The number of "Sunset" events will drop from 35 to 24 this year, and "Brunches" will be reduced from 11 to four, Hannemann said.

The City Council had often feuded with former Mayor Jeremy Harris over the costs of such festivals, and his administration sometimes could not — or would not — provide all financial details. Hannemann had pledged during his election campaign to seek more private sector support for the events.

Harris budgeted $160,000 for "Sunsets" during the fiscal year that ends in July, and $75,000 for "Brunches," Hannemann said.

Waikiki Improvement Association executive director Rick Egged said the events have become "signature attractions" that are associated internationally with the neighborhood.

"They've been a symbol of the renaissance that has occurred in Waikiki," he said.

Aside from city money, the events are supported with grants from the Hawai'i Tourism Authority, proceeds from food sales and private donations.

Promoters and private businesses will immediately start handling duties related to the events that had been performed by city employees, such as delivering chairs and collecting garbage, Hannemann said.