‘Ohana Weekend - October 16th to 18th, 2026

PARENTS AND FAMILIES - BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE FOR 'OHANA WEEKEND.

Parents and family members - YOU must register FOR any 'OHANA WEEKEND EVENTS you wish to participate in.

DO NOT PURCHASE A TICKET FOR YOUR HPU STUDENT - MOST OF THE 'OHANA WEEKEND EVENTS ARE FREE FOR HPU STUDENTS, AND ANY TICKETS STUDENTS NEED TO PURCHASE WILL BE COMMUNICATED TO STUDENTS SEPARATELY.

Aloha HPU families, and welcome to 'Ohana Weekend! 

We are absolutely thrilled to invite you back to Hawai'i Pacific University for an extraordinary weekend dedicated entirely to reconnecting with your student and immersing yourself in our vibrant university community. Falling right around midterms, this special occasion is the perfect time to visit, surround your student with love and encouragement, and celebrate all they have accomplished so far this semester. Whether you are coming to catch up over a meal, explore the beauty of Oʻahu, or simply show your student your unwavering support, we have curated a diverse schedule of activities designed to create lasting memories for your entire 'Ohana.

Throughout the weekend, you will have the opportunity to dive headfirst into HPU’s rich campus culture while getting to know the dedicated faculty, staff, and fellow families who make up our extended community. From on-campus activities to off-campus outings, there is something for all HPU families to enjoy. Beyond all the excitement, 'Ohana Weekend is a celebration of the vital role you play in your student’s journey and success. We cannot wait to open our doors to you, share in these unforgettable moments, and welcome you back to HPU for an amazing 'Ohana Weekend! 

Registrations are via Eventbrite. Some will have a small fee associated with covering cost and reserve participation.  

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026  

• Windward O'ahu Sights & Snack Tour. Meet in front of Old Spaghetti Factory at Aloha Tower Marketplace at 7:45 am, depart at 8:00 am
  • Join HPU Senior Vice President and Provost Alan Shoho for a memorable morning exploring some of Oʻahu’s most iconic sights and local flavors. Along the way, you'll enjoy panoramic views from Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout, buy some famous malasadas from Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop in Kailua, relax at Kailua or Waimānalo Beach, and enjoy breakfast/brunch at a favorite Hawaiʻi Kai restaurant. Time permitting, we'll make an optional stop at Waiola Shave Ice for a sweet treat before returning to downtown Honolulu. Please note that the ticket does not cover food; you will have the chance to purchase your own snacks and meals at these locations.
• 'Iolani Palace Special Tour. Meet in front of Old Spaghetti Factory at Aloha Tower Marketplace at 12:15 PM, depart at 12:30 PM
  • Join our Associate Professor of History, Dr. Douglas Askman, as he guides parents and students on a private tour of 'Iolani Palace, the only official royal palace in the United States. Combining his expertise as both an educator and 'Iolani Palace docent, Professor Askman offers a one-of-a-kind perspective that goes far beyond a traditional tour. You'll gain deeper insight into Hawaiʻi's history, the Hawaiian Kingdom, and the significance of the Palace. Best of all, this private tour has been reserved exclusively for HPU families and students, so our group will have the Palace largely to ourselves during our scheduled tour. This is an experience you simply can't get on a standard Palace tour!
• Tacos 'n Trivia Night in Sunset Ballroom from 5:30 pm - 7 pm.  
  • Join the Office of Student Engagement for a fun-filled evening at the Aloha Tower Marketplace's Sunset Ballroom on Friday, October 16th, from 5:30 pm - 7 pm! Bring your 'ohana, enjoy delicious tacos, and join a family-friendly kickoff mixer featuring tacos with HPU faculty and staff, followed by an epic trivia game. Teams will battle it out for bragging rights and exciting prizes. We apologize in advance, our food vendor for this event cannot accommodate serious allergies to food. There will be meat tacos and vegan tacos only. 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026                 

