NEWSLETTER

May 2025

Project Update

The Swap Meet & Marketplace relocation to the Upper Hālawa Lot (on site) continues. Anticipated completion is this summer 2025, and the Swap Meet & Marketplace will move to the new location shortly after. For the most up-to-date details, check out the “What’s Going on at Aloha Stadium” section of this newsletter.


With the execution of the Pre-Development Agreement in late March 2025, the state project team and Aloha Halawa District Partners (AHDP) continue to work on a range of diligence, technical and other matters during this current phase of the procurement process. AHDP has commenced a range of diligence studies on site, including environmental and geotechnical analyses and has been ramping up on ongoing design tasks. The expectation is the state and AHDP will execute a range of agreements by June 2025.


The NASED procurement process remains active. Further details of AHDP’s proposal will continue to be made public through community outreach activities that began during the diligence and discussion phase.



Businesses or organizations that would like to register their interest with AHDP may submit their contact information on the “Doing Business” page on the project website: https://nased.hawaii.gov/doing-business/

FAQs – Community Q&A


At the AHDP Community Meeting on February 3, 2025, attendees were encouraged to submit written questions and comments for AHDP and the state to address in real time. Here's one relating to preserving and perpetuating the Hawaiian culture: 


Q: What are the plans to re-establish (association, relationship, connection) to the land and ensure proper management of environmental resources?


Will you honor Hawaiian names without shortening them?


A: The most fundamental part of AHDP’s plans is respect for the surrounding communities, residents and culture that have defined Hālawa. Already, AHDP is grateful to the community and cultural leaders who have welcomed them into their homes and on their land to learn how AHDP’s work can preserve what is most precious here and ensure authenticity in the activities and spaces they create.


The heart of NASED’s entertainment district will honor the spirit of pilina through cultural programs and activities that engage kamaʻāina and visitors alike, such as through a cultural museum in partnership with the Polynesian Voyaging Society that perpetuates the art and science of wayfinding; a Hawaiʻi Music Hall of Fame and interactive stations throughout its public spaces that treat listeners to curated playlists and offer hands-on exhibits to learn about mele and oli and the oral history of our islands.


AHDP’s project partners at WCIT Architecture ensure not only authenticity in cultural approach to design, but an intimate knowledge about the history of Hālawa and ways the ʻāina wishes to be restored so that we are worthy stewards of her resources. The same is true of its intentions to appropriately and accurately use ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi in signage and wayfinding.


AHDP has incorporated energy conservation and natural resource conservation into every level of its plan, especially with respect to water. AHDP’s vision for the NASED project includes waste and storm water recycling and reuse to reduce the water and sewer needs of the project. It currently plans to utilize reclaimed water for irrigation (both on and off site), toilet flushing and building cooling systems. 

In The News

NASED Radio Hour - May Edition

Stadium Authority Chair Brennon Morioka and Interim Stadium Manager Chris Sadayasu spoke with Rick Hamada on KHVH recently to discuss the latest on the status of the NASED project. Listen to the full episode here.

Governor Josh Green gives NASED Update on KHON

The Governor was interviewed recently on KHON on a variety of topics. He gave an update on his efforts to secure additional funding for the NASED project and discussed why Hawai'i deserves a top-tier venue like NASED. Watch the full interview here.

What's Going on at Aloha Stadium

Call for Artists: Transform Stadium History into Lasting Public Art


The Stadium Authority in partnership with the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace is seeking local artists to be part of a one-of-a-kind opportunity: the Walls of Legacy: Aloha Stadium Sculpture Challenge.

 

This exciting public art contest invites Hawai'i-based artists to imagine and transform pieces of the original corrugated metal field wall into an iconic, photo-worthy sculpture or wall installation. One final sculpture will be selected and installed as part of the new nostalgic landmark within the Swap Meet grounds, offering a lasting tribute to the stadium’s 47-year legacy.



“This is a chance for artists to literally shape history,” said Chris J. Sadayasu, Interim Stadium Manager. “We’re taking a piece of Aloha Stadium’s past and giving it new life as an artistic landmark for our future paying homage to the rich history through generations.”

