Outrigger Hotels and Resorts is gearing up for its 14th annual Waikiki SPAM JAM Festival, a lively community event that draws more than 25,000 visitors each year. Scheduled for April 30, the festival celebrates a beloved local ingredient with a variety of dishes from Honolulu restaurants, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
At the heart of the festival is a spirit of giving. Guests who stay at Outrigger Resorts or OHANA Hotels during the event can receive a complimentary room upgrade when they bring and donate a can of SPAM to the Hawaii Foodbank. This simple gesture helps support local families and individuals in need while encouraging participation in the community celebration.
“The Waikiki SPAM JAM Festival is a wonderful celebration of a local staple that is intertwined with Hawaiʻi’s history and culture,” said Barbara Campbell, vice president of retail leasing and development for Outrigger Enterprises Group. “Food has a way of bringing people together, and Outrigger is proud to help gather the community for such a fun event that benefits the local families and individuals who receive support from the Hawaii Foodbank.”
Admission to the Waikiki SPAM JAM Festival is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring canned food donations. All contributions collected at the event will benefit the Hawaii Foodbank, the Waikiki Community Center, and the Visitor Aloha Society. These organizations work together to distribute food, provide community services, and offer support to visitors and residents in need.
The festival offers more than just food sampling. Visitors can expect live music and performances that reflect Hawaiʻi’s diverse culture, interactive demonstrations, and opportunities to meet local chefs and vendors. The event provides a chance to enjoy island flavors, learn about regional cooking traditions, and experience the warmth of Waikiki’s community spirit.
Outrigger Hotels and Resorts has a long history of engaging with the local community through events like SPAM JAM. By partnering with charitable organizations and encouraging donations, the company blends hospitality with social responsibility. The complimentary upgrade promotion for donating a can of SPAM is one example of how Outrigger encourages guests to contribute to local relief efforts while enjoying their stay.
Visitors planning to attend are advised to arrive early to make the most of the food offerings and entertainment schedule. The festival’s popularity means vendors often serve special creations that sell out, so early arrival increases the chance to try a wider variety of dishes. Families will find activities suitable for children as well as programming that highlights Hawaiian music and dance.
Overall, the Waikiki SPAM JAM Festival is a vibrant expression of local taste and communal generosity. With free admission, live performances, and a clear focus on supporting local charities, the event provides both residents and visitors an engaging way to celebrate Hawaiian culinary culture while giving back to the island community.