Honolulu Daily: Surf Rescues, Capitol Event, and Chinatown Gears Up for Lunar New Year

Honolulu, HI — February 17, 2026 — High surf rescues, LGBTQ+ advocacy at the Capitol, and Chinatown’s 50th Lunar New Year festival highlight today’s local news.

High surf keeps lifeguards busy over holiday weekend

Honolulu Ocean Safety reported a very active Presidents Day weekend on Oahu’s east side beaches, with high surf and strong shore break drawing big crowds.

Lifeguards carried out more than 20 rescues and well over a thousand preventative actions in a single day, alongside thousands of public contacts with beachgoers. Officials say the numbers underscore how quickly conditions can change and how important it is to heed warnings, check surf forecasts, and swim only near staffed towers.

Ocean Safety leaders are reminding residents and visitors that even experienced swimmers can get into trouble when shore break is heavy and currents are strong, and they urge people not to underestimate posted danger signs.

Queer Day at the Capitol returns to highlight LGBTQ+ issues

The Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission is hosting the 2nd Annual Queer Day at the Capitol today at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol in downtown Honolulu.

The event features educational panels on gender-affirming care, policy protections for LGBTQ+ communities, and a large community resource fair bringing together service providers, advocacy groups, and state leaders. Organizers say the goal is to connect residents with health, legal, and social support while elevating local voices in ongoing legislative debates.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring photo ID for building access, and consider public transit or shared rides because parking around the Capitol is limited.

Chinatown marks 50th Lunar New Year Festival and Parade

Honolulu’s Chinatown is preparing to celebrate the 50th Chinatown Lunar New Year Festival and Parade this Saturday, February 14, with an all-day schedule from morning into the evening.

The milestone Year of the Fire Horse celebration will center on ʻAʻala Park and North Beretania Street, with the parade stepping off from the State Capitol lawn and moving through Chinatown in the late afternoon. Lion and dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations, food and craft vendors, and keiki activities are all on the program.

Organizers expect large crowds and advise using TheBus or other alternatives, as road closures and limited parking are likely throughout the festival area.

Looking ahead

City leaders continue to weigh changes to Honolulu’s budget transparency and housing policies, with proposals for a public “open checkbook” and adjustments to affordable housing rules advancing through council committees in recent weeks.

Sources

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