Lei Day, celebrated annually on May 1st, is more than just a festive occasion in Hawaii; it’s a profound expression of Aloha, a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture, and a symbol of the islands’ unique identity. This day is dedicated to the lei, a garland or necklace of flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, feathers or nuts, that beautifully represents love, respect, and affection. It’s a day where the spirit of Aloha flourishes, reminding both residents and visitors of the beauty and cultural richness that defines Hawaii.
The Origins and History of Lei Day
The concept of Lei Day was born in the 1920s, a time when Hawaii was transitioning and seeking to preserve its cultural identity amidst rapid modernization. The idea originated with Don Blanding, a poet and writer who moved to Hawaii in 1915. He envisioned a day dedicated to the lei, a cherished symbol of Hawaiian hospitality and affection. He proposed the idea to a local newspaper columnist, Grace Tower Warren, who then coined the name “Lei Day” and wrote an influential article promoting the concept.
The first official Lei Day was celebrated on May 1, 1928. It was an immediate success, capturing the hearts of the Hawaiian people. The celebration was held at the Bank of Hawaii in downtown Honolulu, and featured lei-making demonstrations, hula performances, and music. The significance of May 1st was chosen because it fell between two already established festive periods – the end of the tourist season and the beginning of summer.
Over the years, Lei Day has evolved, becoming deeply ingrained in Hawaiian tradition. It’s now a statewide celebration, with each island hosting its own unique events, reflecting the diverse natural beauty and cultural nuances of each locale.
The Significance of the Lei
The lei is far more than just a decorative adornment in Hawaiian culture; it holds deep symbolic meaning. It represents Aloha, which encompasses love, compassion, peace, and affection. Giving a lei is an act of expressing these sentiments, offered with sincerity and respect. The type of lei, the materials used, and the way it is presented can all add layers of meaning to this simple yet powerful gesture.
Different islands are associated with specific lei colors and flowers. For example, the island of Oahu is known for the ilima lei, a delicate and golden-yellow flower. The island of Kauai is reowned for the mokihana berry lei, while Maui is famous for the lokelani rose lei. These island flower associations are part of the diverse cultural heritage that makes Hawaii so unique.
The act of giving and receiving a lei is a tradition steeped in respect. Traditionally, one should accept a lei with both hands and never refuse it, as this is considered disrespectful. When wearing a lei, it should be allowed to hang naturally and not be taken off in the presence of the person who gave it to you, unless you have a specific reason to do so, such as being allergic to the materials.
Lei Day Celebrations Across the Islands
Each Hawaiian island puts its own special touch on Lei Day celebrations, offering a diverse array of events that showcase their unique cultural heritage.
Oahu: The Heart of Lei Day
Oahu, being the most populated island and where Lei Day originated, often hosts the largest and most elaborate celebrations. The main event typically takes place at Kapiolani Park in Honolulu. Here, you can witness stunning lei-making contests, where artisans display incredible skill and creativity in their floral designs. These are not just simple flower necklaces; they are intricate works of art, often incorporating native plants and traditional patterns. You’ll also find a royal court procession, featuring the Lei Queen and her princesses, dressed in elegant attire and representing the spirit of Aloha.
Beyond Kapiolani Park, many other venues across Oahu host Lei Day activities. The Bishop Museum, for instance, often has special exhibits showcasing the history and artistry of lei-making. Local schools often host their own Lei Day pageants and celebrations, providing an opportunity for students to learn about and participate in the tradition.
Practical Tip: Arrive early to Kapiolani Park to secure a good viewing spot for the lei-making contest and royal court procession. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Also, consider taking public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking can be limited.
Maui: The Valley Isle’s Floral Tribute
Maui’s Lei Day celebrations are known for their laid-back atmosphere and emphasis on local culture. Events are typically held in various locations across the island, including parks, community centers, and hotels. The emphasis is generally on celebrating the lokelani rose, Maui’s official flower, and you’ll often find workshops on how to craft a lei with this beautiful bloom.
One notable event on Maui is the annual Lei Day celebration at the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku. This event features lei-making demonstrations, traditional Hawaiian music, hula performances, and local food vendors. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and enjoy the beauty of the islands.
Practical Tip: Check local event listings in the weeks leading up to Lei Day to find detailed information on specific events and locations on Maui. Consider taking a lei-making workshop to learn the art of lei-making from a local expert.
