na Leo Pilimehana.

This song has a great beat for dancing along and can put everyone in a festive mood. It adds an island flair to your Christmas playlist, making it perfect for celebrating Christmas in Hawaii.

While specific details or background information about the song “Kana Kaloka” are not provided here, it’s worth adding to your holiday cheer!

5. Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei

“Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei” by the renowned Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau is a delightful melody that encapsulates the Hawaiian Christmas spirit. From the album bearing the same name, this track stands out with its enchanting harmony typical of the Makaha Sons, complemented by an exquisite guitar backdrop.

The lyrics paint a vivid image of a Hawaiian Christmas: think palm trees swaying gently, sun-kissed beaches, and the rhythmic dance of the hula. This song seamlessly fuses Hawaii’s relaxed and jubilant vibe with the festive mood of the holiday season.

If you’re on the hunt to spice up your holiday tunes with a dash of tropical zest, “Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei” is a top pick. Its harmonious blend of Hawaii’s distinct culture with the joyous holiday essence makes it an essential for those seeking to infuse their Christmas playlist with a unique, islander charm.

6. O Holy Night

“O Holy Night” is a classic Christmas song that has been performed by many artists over the years. Uncle Willie K’s rendition of the song adds a Hawaiian touch to the traditional melody. The song features Willie K’s soulful voice, accompanied by a beautiful guitar arrangement.

The Hawaiian influence is evident in the song’s instrumentation, which includes ukulele and steel guitar. The song captures the essence of Christmas in Hawaii, blending the holiday spirit with the island’s unique culture. Willie K’s version of “O Holy Night” is a must-listen for anyone looking to add a touch of Hawaiian flavor to their holiday playlist.

7. Christmas in the Sand

“Christmas In The Sand” by Colbie Caillat is the ultimate holiday escape. Prepare to be whisked away to a tropical paradise, where palm trees sway and the sand beneath your feet replace the traditional snow-covered scenery.

With Colbie Caillat’s soothing vocals and a catchy ukulele melody, this song brings a fresh and laid-back vibe to your Christmas celebrations. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a touch of tropical flair and make “Christmas In The Sand” a must-have on your holiday playlist.

8. Hawaiian Santa

“Hawaiian Santa” is a fun and upbeat song by The Brothers Cazimero that tells the story of Santa Claus in Hawaii. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat ukulele strumming, accompanied by the band’s signature harmonies. The lyrics of the song describe Santa Claus as a Hawaiian man who delivers presents on a surfboard instead of a sleigh.

The song captures the laid-back spirit of Hawaii, blending the holiday season with the island’s unique culture. “Hawaiian Santa” is a great addition to any holiday playlist, perfect for those who want to add a touch of tropical flair to their Christmas celebrations.

9. Christmas Island

Experience the magic of “Christmas Island”, a timeless Christmas song infused with a tropical twist by the legendary Leon Redbone. With his mesmerizing vocals and a captivating ukulele melody, Redbone transports you to an island paradise where Christmas is celebrated amidst swaying palm trees and sandy beaches instead of snow-covered landscapes.

This delightful tune effortlessly blends the holiday spirit with the laid-back essence of Hawaii, making it a must-have addition to your festive playlist. Add a touch of tropical flair to your Christmas celebrations with the enchanting “Christmas Island”.

10. Christmas Luau

“Christmas Luau” is a festive song by Na Leo Pilimehana that celebrates the holiday spirit in Hawaii. The song features the group’s signature harmonies, accompanied by a catchy ukulele melody. The lyrics of the song describe a Christmas celebration that is uniquely Hawaiian, with a luau feast and hula dancing.

The song captures the laid-back and joyful spirit of Hawaii, blending the holiday season with the island’s unique culture. “Christmas Luau” is a great addition to any holiday playlist, perfect for those who want to add a touch of tropical flair to their Christmas celebrations.

Traditional Hawaiian Christmas Greetings and Celebrations

The traditional Hawaiian Christmas greeting is “Mele Kalikimaka,” meaning “Merry Christmas” in Hawaiian. However, it’s also common to say “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” when celebrating the season in Hawaii.

During the holiday season, Hawaii is filled with decorations and festive cheer. Many people decorate their homes with lights, ornaments, and even tropical-themed Christmas trees. In addition to exchanging gifts, families and friends come together for special celebrations and feasts.

Hawaiian Christmas celebrations often include singing traditional songs like “Mele Kalikimaka.” These songs can be heard playing in the background while decorating the house, wrapping presents or enjoying a meal with loved ones.

Combining English and Hawaiian lyrics adds a unique touch to these well-known holiday tunes.

Overall, traditional Hawaiian Christmas greetings and celebrations embody the spirit of the holidays while embracing the culture and warmth of Hawaii.

Whether you’re spending your Christmas vacation on the beautiful islands or want to add some aloha spirit to your festivities at home, incorporating elements from this vibrant tradition can make your holiday season even merrier.

What Are Some Festive Activities and Events to Experience During Christmas on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Looking for the best festive events on big island during Christmas? Experience the magical Hawaii vibe at the Festival of Lights in Hilo, where you’ll find beautiful displays and performances. Head to Kailua-Kona for the Annual Christmas Parade, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and joyful dancing. Don’t miss out on the Magical Twinkle Light Boat Parade in Keauhou, where illuminated boats create a stunning spectacle.

Hawaiian Christmas Songs FAQs

What is a traditional Hawaiian Christmas?

A traditional Hawaiian Christmas involves families and communities coming together, often at beaches or backyards, for a festive luau or feast. Central to this celebration is the kalua pig, prepared using the ancient “kalua” method, which involves cooking the food in an underground oven called an “Imu”.

Does Hawaii decorate for Christmas?

Yes, Hawaii decorates for Christmas. Following Thanksgiving, Hawaiians usher in the festive season. While Christmas trees are imported for many residents, some even have trees growing near their homes. Additionally, a unique island touch involves creatively adorning palm trees for the holiday.

What is Santa called in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, Santa Claus is referred to as “Kanakaloka.” While many Christmas traditions in Hawaii mirror those on the mainland, they often come with a unique island flair.

What is Christmas called in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, “Christmas” is referred to as “Mele Kalikimaka,” a term popularized by Bing Crosby’s renowned song. Additionally, “Hau’oli Makahiki Hou” translates to “Happy New Year,” linking back to the traditional Makahiki Festival.

Hawaiian Christmas Songs Wrap Up

Hawaiian Christmas songs are a wonderful addition to your holiday playlist. With their island flair and unique cultural significance, they bring a joyful and festive atmosphere to the season.

Whether you’re listening to “Mele Kalikimaka” or other beloved tunes, these songs capture the spirit of Christmas in Hawaii and will fill your heart with holiday cheer. So take a break from the traditional carols and let the sounds of Hawaii transport you to a merrier Christmas celebration.

Want more Christmas in Hawaii content? Check out our guides across the islands. Christmas on Kauai, Christmas on Oahu, in Honolulu, Christmas on Maui, Christmas on the Big Island.