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Hula, surf films, and more: Friday, July 24, to Sunday, July 26
Ready to plan for the weekend? Aloha State Daily can help! Whether you are looking to catch the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition and Festival or watch a free movie at Queen’s Beach in Waikīkī, there are lots of options for weekend fun on Oʻahu.
Katie HellandJuly 21, 2026

Chef Chai just launched a new menu
The Kakaʻako eatery recently updated its menu based on customer feedback. Diners can now find a variety of dishes that were popular at Chai’s Island Bistro — when the eatery was at Aloha Tower — and favorites from the its monthly wine dinners.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 21, 2026

Here's what's new at the 32nd annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival
Hawaiian Airlines presents the 32nd Annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival returns to Honolulu in August and organizers say it'll be the biggest festival yet, with more than 800 vendor booths spanning nearly 300,000 square feet across two nights and two full days.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 21, 2026

Kyoto’s Dragon Burger is now open in Honolulu
The Japan-based burger spot — known for its gourmet wagyu patties and innovative sauces — just soft opened at Midtown Eats food hall at The Park on Keʻeaumoku. The menu is limited for now; the business will celebrate its grand opening on July 25.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 20, 2026

This Pacific Northwest-inspired coffee shop is open on Oʻahu
Hawaiʻi locals Caameron and Monica Nakasone moved back to Oʻahu from Oregon about two years ago. Their new café, Third Space Coffee, features some of their favorite flavors from the Pacific Northwest; the shop is in a shared space with Cake M in the 808 Center.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 20, 2026

Hawaiʻi Island hālau returns for Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition
Keiki from 15 hālau across the state, including Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island, will compete in the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition this week. Kumu Kenneth “Aloha” Dean Alohapumehanaokalā Victor shares how he helps the students of Hālau Kala’akeakauikawēkiu embrace fun and dream big.
Katie HellandJuly 20, 2026

Lawsuit against Hawai‘i's chief election officer could go to U.S. Supreme Court
Virginia-based Public Interest Legal Foundation sued Chief Election Officer Scott Nago over access to state voter registration data in 2023.
Michael BrestovanskyJuly 18, 2026

Kimo's Restaurant set to return to Lahaina's Front Street
The restaurant was among the businesses lost in the deadly August 2023 wildfire that destroyed much of West Maui community.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 18, 2026

Hawai‘i women's volleyball releases 2026 schedule, announces assistant coach changes
The Rainbow Wahine will open their season on Aug. 28 against Georgia Southern.
Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026
Daily Features
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Daily Smile: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
"I liked the purple and orange colors, with the small clouds in the foreground giving it a feeling of depth. It made me feel energetic and hopeful for the beginning of a new day. I think this photo is special because of its color and complexity."

Daily Smile: Monday, July 20, 2026
Food & Dining
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New weekend brunch option at Pier 38
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 17, 2026
Honolulu Coffee Co.’s Bakery on King store is giving out free dot cakes
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 17, 2026
Chick-fil-A Kamokila to host fundraiser for River of Life Mission
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 17, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach to partner with Ladurée
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 17, 2026
The Beach House by 604 is offering a new Sunday brunch buffet
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 16, 2026
Arts & Entertainment
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Native Hawaiian Convention returns to Honolulu
Katie HellandJuly 17, 2026
Hawai‘i's Bretman Rock makes 2026 Time100 Creators list
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 16, 2026
Hula, ʻAuana soundtrack, and $1 ice cream: weekend guide for Oʻahu
Katie HellandJuly 15, 2026
Your guide to upcoming theater on Oʻahu
Katie HellandJuly 14, 2026
And the Nā Hōkū Hanohano winners are ...
Katie HellandJuly 12, 2026
Sports
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University of Hawai‘i right at home in new-look Mountain West Conference
Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026
Hawai‘i quarterback Micah Alejado embraces star status at Mountain West media days
Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026
Hawai‘i's Mountain West representatives soak up Las Vegas homecoming
Christian ShimabukuJuly 16, 2026
Timmy Chang, UH agree to long-term contract extension, UH AD Matt Elliott says
Christian ShimabukuJuly 15, 2026
Q&A: Hawai‘i director Matt Elliott looks ahead as school officially enters new era
Christian ShimabukuJuly 15, 2026