At Trader Vic’s, we love to celebrate the holidays with a tropical twist—and there’s no better phrase to capture that island spirit than Mele Kalikimaka!
You’ve probably heard it sung by Bing Crosby, backed by the sweet sounds of steel guitar, but this phrase is more than just a cheerful lyric—it’s a bridge between cultures and a festive nod to Hawaii’s unique history.
What Does “Mele Kalikimaka” Mean?
Mele Kalikimaka is the Hawaiian way of saying “Merry Christmas.”
Since the Hawaiian language does not include certain letters found in English (such as R and S), Hawaiian speakers adapted the English phrase into their own phonetic system.
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“Mele” translates to song or celebration
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“Kalikimaka” is a phonetic rendering of “Christmas”
So when you say “Mele Kalikimaka,” you’re spreading holiday cheer the island way!
A Deeper Tradition: Makahiki Season
While “Mele Kalikimaka” comes from more modern adaptations of Christmas, this time of year has long held meaning in traditional Hawaiian culture.
The winter season marks the arrival of Makahiki, the Hawaiian New Year. This celebration begins with the rising of the Makali‘i constellation (Pleiades) and honors Lonoikamakahiki, the god of fertility, agriculture, rainfall, and peace.
During Makahiki season, war ceased, tributes were given, and the focus shifted to gratitude, renewal, abundance, and community—values that resonate deeply with the holiday season we know today.
A Song That Brought the Phrase to the World
The phrase gained global popularity in 1949 when Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters recorded “Mele Kalikimaka,” bringing Hawaiian holiday cheer to the airwaves. Since then, it’s become a seasonal favorite, especially for those dreaming of a sun-soaked Christmas.
At Trader Vic’s, we like to think it’s the perfect soundtrack to a holiday Mai Tai, Hot Buttered Rum, or festive shared bowl.
From Our ʻOhana to Yours
This December, whether you’re gathering with friends for a holiday luau, clinking skull mugs by candlelight, or just adding a little island flair to your winter celebrations—Mele Kalikimaka from all of us at Trader Vic’s.
Warm wishes, bright spirits, and festive sips await.
