Chinatown merchants and organizations in the district are banding together to address problems and revitalize the area, and the first sign of it is a Christmas in Chinatown party this afternoon at Kekaulike Mall and Marketplace.

Concerns about unlicensed vendors, congestion and noise, general sanitation issues and the lack of public restrooms all are of concern and will be addressed, according to a press release sent out jointly by sponsors that include the Honolulu Chinese Jaycees, the Honolulu Culture & Arts District, the Arts District Merchants' Association, the Chinatown Historical Society, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and the Chinatown Business and Merchants' Association.
But work has also been done to clean up the Kekaulike Mall, and community leaders invite the public to bring the family from 3 to 6 p.m. for an enjoyable afternoon including a lion dance, a visit from Santa Claus (actually state Rep. Karl Rhoads), presents for the kids, entertainment, "snow" at Kekaulike Mall and a parade from 'A'ala Park along King Street to Honolulu Hale.
Park in municipal lots on Bethel, Smith and Beretania for best prices; there are 10 lots throughout Chinatown. Be in place by 5 p.m. to watch the parade; North King Street closes at Liliha at 5:30 p.m. and remains closed until 7:30 p.m.
— Wanda Adams