Uke Night was created by the team behind Calgary-based Honolua Ukuleles with a simple belief: playing music should feel welcoming, social, and fun — not intimidating or out of reach.
So many people wish they could play an instrument, but never quite get started. Between the cost of gear, formal lessons, and finding time to practice, learning music can feel overwhelming before it even begins.
Uke Night exists to change that. We've now taught hundreds of people — many of whom didn't think they were musical — and watched them leave playing real songs after just one night.
We designed the experience to show just how approachable music can be when people learn together in a relaxed, encouraging environment. No studios. No pressure. Just real songs, shared moments, and the joy of discovering that it's easier than you thought.
Meet Dave
Uke Night was created by Dave Simpson, founder of Honolua Ukuleles and a professional musician with over 20 years of experience in the musical instrument industry.
Dave has performed regularly across Alberta and worked with thousands of people who wanted to learn music but didn't know where to start. Over the past five years, he's taught hundreds of complete beginners through Uke Night — and watched people go from "I'm not musical" to playing real songs in a single evening.
Dave knows which songs resonate across generations. He knows how to make learning feel effortless. And he knows that most people who think they "can't" play music just need the right approach — and a little encouragement.
Uke Night events have sold out. People come back. And they bring friends.
Why the Ukulele?
The ukulele is one of the most accessible ways to start playing music. It's approachable, portable, and friendly — and it sounds great almost right away.
That's why we use it.
Uke Night isn't about becoming an expert. It's about lowering the barrier, getting right to the fun part, and helping people experience what it feels like to actually play music together.
Music brings people together.
Uke Night brings people together to make music.
About Honolua Ukuleles
Honolua Ukuleles was founded in Calgary, Alberta almost 10 years ago with the goal of designing well-made ukuleles that feel great to play and remain accessible to beginners.
We believe anyone who wants to learn should start on a real instrument — not something that feels like a toy. Through Honolua Ukuleles and Uke Night, we've helped thousands of people take their first steps into music with confidence — from complete beginners to seasoned players looking for their next instrument.
Giving Back
Giving back is an important part of what we do.
Through our partnership with Greenspark, we plant five trees with every ukulele sold, and with select models, we also help restore five kelp plants off the coast of British Columbia — supporting both land and ocean ecosystems.
It's one small way we try to make a positive impact while helping more people experience the joy of music.
If you'd like to learn more about the instruments behind Uke Night, you can visit Honolua Ukuleles to explore the collection.
