Chinatown is plagued with many problems, but merchants and organizations in the district are banding together to revitalize the area and the first sign of it is a Christmas in Chinatown party set for the afternoon of Dec. 5 at Kekaulike Mall and Marketplace.

Sponsors 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. According to a press release issued jointly by these groups, unlicensed vendors, congestion, noise, unsightly food refuse, general sanitation and the lack of public restrooms all are of concern and will be addressed with upcoming initiatives.
But for now, they're inviting the public to bring the family for an enjoyable afternoon including a lion dance, a visit from Santa Claus (actually State. Rep. Karl Rhodes), presents for the kids, entertainment, "snow" at Kekaulike Mall, a parade from Açala Park along King Street to Honolulu Hale.
Hours are 3 to 6 p.m.

Park in municipal lots on Smith and on 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.