 

Local artists interested in participating are encouraged to inquire now to receive full contest details, timeline, and submission instructions.

 

In addition to a stipend, the selected artist will receive a Grand Prize of $1,000, along with their work displayed at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace as a lasting tribute to the stadium’s legacy.

 

If you/your group are interested in participating, please visit https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/main/legacywall/

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


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, the 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/.  

Swap Meet & Marketplace Hours


Wednesday & Saturday: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.


Sunday: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Swap Meet & Marketplace Relocation Work

Continues in Upper Hālawa Lot


Progress continues at the Aloha Stadium Upper Hālawa Lot as MEI Corporation leads ongoing site improvement efforts in preparation for the Swap Meet & Marketplace relocation.


Over the past few weeks, underground utility work has made steady headway, and the next phase is now underway. Seal coating and pavement striping have officially begun, with crews working diligently to complete the surface treatments that will define new stall and pedestrian areas. In addition to surface improvements, underground electrical installations and other foundational tasks remain ongoing.


We appreciate your continued support and patience during this transition and look forward to unveiling a refreshed Swap Meet & Marketplace experience in the near future!

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Ho'okipa Entertainer Spotlight: 


Noah Hull, aka Noah Plays Piano


If you’ve ever strolled through the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace and heard the sweet sound of piano music floating through the air, chances are it was coming from Noah Hull — better known as Noah Plays Piano. A Nā Hōkū Hanohano finalist, Noah’s been playing piano for almost 20 years, and you can feel that heart and experience in every note.


Noah plays for the pure joy of it. His music blends his own original compositions with beautiful covers of today’s hits — and if you haven’t checked out his debut album Reflections, you’re missing out. It’s the kind of music that makes you stop, listen, and feel something.


You can catch Noah doing his thing a few times a month at the Ho‘okipa Hale stage (Section 8) — right in the heart of the Swap Meet’s entertainment and food court area. Whether you’re grabbing grinds from one of our 'ono food trucks or just cooling off in the shade, Noah’s music brings chill vibes and a whole lot of Aloha to your day.


Ho‘okipa Hale is where it’s at — live local music, hula, good food, and plenty of seats to relax and enjoy the show. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from shopping and soak in the spirit of Hawai‘i.


Noah’s also excited about what’s ahead. Like many of us, he’s looking forward to the relocation of the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace to the Upper Hālawa Lot later this summer. We’re excited to have him continue to share his music and good vibes in this new space as everything transitions and grows. So next time you’re at the Swap Meet, swing by Ho‘okipa Hale and see why Noah Plays Piano has become a crowd favorite. It’s local talent like his that keeps the music — and the Aloha — going strong.

Upcoming Performance Dates:


Saturday, June 7

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wednesday, June 25

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.


Sunday, June 29

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

For a complete list of all entertainment visit


https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/aloha-stadium-swap-meet-marketplace/events-entertainment/

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



Our inaugural collage takes you on a nostalgic journey through the many faces and moments that define Aloha Stadium. From high-energy football games and monster truck rallies to local concerts, keiki activities, and special community events, each image reflects the diversity and spirit of the gatherings held over the past 47 years. Whether it's fans in jerseys, mascots spreading cheer, or community teams celebrating on the field, this month’s collage captures the joy, pride, and shared memories that have made Aloha Stadium Hawai'i's gathering place.

In the Community

HO'OMAIKA'I C/O 2025

🎓 Congratulations to the Class of 2025! 🎉


Aloha Stadium would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Haylee Fujimoto, one of our very own, for graduating from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Shidler College of Business! Since May 2023, Haylee has been a valued member of our marketing team—managing our social media accounts and helping to coordinate events with creativity and dedication. We are incredibly proud of all she has accomplished and wish her continued success in the journey ahead.


We also want to recognize and celebrate all the graduating Seniors across the island for their achievements. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have brought you to this special milestone—an achievement to be proud of as you move forward into the next chapter.


Congratulations, Class of 2025! 🌺

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