Hawaii loves its pop-up markets. From artists to retail to food and beyond, there is a robust and supportive small business community here. In addition to all the shops and boutiques that carry local brands, people will travel all over the islands to hit up their favorite markets. The industry continues to grow and the markets are seemingly multiplying by the week. You may wonder, how do you find the best pop-up markets on Oahu?
I’ve been popping up with Aloha Lovely all over Oahu and thought it was about time that I shared a few of my favorites, both for shoppers and vendors alike. So here we go, the best pop-up markets on Oahu, according to a Hawaii small business owner.
Malama Hawaii Maker’s Market
Malama Hawaii Maker’s Market is a great maker-first market that showcases a curated selection of Hawaii small businesses. It mostly showcases retail-focused vendors with a few food/beverage vendors mixed in. They pop up the first three Saturdays a month, at three different locations.
The first Saturday is in Hawaii Kai, the second Saturday is at Ala Moana Center and the third is on the North Shore in Haleiwa. These markets always have a great vibe with live music, and chill energy. You’ll typically find me popping up with them consistently at Hawaii Kai and Haleiwa markets. It’s very well organized and the staff who run it are always friendly and helpful.
Malama Hawaii Maker’s Market
First three Saturdays of the month, 9AM-2PM, various locations
Lokahi Kailua Market
Another regular market you’ll find me at is Lokahi Kailua Market. This market is up and running every Sunday and unless I am out-of-town or have a scheduling conflict, you’ll find Aloha Lovely there. Lokahi is a very well-run market that truly supports the small businesses they showcase. I love the group of small businesses that show up here every Sunday.
Lokahi also has a mix of retail and food-focused small businesses, really something for everyone at this market. They also host special events depending on the time of year, like a Halloween themed market and Easter egg hunt.
Lokahi Kailua Market, Every Sunday, 9AM-1PM, Kailua
Honolulu Night Market
Honolulu Night Market is currently a twice a year market that happens in the fall and the summer. I remember back-in-the-day going to this market as shopper and loving the vibe. Last fall I was able to experience being a vendor at the market and it was almost as fun as being a shopper!
The market takes up a few city blocks in the Kakaako neighborhood of Honolulu and typically runs from 5-10pm. There is no update as to whether there will be a fall/winter market this year, but you can follow their Instagram account for any updates.
Honolulu Night Market, twice a year, 5PM-10PM, Honolulu (Kakaako)
Other Markets to Keep Tabs On
A few other markets I’ve participated in or have gone to that pop up throughout the year. You can follow them for any updates.
Various Night Markets (Kailua, Mililani, Kaneohe, Hawaii Kai)
I know there are many more markets on Oahu that are worth checking out. Hawaii really is the perfect place for outdoor markets as they can operate year-round. What other ones do you think should have made the list? Let me know in the comments. Aloha!
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