Where to park, what app to download and other fun things for Punahou Carnival

Hereʻs what you need to know to enjoy the ride at this weekendʻs Pā‘ina Paniolo: A Country Carnival!

KKM
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros

February 04, 2025less than a minute read

An aerial view of a past Punahoul Carnival.
An aerial view of a past Punahou Carnival in Honolulu. The school tradition has been ongoing since 1932. (iStock)

It’s all fun and games until you show up to the Punahou Carnival and donʻt know where to park.

Don’t fret, Punahou School’s junior class organizers have got you covered. 

According to the school’s website, on-campus parking for carnival goers will be open at certain times and Middle Field parking is reserved only for those with placards.

Everyone else should plan to park off campus at these five neighboring partner sites: Central Union Church ($10 cash), Shriners Hospital for Children ($20-$50), Lutheran Church of Honolulu ($20 cash), The Episcopal Parish of St. Clement ($20-$50) and Maryknoll School’s two campuses ($10-$50 cash).

Parking fees will help support participating organizationsʻ programs and services.

Street parking is slim but available. TheBus routes 4 and 5 pass the school.

This year’s paniolo-themed event will run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Feb. 7 and 8, featuring rides and games, food, music and more. Other highlights include a Variety Show, art gallery and silent auction – with proceeds benefiting students in need of financial aid. More that 4,500 volunteers will help make the carnival a success, a Punahou School official said.  

Admission is free. Cashless purchases can be made via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and major credit or debit cards.

More information can be found online here.

E.K. Fernandez Shows to stirrup some fun at Punahou Carnival

Entertainment company E. K. Fernandez Shows, known for putting on the 50th State Fair, has supported the Punahou Carnival for decades, “providing rides and games that have become a beloved part of the event,” according to third-generation family business owner Scott Fernandez.

“We continue working closely with Punahou School to support and enhance the experience for attendees,” Fernandez told Aloha State Daily. “The Punahou Carnival is a longstanding tradition. … Our continued investment reflects our commitment to providing a fun and memorable experience for the community.”

This year, E. K. Fernandez Shows is debuting its Fun Pass app that allows guests to purchase credits for all rides and games at the Punahou Carnival. “This new feature makes it easier than ever for the community to enjoy the carnival experience,” he added.

Overall, the company’s “goal is to create lasting memories by bringing joy and excitement to every event we participate in," Fernandez said.  

E. K. Fernandez Shows is actively searching for a new home for the 50th State Fair, he said. “Once a location is secured, we will share the details on our website.”

Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.

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Authors

KKM

Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros

Senior Editor, Community Reporter

Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros is the Senior Editor and Community Reporter for Aloha State Daily.