The annual Christmas countdown has begun and the rush is on, with only 24 days before Dec. 25 to take in all the holiday happenings that make the season lighter and brighter.

The city’s 55-foot Christmas tree is now illuminated at Honolulu Hale for the 40th annual Honolulu City Lights. Hawaiian entertainer Raiatea Helm and Mayor Rick Blangiardi kicked off the ...

The man behind many of the sculptures, like Shaka Santa,Tutu Mele and the holiday bears is retiring. Alex Ching has been helping out with the outside City Lights displays since 1991.