NEWSLETTER

December 2025

Project Update

Following the major milestone in September with the execution of the first two agreements with Aloha Hālawa District Partners (AHDP), we’re pleased to share another important milestone was reached earlier this month with the state issuing the Demolition Notice to Proceed to AHDP. This notice officially allows physical dismantling of the existing Aloha Stadium.


Site mobilization activities are now steadily underway. Material for site fencing has been delivered, and installation of the plywood fencing is currently in progress. Fencing work began on the north side of the stadium and will continue clockwise around the site for the next several weeks. In addition, two office trailers have been delivered and AHDP is currently finalizing the layout for the stadium office trailers in the Lower Hālawa Lot to facilitate relocation of the stadium staff out of the existing stadium.


Over the coming months, additional site mobilization activities will include internal hazardous materials abatement work and securing and disconnecting on-site utilities. Community members can expect to see visible dismantling of the existing stadium beginning in early 2026.


Only a few items remain on the real estate-related agreements with execution expected in the coming months. The timing of executing these agreements will not impact the delivery or opening schedule of the new stadium. Once finalized, the NASED team will provide a public update outlining key deal points, including AHDP’s expected deliverables and deadlines.

FAQs



Q: How will the community be kept up to date during the dismantling and construction phase?


A: The project team will provide regular updates through community meetings, newsletters, the NASED website, and social media. A dedicated community engagement plan is in place to keep stakeholders, nearby communities and the general public informed throughout the entire process.

In The News

KHON2 Reports on Demolition Beginning on Aloha Stadium

As demolition begins at Aloha Stadium, familiar spaces reveal the contrast between what remains and what is being dismantled. Notable items, including the lockers of Colt Brennan and Timmy Chang, will be preserved in state archives. The stadium’s memories and mana are expected to carry forward. Read the full article here.

Aloha State Daily Reports on Dismantling of Aloha Stadium

Dismantling of Aloha Stadium has officially begun, marking a key step toward construction of the new 22,500-seat stadium on the same Hālawa site. Officials say the process will take about nine months with minimal traffic impact. The Stadium Authority also held its final meeting inside the venue after 50 years, signaling the end of an era. Read the full article here.

What's Going on at Aloha Stadium

Walls of Legacy: Aloha Stadium Sculpture ChallengeProject Update


For the past six months, the Walls of Legacy: Aloha Stadium Sculpture Challenge has been taking shape, bringing together history, creativity, and the spirit of Aloha Stadium. As the project nears completion, we are excited to share that the finished sculpture by artist Bobby Trice will be unveiled to the public in early January 2026.


Using reclaimed metal frames from the original Aloha Stadium seats, the materials have been carefully reworked into a bold, over–six-foot metal pineapple crowned at the top. This transformation preserves a physical piece of the stadium’s legacy, carrying it forward through art as Aloha Stadium enters its next chapter.


As we approach the final stages, Walls of Legacy stands as a tribute to the memories made at the stadium and a symbol of how those stories can live on—reimagined, respected, and shared with the community for years to come. Stay tuned for more information through our website https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/main/legacywall/.

Stadium Authority Appoints Michael Yadao as Deputy Stadium Manager



The Stadium Authority has appointed Michael Yadao as Deputy Stadium Manager, marking an important leadership transition as the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District (NASED) project moves into its next phase. In this role, Yadao will oversee day-to-day stadium operations while helping guide the project through dismantling and long-term redevelopment.


Yadao brings decades of experience in Hawaiʻi’s construction industry, labor relations and government affairs, and has served on the Stadium Authority Board since 2021. His deep institutional knowledge and close interactions with labor organizations, contractors and community stakeholders position him to provide continuity and forward momentum for the NASED Project.


“I’m honored to step in as deputy stadium manager at such an important phase of the NASED project. With my background in Hawai‘i’s construction industry and working closely with our local labor community, I’m committed to helping move this project forward with purpose and collaboration. I want to express my sincere appreciation to Ryan Andrews and Chris Sadayasu for their leadership, as well as to the Stadium Authority, the Governor, our legislators and all stakeholders who have helped bring us to this point. The foundation has been laid, and I look forward to working together to deliver a development that the people of Hawai‘i can be proud of — one that truly embodies the aloha spirit and reflects how special our community is,” stated Yadao.

