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"Hawaii's Bold Move: $16 Minimum Wage by 2026!"

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"Hawaii's Bold Move: $16 Minimum Wage by 2026!"

"Hawaii's Bold Move: $16 Minimum Wage by 2026!"
"Breaking News: Hawaii's Minimum Wage Soars to $16/hr by 2026!"

Katie Friedman

Dec 16, 2025

Starting in 2026, Hawaii's minimum wage will increase to $16 per hour, making it one of the highest in the nation.

This new law will be implemented gradually over the next five years, with the first increase set to $13 per hour in 2023.

The goal is to provide workers with a livable wage, especially given the high cost of living in Hawaii.

This increase is expected to benefit thousands of workers in the state, including those in the service and hospitality industries.

Read More...

Maui Wildfire Recovery Continues

The long-term recovery from last year’s devastating wildfires remains a major focus:

  • Efforts to rebuild homes and infrastructure on Maui continue.

  • State and federal funds are being deployed for community and cultural restoration.

  • Local leaders are working with residents on housing and business support.


Hurricane/Tropical Weather Preparedness

With the Pacific storm season still active:

  • Hawaii emergency management agencies are reminding residents to prepare supplies.

  • Forecasts show potential tropical systems approaching the Pacific — officials urge readiness.


Tourism & Flight Trends

  • Visitor numbers to the islands remain strong as winter travel picks up.

  • Airlines are adding seasonal service to Hawaii.

  • Airports and hotels are adjusting operations to handle holiday travel peaks.


Local Economy & Jobs

  • Discussions on affordable housing and workforce housing for locals are ongoing.

  • Restaurants and small businesses are posting strong year-end earnings, especially in tourist hubs.


Environmental & Community News

  • Beach preservation efforts on Oahu and Kauai are in the spotlight.

  • Surf and ocean safety campaigns are promoting smart practices for residents and visitors.

Holiday & Seasonal Events (Across Hawaii)

Santa in Paradise / Holiday Parades

Many islands host festive holiday parades, tree lightings, and Santa sightings on beaches in mid-December — check local calendars like Hawai‘i News Now or Hawaii Tourism Authority for exact schedules.


Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs

Seasonal markets with locally made art, jewelry, food, and gifts are common this time of year:

  • Kaka‘ako Holiday Market — Honolulu

  • Farmers’ & Artisanal Holiday Fairs — locations vary weekly

Use: https://www.eventbrite.com/d/hi–hawaii/events/ and https://www.visithawaii.com/events/


Live Music & Beach Events

Hawaiian music performances and beach luaus continue through December — often with seasonal themes.



City-Specific Event Sites (Live Listings)

Oahu (Honolulu & Waikiki)
Events calendar: https://www.honolulu.gov/parks/holidays


Maui

Maui events & festivals: https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/maui/events


Kauai

Kauai event calendar: https://www.kauai.gov/parks


Big Island (Hawai‘i Island)

Big Island official events: https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/events



Annual / Recurring December Highlights

These often occur mid-month but vary by year:

  • Holiday Light Displays & Tree Lighting Ceremonies

  • Hawaiian Cultural Shows & Holiday Hula

  • Christmas Concerts & Chanukah Celebrations

  • Yoga on the Beach / Sunset Acoustic Sessions



Quick Search Links You Can Use Now

Here are curated search links so you can see live event listings this week:

Hawaii's real estate this week shows a dynamic market with luxury homes setting records, ongoing affordable housing initiatives (especially on Kauai), and shifts in condo markets (like potential Maui deals), alongside general high costs, but also new developments like Honolulu's Lokahi & Kainalu projects, indicating varied opportunities despite overall high prices and out-migration trends. 

Quote Of The Day

"Living in Hawaii is like living in a paradise every day."

Joke Of The Day

Why did the Hawaiian girl bring a ladder to the beach?

Because she heard the waves were great for surfing!

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© 2026 Aloha Community Breeze.

Aloha Community Breeze is your statewide Hawaii newsletter, carrying the spirit of aloha in every issue. With a warm, community-first voice, it highlights local news, island events, hidden gems, and stories that connect neighbors across the islands.

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