HONOLULU — As Hawaiʻi prepares to celebrate Independence Day during the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is reminding residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly. With larger crowds, increased travel and community events expected across Oʻahu, officers will have an increased presence islandwide.
“Our officers will be working alongside the Hawaiʻi Department of Law Enforcement and our public safety partners throughout the holiday to help keep our communities safe,” said Major Clifford Ramson of HPD’s Major Events Division. “We’ll be conducting high-visibility patrols focused on traffic safety, impaired driving, and illegal fireworks enforcement. Our goal is simple: help everyone enjoy the holiday and return home safely.”
Motorists should expect heavier traffic throughout the holiday weekend. HPD reminds drivers to stay alert, put their phones away, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions behind the wheel. The Fourth of July holiday consistently brings increased traffic and a greater risk of impaired driving, making every safe decision behind the wheel especially important. Anyone planning to consume alcohol should arrange for a designated sober driver or use a rideshare service or other safe transportation option.
HPD also reminds the public that Hawaiʻi’s illegal fireworks laws were strengthened in 2025, providing law enforcement with additional enforcement tools. Illegal fireworks pose a serious risk to public safety and can result in citations or arrests for those who possess, use, or sell them. Illegal fireworks activity should be reported immediately by calling 911.
Residents who wish to enjoy fireworks are encouraged to attend one of Oʻahu’s legal, professionally operated fireworks displays, including:
- Waikīkī Fourth of July Celebration | 8:30 p.m.
- O‘ahu Country Club Fourth of July Celebration (ground display) | 8:30 p.m.
- Kailua Community Fourth of July Celebration | 8:00 p.m.
- North Shore Chamber of Commerce Fourth of July Celebration | 8:30 p.m.
- Polynesian Cultural Center Fourth of July Event | 8:45 p.m.
Whether attending a community event, gathering with family and friends, or traveling across the island, HPD encourages everyone to make safe choices and celebrate responsibly. The Honolulu Police Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July.