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The state and Aloha Hālawa District Partners (AHDP) continue to progress through the diligence and discussion phase, which is the third and last phase of the procurement process.
The objective of the procurement process was for the state to execute a range of agreements by June 30, 2025. This was a self-imposed deadline to ensure that all parties progressed the diligence and negotiations with the appropriate urgency. While both the state and AHDP have been moving forward expeditiously, achieving the June 30, 2025 date became increasingly unlikely.
In recognition of this, on June 24, 2025, the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District (NASED) project team announced that it has extended its deadline for negotiations with AHDP through mid-August 2025.
The state has been pursuing NASED for several years and is very close to finalizing the arrangements for this once-in-a-generation project. The additional time afforded by this extension will help maintain the highest quality and best value for the state while keeping in alignment with the overall project timeline. This extension is not expected to have any impact on the overall project schedule as long as demolition activities commence in the coming months. It also will not impact the University of Hawai'i’s status as an NCAA Division 1 program.
The state and AHDP continue to work together to ensure that demolition activities for the existing Aloha Stadium can commence by the end of August 2025, as planned.
To read a copy of the news release click here.
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FAQs
Q: Why was an extension needed for the final agreement negotiations between NASED and AHDP?
A: Originally targeted for completion by June 30, 2025, the self-imposed deadline has now been extended through mid-August 2025 to allow continued progress on finalizing the various public-private partnership agreements.
The NASED project is a multi-faceted, complex, and long-term project. The additional time is intended to ensure the highest quality and best value for the state while maintaining alignment with the overall project timeline. Notably, the extension is not expected to impact the current plans to begin demolition of the old Aloha Stadium by the end of August 2025.
| | | | What's Going on at Aloha Stadium | | |
Transforming Stadium History into Lasting Public Art
Walls of Legacy: Aloha Stadium Sculpture Challenge Moves into Phase Two
The submission window for the Walls of Legacy: Aloha Stadium Sculpture Challenge has officially closed, marking the completion of the first phase of this one-of-a-kind public art initiative.
Launched by the Stadium Authority in partnership with the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace, the challenge invited Hawai‘i-based artists to transform salvaged pieces of Aloha Stadium’s iconic corrugated metal field wall into a large-scale, photo-worthy sculpture. The winning piece will be installed as a nostalgic and permanent landmark at the new Swap Meet location, paying tribute to the stadium’s 49-year legacy.
“We’ve been blown away by the creativity and heart that local artists poured into their submissions,” said Chris J. Sadayasu, Interim Stadium Manager. “It’s clear that the history of Aloha Stadium holds deep meaning for our community, and this project is about honoring that through lasting public art.”
As the project enters Phase Two, organizers will begin reviewing entries and selecting the final design that best reflects the spirit of Aloha Stadium, the Swap Meet, and the community. The winning artist or team will receive salvaged stadium materials and a stipend to bring their concept to life.
Announcements and updates on the winning design and installation timeline will be posted soon on the Aloha Stadium website.
This initiative not only honors a historic venue but also keeps the Swap Meet top of mind for longtime vendors, loyal shoppers, and new visitors — connecting the past to the present in a bold and meaningful way.
For continued updates, visit: alohastadium.hawaii.gov.
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Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace -
Explore, Engage & Play
Mahalo to everyone who supported our Food Bank Drive at the Swap Meet this past April and May. Your generosity made a real difference in our community — and we’re proud to recognize the team members who went above and beyond by collecting monetary donations from shoppers:
1st Place - Bobbie Jo
2nd Place - Olivier
3rd Place - Daria
Their enthusiasm, kindness, and dedication truly shone through as they encouraged shoppers to contribute to a great cause. Because of their efforts, essential food will reach those who need it most.
Thank you to Bobbie Jo, Olivier, Daria, and everyone who supported the drive — your generosity helps make our community a better place!
Open three days a week, the Swap Meet & Marketplace is more than just a place to shop — it’s an experience! With over 400 local vendors, ono food trucks, and live entertainment at our Ho‘okipa Hale Stage, it’s easy to spend the day soaking it all in. Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and one-of-a-kind finds at unbeatable prices.
Stay connected and informed on relocation updates, upcoming events and entertainment schedule, new arrivals, and exclusive promotions by following us on Facebook @AlohaStadiumHawaii and Instagram @alohastadiumhi. Visit our website for more details and to plan your visit https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/.
