A First-Timer’s Guide to the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra
Going to your first symphony concert should feel exciting, not overwhelming. It is completely normal to have a few basic questions before you buy a ticket: What should I wear? When do I clap? Where do I park?
If you have never been to a Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra (HSO) show before, you can set aside any worries about rigid rules or stuffy traditions. An evening with your orchestra is welcoming, relaxed, and deeply connected to life in Hawaiʻi. Whether you are coming out for a classical Halekulani Masterworks performance, watching a favorite movie live with our Films in Concert series, or enjoying local crossovers at HapaSymphony, this guide has everything you need for a smooth night out.
What to Expect: Atmosphere and What to Wear
We like to say the HSO is a symphony shaped by Hawaiʻi. That means our concerts feel like our island community—friendly, open, and inclusive. In the lobby before a show, you will see everyone from lifelong classical fans and date-night couples to families, students, and visitors.
What is the Dress Code?
You do not need a tuxedo, suit, or gown to enjoy live music with us. Most people dress in Aloha Wear or Resort Casual.
| What to Wear | Recommended Clothes | What to Leave at Home |
|---|---|---|
| Gentlemen | An Aloha shirt or collared shirt with slacks, khakis, or clean jeans and closed-toe shoes. | Board shorts, tank tops, and beach slippers. |
| Ladies | A sun dress, Aloha dress, or slacks with a nice top. | Swimwear cover-ups or workout clothes. |
| Pro Tip | Bring a light sweater or jacket. Concert halls run their air conditioning cold to protect the delicate instruments on stage. | Forgetting an extra layer if you tend to get chilly indoors. |
Venues, Locations, and Parking
The orchestra performs mostly at two major venues in Honolulu, along with occasional outdoor shows at spaces like the Waikīkī Shell. Here is how to navigate each location.
1. Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall
Located on Ward Avenue near Kakaʻako, the Blaisdell Concert Hall is where we host our largest symphonic programs and film concerts.
Address: 1130 Bethel St, Honolulu, HI 96813
Parking: While the theatre does not have its own parking structure, several public garages are just a two-block walk away. Good options include the Chinatown Gateway Plaza garage (1052 Bethel St) and the Harbor Court garage (847 Bethel St).
Rideshare: Taking an Uber or Lyft straight to the front door on Bethel Street is a great way to skip parking altogether.