Kauai: The Garden Isle’s Verdant Festivities
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle for its lush landscapes, celebrates Lei Day with a focus on the natural beauty of the island. Celebrations often take place in parks and gardens, showcasing the abundance of native flowers and plants. You’ll often see intricate lei made from the mokihana berry, Kauai’s signature lei material.
The Kauai Museum in Lihue is a central hub for Lei Day activities. They often host lei-making demonstrations, cultural exhibits, and performances. Additionally, many smaller community events take place in towns across the island, offering a chance to experience the local spirit of Aloha.
Practical Tip: Explore the local farmer’s markets on Kauai to discover a wide variety of flowers and plants that can be used in lei-making. Ask local artisans for tips on how to create a beautiful and traditional lei. Check with the Kauai Museum for their Lei Day schedule and offerings.
Hawaii Island (The Big Island): A Celebration of Volcanoes and Flora
The Big Island, with its diverse landscapes ranging from volcanic deserts to tropical rainforests, offers a unique backdrop for Lei Day celebrations. Events are often held in parks and community centers in both Hilo and Kona, showcasing the island’s unique floral heritage. While not having a specific island flower, the lehua is closely associated with Pele, the volcano goddess, and is therefore often incorporates into lei making.
The Lyman Museum in Hilo often features exhibits on native Hawaiian plants and their uses in lei-making. Additionally, many hotels and resorts host their own Lei Day events, offering guests a chance to participate in the festivities. The celebration in Kona tends to be smaller and more intimate, often featuring local musicians and hula dancers.
Practical Tip: Visit Volcanoes National Park to learn about the unique plants that thrive in volcanic environments. Check the Lyman Museum’s website for their Lei Day schedule. Given the island’s size, plan your day carefully based on which side of the island you are staying on.
Making Your Own Lei: A Step-by-Step Guide
One of the best ways to truly experience Lei Day is to make your own lei. It’s a simple yet rewarding activity that connects you with Hawaiian culture and allows you to express your creativity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a basic flower lei:
- Gather Your Materials: You’ll need fresh flowers (plumeria, orchids, carnations, or any other blooms you like), a lei needle (a long, sturdy needle designed for lei-making), and strong thread or string. You can find lei needles and thread at most craft stores or floral supply shops in Hawaii. Flowers can be purchased at flower shops, farmer’s markers, or even gathered from your own garden (if you have permission, of course!).
- Prepare the Flowers: Remove the stems from the flowers, leaving only the blossoms. If using flowers with a calyx (the green part at the base of the flower), you can trim it slightly to make it easier to thread the needle through.
- Thread the Needle: Thread the lei needle with a length of string that is long enough to create the desired length of the lei. Double the string for added strength. Tie a knot at the end of the string to prevent the flowers from slipping off.
- String the Flowers: Hold a flower in your hand and insert the lei needle through the center of the blossom, starting from the front and exiting through the back. Gently slide the flower down the string. Repeat this process with each flower, pushing them close together on the string to create a full and beautiful lei.
- Tie the Ends: Once you’ve strung enough flowers to create the desired length of the lei, carefully remove the needle and tie the two ends of the string together securely. Trim any excess string.
- Present Your Lei: Your lei is now ready to be given or worn! Remember to present it with Aloha, offering it with love and respect.
Cost: The cost of making your own lei can vary depending on the type and quantity of flowers you use. You can purchase a bouquet of flowers for around $10-$20 at a local flower shop or farmer’s market. A lei needle and thread typically cost a few dollars.
Recommendation: For a more durable lei, consider using artificial flowers. While they may not have the same fragrance as fresh flowers, they will last much longer and can be reused for future Lei Day celebrations.
Lei-Making Workshops: Learning from the Experts
If you’re looking to take your lei-making skills to the next level, consider participating in a lei-making workshop. These workshops are offered by various organizations and individuals throughout Hawaii. They provide a hands-on learning experience, where you can learn about the different types of lei, the traditional techniques used in lei-making, and the cultural significance of the lei.
Many hotels and resorts offer lei-making workshops as part of their guest activities. Community centers and cultural organizations also host workshops, often taught by experienced lei-makers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and skills. The cost of a lei-making workshop can vary depending on the length of the workshop, the materials provided, and the instructor’s experience.
Practical Example: Check with the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu. They offer various demonstrations and workshops that highlight different aspects of Polynesian culture, including lei-making.
