PHOTOS: 4 ways locals celebrated July 4 this year

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Various celebrations — beyond the usual fireworks and barbecues — marked the U.S.’s 250th anniversary on Independence Day.

From regatta to an annual Japanese tradition on Oʻahu, here’s four other events that took place on this July 4.

84th Regatta

To start off the morning, the 84th Walter J. Macfarlane Memorial Canoe Regatta was held at Waikiki Beach.

“Today there’s a swell. It’s not huge, but it’s not flat, so I mean it’s like a perfect requirement day, there’s excitement, there’s enough activity to keep it, first the variable, and keep everybody on their toes, and it makes for close races,” said Jim Foti with the Lanikai Canoe Club.

Canoe paddlers of all ages hit the water for a full day of racing.

“We have had some really fun races this morning,” said Siana Austin Hunt, president of the Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association. “Our kids did really well. We also had some great finishes with a lot of crews finishing on the same wave.”

The regatta is a tradition that is recognized as the longest-running outrigger canoe races in the world.

America250

Kapiolani Park served as the backdrop for America’s once-in-a-lifetime celebration commemorating 250 years. The free event brought families together for food, music, performances and special recognition for our military and veterans.

“There’s a lot of people that’s been going around the different booths and the different venues and enjoying themselves, listening to the music every hour on the hour, and at the same time they’re looking at some of the auditory, tasting the various different types of food, and just enjoying yourself and relaxing,” said Lynn Mariano, commissioner of Hawaii America250 Commission.

La Hoʻihoʻi Ea

While many celebrated Independence Day, others gathered at Iolani Palace to reflect on a different perspective of Hawaiʻi’s history into statehood.

The event highlighted La Hoʻihoʻi Ea, or Sovereignty Restoration Day, which commemorates the history of the Hawaiian Kingdom and encouraged a discussion about Hawaiian sovereignty and self-determination.

“We’re here to reclaim our place to retell our stories and to resound the message of Hawaiian sovereignty restoration,” said Imai Winchester, lead organizer for La Hoʻihoʻi Ea.

The free event included cultural performances, music, educational exhibits, speakers and family activities. It was the first of a month-long series of events that will lead up to a celebration on July 26 at Thomas Square.

Organizers said it’s an opportunity to learn, reflect and celebrate Hawaiian identity.

Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest

An annual Japanese tradition fell on the 4th of July this year. The popular Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest drew in thousands to the Old Varsity Theater parking lot on University Avenue.

Now in its 13th year, the event prides itself on having one of Honolulu’s largest bon dances — and no obon festival is complete without taiko drums and andagi.

One of the booths was prepared to sell thousands of the deep-fried treat, with proceeds supporting Hawaii’s young athletes.

The festival is held every first Saturday of July.