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Celebrate the holidays like Hawaiian royalty at rare evening tours of Iolani Palace, scheduled for Dec. 28-30. It’s the only time guests are invited to ascend the koa staircase to the second floor of the historic residence, where treasures of the Hawaiian Kingdom await. Read more

Celebrate the holidays like Hawaiian royalty at rare evening tours of Iolani Palace, scheduled for Dec. 28-30. It’s the only time guests are invited to ascend the koa staircase to the second floor of the historic residence, where treasures of the Hawaiian kingdom await.

The tours, presented by the Friends of Iolani Palace, are being offered in honor of Queen Kapiolani’s Dec. 31 birthday. Shimmering decorations and music throughout the halls and palace grounds will re-create the ambiance of King Kalakaua’s holiday soirees.

Performers include Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, Kamakakehau Fernandez, Kaulalua, Kupaoa, Puamana, Iwalani Apo, pianist Eric Shank and soloists from the Mae Z. Orvis Opera Studio of the Hawaii Opera Theatre, and several hula halau.

In the Upper Hall, Puamana, Hoopono Wong and Kaiao Kaiao will perform songs written by Kapiolani and Na Lani Eha, a name given to the four royal siblings — Kalakaua, Queen Lili‘uokalani, Prince Leleiohoku and Princess Likelike — who were known for their musical talents.

The Dec. 28 VIP tour is limited to 300 guests and features food from Pili Group and drinks from Young’s Market Co. Tickets are $95 for adults, $25 for children ages 5 to 12 years, and free for 4 and under.

On Dec. 29 and 30, evening tours will be offered from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with a limited number of reserved tour times available for $30 per person. Unreserved general admission — $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 to 12 years old and free for younger keiki — will be available for purchase starting at 4:30 p.m., with the last tickets sold at 8:45 p.m. each evening. Food by Burgers and Things! will be available for purchase.

Book VIP and reserved tickets at iolanipalace.org.