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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, July 4, 2009

Go forth for a festive Fourth


By David Pham
Advertiser Staff Writer

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Magic Island offers a close-up look at the fireworks.

Advertiser library photos

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Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Former sumo wrestler Konishiki is throwing a bash for kids at the water park today.

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If you want to celebrate with others on Independence Day, check out these events:

WET'N'WILD FUNDRAISER FOR THE KONISHIKI KIDS

The Konishiki Kids Foundation, founded by a prestigious (and now retired) professional sumo wrestler, will host activities at the Wet'n'Wild Hawaii water park from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., with live music, games and fireworks.

Saleva'a Atisanoe (he's from Nanakuli), better known as Konishiki, and the Konishiki Kids Foundation will hold activities, including watermelon and hot dog eating contests, with prizes such as an 'ukulele, video game console and flat-screen TV.

From 5 to 8 p.m., local musicians will perform, including Jeff and Robi (Jeff Rasmussen and Robi Kahakalau), Vaihi and Fiji. Konishiki will also perform, then meet guests and sign autographs.

The day will be capped off by an 8 p.m. fireworks display, by Fireworks by Grucci.

Discounted tickets will be on sale at the gate for $25. Annual pass holders must buy tickets to attend the event, as part of the day's receipts benefits the Konishiki Kids Foundation.

KAILUA PARADE

The Kailua Parade begins at 10 a.m. at Kainalu Elementary School and ends at Kailua District Park. Watch as veterans, business owners and local patriots march with parade floats, banners and bands, including the Royal Hawaiian Band. An air show fills the skies over Kailua Bay at 6 p.m., followed by the 8 p.m. fireworks display off Kailua Beach Park.

Best place to watch the fireworks:

Lanikai to Kalaheo, Kalama Beach Park or Kailua Beach Park.

ALA MOANA FIREWORKS DISPLAY

The fireworks will fire up at about 8:30 p.m. at Ala Moana beach, but go at 5 p.m. for live entertainment in the mall.

Best place to watch:

The beach for close-up action or the Ala Moana shopping mall at the south upper-level parking deck for a wider view.

JUST THE FIREWORKS

Of course, if you're just looking for the fireworks, there are plenty to choose from:

  • 8 p.m. Ihilani hotel at Ko Olina

  • 8 p.m. Kailua Beach Park

  • 8 p.m. Ma'ili Beach Park

  • 8 p.m. Maunalua Bay, Hawai'i Kai

  • 8 p.m. Wet'n'Wild Hawaii water park

  • 8:30 p.m.: Ala Moana Beach Park

  • 8:30 p.m. Hickam Air Force Base

  • 8:30 p.m. Schofield Barracks

  • 9 p.m. Pearl Harbor