• Pickleball at Mother Waldron Park Pickleball Courts from 8 am - 11am
  • Time: 8 am - 11 am
  • Location: Mother Waldron Park Pickleball Courts, 537 Coral St, Honolulu, HI 96813
  • Join the fun and hit the court with your student and the HPU Pickleball Club! Whether you are a seasoned player or trying the game for the first time, this is a perfect way to share some laughs, a little friendly competition, and quality time together. The Pickleball Club will be on hand to guide you, so all skill levels are welcome. Please dress appropriately and bring a water bottle. You can borrow equipment on a first come, first serve basis. Equipment is limited, so if you have your own paddles we encourage you to bring them.
• Campus Activities Board’s Annual Drag Brunch in the Sunset Ballroom from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

• • The Campus Activities Board invites you to join us for one of the most vibrant traditions of the year, our Annual Drag Brunch! Happening on Saturday, October 17th from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm, this event blends education and entertainment in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
  • Parents and family members must register — seating is limited!

• HPU Shark Athletics 
  • Women's Soccer: 12:30pm vs. University of Hawai'i Hilo - Waipio Stadium
  • Men's Soccer: 3:00pm vs. University of Hawai'i Hilo - Waipio Stadium

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2026 

• Morning Hike to Makapu’u. Meet in front of Old Spaghetti Factory at Aloha Tower Marketplace at 7:00 am, depart at 7:20 am
  • Join our Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Jeff Rich, as he guides parents and students on the famous Makapuʻu hike—a must-see on Oʻahu! Together, you’ll take in breathtaking views, learn fun facts along the way, and share an unforgettable experience with your family.

• Waikiki Aquarium Outing. Meet in front of Old Spaghetti Factory at Aloha Tower Marketplace at 11:40 am, depart at 12:00 pm. Park your vehicle at Aloha Tower Marketplace (validations provided) and we will drive you to Waikiki Aquarium. We will return to Aloha Tower around 2:00 pm.
  • Parents and students are invited to join us for an exclusive outing to the Waikiki Aquarium, where Hawaii's vibrant marine life, unique coral reefs, and coastal history come alive. This family-friendly experience features an easy, accessible walk through the aquarium's indoor galleries and outdoor exhibits. The entire route is on flat ground and will not exceed a half-mile, making it perfect for all ages. Wearing comfortable, covered shoes is highly advisable for exploring the facility. Space for this special experience is limited, so gather your family and sign up today for an aquatic adventure you won’t want to miss!

Looking for more? Explore DISCOUNTED EVENTS WITH OUR CAMPUS PARTNERs!

USE PROMO CODE: HPU when purchasing your ticket for the activities below.  

Promotion Period: 10/1/2026 - 10/31/2026

1. STAR OF HONOLULU  - Pacific Star Sunset Buffet & Show Cruise
Location: Aloha Tower Marketplace Pier 8  
Cruise Time:  5:30pm - 7:30pm
Retail Price (except Fridays): $139.00 per adult with taxes
HPU discount (except Fridays): $111.20 per adult with taxes
Website for booking: https://starofhonolulu.com/buffet-cruise-booking

Note:
1. Waikiki Transportation is available at the additional price. Please add on the pick up hotel when you book.
2. Fridays: The cruise time is 5:30pm - 8:30pm (3-hour). There is no discount for the Friday cruise, but you still can book if you want to go on.
3. Processing fee will be applied upon booking.

2. Rock A Hula - Rock A Hula Show (no dinner)
Location: Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki, Bldg. B, 4th Floor (Address: 2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815)
Show Time: 7:40pm - 9:00pm (Check-in by 7:15pm)
Retail Price (except Mondays) $99.00 per adult with taxes, $59.00 per child (3-11)
HPU discount (except Mondays): $49.50 per adult with taxes / $49.50 per child (3-11)
Website for booking: https://www.rockahulahawaii.com/rockin-show-ticket-package

Note:
1. Rock A Hula closes every Mondays.
2. 50% off for adults! Discount for children as well.
3. Processing fee will be applied upon booking