101 Things To Do in Hawai‘i

Frolic on Friday NightO‘ahu

Honolulu’s Chinatown has recently gained renown for its collection of art galleries and fun night hotspots. Building on this reputation, The Chinatown Arts District helps host First Friday and Slow Arts Friday. Area clubs have made use of the crowds to turn First Friday into a fun night for both art viewing and socializing.

On the first Friday of each month, the hustle and bustle on Chinatown streets moves to the galleries, restaurants and nightspots. Called First Friday, the popular event made its debut several years ago and continues to draw crowds.

At 6 p.m., there is a live music performance on the lawn of the Hawai‘i State Art Museum. In addition, boutiques and galleries stay open until 9 p.m. for an art walk featuring local works and performances that attracts young and old alike. Then, the party moves to nearby bars and clubs, which stay open until 2 a.m.

Slow Art Friday, held every third Friday of the month, was founded by the Chinatown Arts District in reaction to the busy-ness and overwhelming popularity of First Friday. Slow Art

Friday celebrates a slowed-down, art-oriented feel, with featured foods and drinks as well as galleries open until 9:30 p.m. for strolling perusal.

Later in the day, no matter the date, various hot spots along Hotel Street feature experienced bartenders and hip scenes. Night brings out Chinatown’s racier side, but like a whiff of exotic perfume, it’s hard to resist.

To try out the Honolulu night life, go to Indigo, a local restaurant that at night becomes a cool spot with an indoor and outdoor bar, DJs and sleek decor. Or, visit Nextdoor, a large converted warehouse space centered on the music scene. Or, for a cozier, sophisticated locale, check out The Dragon Upstairs, which is a small upstairs bar that boasts live jazz and a sleek ambiance.

Chinatown is home to some 30 galleries; the Hawai‘i Theatre Center, a beautifully renovated 1922 performing-arts jewel; the nearby Hawai‘i State Art Museum; as well as coffee houses, bars, restaurants and live music venues.

To find out more about First and Slow Art Fridays or the general scene, visit www.artsdistricthonolulu.com.