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Swap Meet & Marketplace Hours
Wednesday & Saturday: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sunday: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
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Admission Rate
All parking gates are CASH ONLY
$2.00 general admission for 12 years and older
$1.00 admission for Kamaʻāina (Hawai'i residents) and Active Military w/ valid ID
Free admission for 11 years and under
www.alohastadium.hawaii.gov
| | New retail units will be transitioned to the Upper Hālawa Lot | | Swap Meet & Marketplace Relocation Move is Pushed Back to August 1 | |
While we originally hoped to make the move by July 1, we’re extending that timeline to August 1 as we continue with important site improvements.
This includes relocating restrooms and our Ho‘okipa Hale tent, installing retail units, underground utility work, surface repairs, and electrical installations — all essential for creating a comfortable, convenient, and safe space for our vendors and shoppers. Mahalo — we’re looking forward to welcoming you to our new home soon!
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Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Ho'okipa Entertainer Spotlight:
UNCLE LOPAKA BROWN
If you’ve spent time at Ho‘okipa Hale soaking in the sounds of island music, chances are you’ve had the pleasure of hearing Uncle Lopaka Brown. With his warm smile, soulful voice, and signature strumming on the guitar, Uncle Lopaka brings heart and history to every performance.
Born in Kalihi and raised in beautiful Waimea Valley on the North Shore of O‘ahu, Uncle Lopaka now calls ‘Ewa Beach home. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served one tour in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970 — and even earned his high school diploma (GED) during his time in service. After the Marines, Uncle Lopaka followed his heart and turned to music, becoming a beloved solo entertainer performing throughout the island.
These days, as a freelance solo artist, he uses his time and talent to give back — often performing free of charge for disabled veterans, charities, and local community events. He’s also your guy for birthdays, weddings, company get-togethers, holiday parties — you name it. If there’s a celebration, Uncle Lopaka brings the Aloha.
We’re lucky to have him as part of the Ho‘okipa Hale ‘ohana. His performances are filled with stories, laughter, and songs that take you back while reminding you why we love Hawai‘i so much. Come by Ho‘okipa Hale at Section 8 of the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace and enjoy Uncle Lopaka’s music — where good food, live music, and island vibes come together under one roof.
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Upcoming Performance Dates:
Wednesdays and Sundays
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
| | | | Memories at Aloha Stadium | | Introducing Memories at Aloha Stadium - a new monthly visual series paying tribute to the experiences that have made Aloha Stadium a cornerstone of Hawai‘i life over the past 47 years. Each edition will spotlight the diverse events and everyday moments that turned the stadium into a gathering place for generations — from community celebrations and sporting events to cultural festivals and more, we take a look back at the memories that helped shape its iconic legacy. | | |
This Month’s Look Back
This month’s collage captures the electric energy of Summer Fun at Aloha Stadium — a season packed with unforgettable entertainment and community connection. From packed concert nights under the stars and thrilling carnival rides to vibrant market strolls and lively performances, these moments showcase the stadium’s role as a summer hotspot for all ages. Whether it’s fans cheering in unison, families exploring the swap meet, or iconic acts lighting up the stage, this visual snapshot celebrates the joy, rhythm, and aloha spirit that continue to define summers at Aloha Stadium.
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This summer, the Hawai‘i State Public Library System invites readers of all ages to take part in its 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, running from June 1 to July 31. This year’s theme, “E Heluhelu Kākou – Mele,” invites the community to feel the rhythm of reading through poetry, chants, and music. It’s a joyful tribute to the powerful sounds and stories that bring us together—celebrating the cultural threads that connect Hawai‘i’s people through words and melody.
Participants can register online https://www.librarieshawaii.org/summerreading or at the 'Aiea State Library to begin logging books, audiobooks, and reading minutes. All forms of reading count—whether it's keiki storybooks, mele and mo‘olelo, or the lyrics of your favorite songs. The more you read, the more chances you have to win prizes donated by generous community sponsors.
As part of this celebration of memory and voice, the spotlight turns to a remarkable local history project from the heart of the community. In 2007, Arlene Seto Ching, then the head librarian at ‘Aiea Public Library, began interviewing longtime residents to collect their personal recollections of ‘Aiea’s rich history. These interviews were recorded and transcribed for the library’s local history files and later compiled into a soft-bound, 270-page book titled ‘Aiea: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow.
This invaluable collection captures firsthand stories of life in ‘Aiea—from plantation-era memories and changing landscapes to reflections on community identity and shared experiences. It serves not only as a historical resource but also as a living tribute to the voices that helped shape the neighborhood.
Copies of ‘Aiea: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow are available for purchase at online at https://www.aieacommunity.org/projects/aiea-oral-history-project, with proceeds supporting community preservation efforts.
Whether you’re reading for fun, for learning, or to connect more deeply with the music of our local culture, this summer is a perfect time to join the movement. “E Heluhelu Kākou – Mele” invites us all to read together, sing together, and celebrate the voices of Hawai‘i.
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