Since 1998, the Waikiki Holiday Parade commemorates Pearl Harbor Survivors and the anniversary of the attacks. The mission of the event is to educate students on this important piece of U.S. history and preserving Polynesian culture. It also ushers in the holiday season for locals. The week of events and performances on the island, as well as months of preparations leading up to the trip, give students a unique learning experience that they will not soon forget. Thousands of spectators, residents and visitors gather on the Friday after Thanksgiving to watch this non-competitive parade, which hosts local bands, marching bands from the mainland, Pearl Harbor Survivors, service bands, military units, local officials, dignitaries and entertainers.