1. Pearl Harbor Attack Anniversary: December 28 marks the anniversary of the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, which brought the United States into World War II. The attack on this day was particularly brutal, with several ships sinking and over 2,400 people losing their lives. The attack is still remembered as a significant event in Hawaii's history.

2. Formation of the Territory of Hawaii: On December 28, 1846, King Kamehameha III declared Hawaii a territory of the United States, which paved the way for eventual statehood. This decision was controversial at the time, as some Hawaiians felt that it undermined their sovereignty, but it ultimately set the stage for the modern state of Hawaii.

3. University of Hawaii Established: The University of Hawaii was founded on December 28, 1907, as a land-grant college for the study of agriculture, mechanics, and mining. Today, it has grown into a comprehensive research university that serves over 18,000 students across numerous campuses.

4. Lahaina Whaling Days: December 28 is also the first day of the annual Lahaina Whaling Days festival, which celebrates the town's history as a major whaling port in the 19th century. The festival features live music, food, and crafts, as well as educational exhibits about the whaling industry and its impact on Hawaii.

5. Surfing Contests: Hawaii is known for its world-class surfing, and December is prime season for big-wave contests. On December 28, many of the best surfers in the world gather to compete in the Billabong Pipe Masters, a prestigious event held at the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore. The contest has been running since 1971 and is a highlight of the surfing calendar.