 

The Stadium Authority remains committed to ensuring the NASED project reflects Hawaiʻi’s values, supports local jobs and creates a vibrant, world-class destination that serves residents and visitors for generations to come.

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet and Marketplace - Explore, Engage & Play



Enjoy Kamaʻāina Weekends at the Swap Meet & Marketplace, as we continue to showcase local businesses, island music and the best deals in the state.

Holidays at the Marketplace

Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Made Easy Open on Christmas Eve


Still checking off your holiday gift list? We’ve got you covered. Join us on Christmas Eve for last-minute holiday shopping and support over 400 local vendors offering unique, island-made gifts you won’t find anywhere else. From handcrafted items and specialty foods to one-of-a-kind finds, it’s the perfect place to wrap up your holiday shopping.


Enjoy extra savings when you show your HOLO card at specially marked vendors featuring exclusive holiday discounts and offers. It’s our way of saying mahalo for supporting local this season. Visit our website for a full list of participating vendors and make your Christmas Eve shopping both meaningful and memorable. 🎄✨

EXPLORE

Public parking is now available through Hālawa Gate 3 (across from Ice Palace) with easy access via Kahuapaani Street. Admission remains affordable at $2 for general, $1 for kamaʻāina and active-duty military, and free for keiki 11 years and under.


ENGAGE

Stay connected to ensure you never miss any of the latest Marketplace events and exciting activities. For what you Need To Know Before You Go visit https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/new-swap-meet-marketplace-relocation


PLAY

Grab a bite to eat at one of our food trucks and experience the heartbeat of Aloha at our Ho’okipa Hale Entertainment Stage & Food Court Tent, where local artists bring the spirit of Hawai'i through music and dance.

This Month's Look Back

Hawai'i Bowl: Celebrating a Legacy at Aloha Stadium and Looking Ahead to Christmas Eve



For years, the Hawaiʻi Bowl has been a cherished holiday tradition at Aloha Stadium, bringing together football fans, families, and the community to celebrate the season with an unforgettable matchup under the island sky. Aloha Stadium has served as the proud home of countless memorable moments—last-second plays, standout performances, and the unmistakable energy that only Hawaiʻi can offer on game day. These years have cemented the Hawaiʻi Bowl as more than just a game, but a lasting part of the state’s sports and holiday culture.


This year, fans can look forward to an exciting 2025 Sheraton Hawaiʻi Bowl matchup on Christmas Eve, where the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors (8-4) will take on the California Golden Bears (7-5) at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex located on the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa campus in Honolulu. The game kicks off at 3:00 p.m. HST and will be nationally televised on ESPN. Hawaiʻi, led by head coach Timmy Chang, enjoyed one of its best seasons in years, while Cal, with interim head coach Nick Rolovich at the helm, looks to secure its first eight-win season since 2019 in its first Hawaiʻi Bowl appearance. It promises to be a hard-fought, competitive contest with plenty of storylines and holiday excitement for fans. Go Bows! 

In the Community

'Aiea Community Christmas Parade and Family Fun Fair


The 'Aiea Community Association Christmas Parade and Family Fun Fair, held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, was a joyful celebration that brought the community together to celebrate the holiday spirit. Following the lively parade, families gathered to enjoy an array of activities, including community booths, live entertainment, holiday treats from local food vendors, unique crafts and fun games for the keiki!


The event also featured a donation station benefiting the Blood Bank of Hawaii as well as a conveniently located flu shot clinic, highlighting the community’s commitment to caring for one another during the holiday season.


The Aloha Stadium Entertainment District (NASED) team was honored to join in the festivities, spreading holiday cheer at our booth. Attendees stopped by to ask questions about the NASED project, spin the wheel for Christmas goodies and prizes, enter our drawing for Aloha Stadium memorabilia and gift cards to local eateries, and create festive holiday crafts throughout the day.


Sponsored by the 'Aiea Community Association, this heartwarming event filled the community with joy, generosity, and the true spirit of the season. 


On behalf of the NASED team, Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!

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