The Royal Court: A Symbol of Hawaiian Heritage
A highlight of many Lei Day celebrations is the presentation of the Royal Court. This regal procession features a Lei Queen and her princesses, adorned in elegant attire and beautiful lei. The Royal Court represents the Hawaiian monarchy and symbolizes the preservation of Hawaiian heritage and traditions. The members of the Royal Court are typically chosen for their knowledge of Hawaiian culture, their commitment to perpetuating Hawaiian values, and their grace and poise. The selection process is often a rigorous one, involving interviews, cultural presentations, and demonstrations of hula and other traditional arts.
The Royal Court plays a prominent role in Lei Day celebrations, participating in parades, lei-giving ceremonies, and cultural performances. They serve as ambassadors of Aloha, spreading the spirit of love and respect throughout the community.
The Lei Queen: An Embodiment of Aloha
The Lei Queen is the central figure of the Royal Court, embodying the spirit of Aloha. She is chosen not only for her beauty but also for her deep understanding of Hawaiian culture and her commitment to perpetuating its traditions. She acts as the primary ambassador for Lei Day, representing the values and traditions of the occasion.
The Colors and Flowers of Lei Day: A Visual Symphony
The colors and flowers used in lei on Lei Day are not arbitrary; they often carry symbolic meaning and reflect the unique characteristics of each island. The selection of flowers is crucial in creating a visually stunning and culturally significant lei.
For example, yellow is often associated with royalty and represents the island of Oahu, where the ilima flower is a symbol of royal heritage. Green is associated with the island of Kauai, the Garden Isle, representing its lush landscapes and fertile valleys. Red, the color of passion and strength, is often associated with the island of Hawaii (the Big Island) and the volcanic energy of Kilauea. Pink, representing love and compassion, is often associated with the island of Maui, known for its lokelani rose.
The scent of the flowers is also an important consideration. Plumeria, with its sweet and intoxicating fragrance, is a popular choice for lei, symbolizing love and beauty. Pikake, with its delicate and jasmine-like scent, is another favorite, representing romance and affection. Tuberose, with its strong and heady fragrance, is often used in lei for special occasions, symbolizing purity and devotion.
Preserving Lei: Keeping the Aloha Alive
One of the challenges with fresh flower lei is their relatively short lifespan. However, there are several ways to preserve your lei and keep the Aloha alive for longer. Here are a few tips:
- Refrigeration: The simplest way to preserve a lei is to refrigerate it. Place the lei in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This will help to keep the flowers fresh for a few days.
- Spritzing with Water: Lightly misting the lei with water can help to keep the flowers hydrated. Be careful not to over-water the lei, as this can cause the flowers to rot.
- Drying: Certain types of lei, such as those made from dried flowers or shells, can be preserved by simply drying them. Hang the lei in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Resin Preservation: For a more permanent preservation, you can encapsulate the lei in resin. This will create a beautiful and lasting keepsake.
Beyond physical preservation, the memories and sentiments associated with the lei can be preserved through photos, stories, and shared experiences. The act of giving and receiving a lei is a moment that can be cherished for a lifetime.
Beyond the Flowers: The Cultural Significance of Lei Day
While the lei is the central symbol of Lei Day, the celebration encompasses much more than just flowers. It’s a reminder to embrace the values of Aloha, to cherish Hawaiian culture, and to connect with the spirit of the islands.
On Lei Day, you’ll often see people wearing muʻumuʻu, traditional Hawaiian dresses, and aloha shirts, colorful shirts with Hawaiian prints. These garments are a visible expression of Hawaiian pride and add to the festive atmosphere of the day.
The sounds of Hawaiian music fill the air on Lei Day, with traditional songs and contemporary tunes celebrating the beauty of the islands and the spirit of Aloha. Hula performances, with their graceful movements and storytelling lyrics, are another integral part of the celebration.
Beyond the formal celebrations, Lei Day is also a time for families and friends to come together and share the Aloha spirit. It’s a day for picnics, potlucks, and gatherings where people can connect with each other and celebrate the beauty of Hawaiian culture. Many families use the day to teach children about lei making, the importance of floral selection, and the unique properties of each flower and plant.
Practical Tip: Attend a local hula performance to experience the beauty and storytelling of this traditional Hawaiian dance. Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases, such as “Aloha” (hello, love, affection) and “Mahalo” (thank you), to express your appreciation for Hawaiian culture.
Lei Day in Modern Hawaii
In modern Hawaii, Lei Day continues to be an important cultural celebration, reminding residents and visitors alike of the unique beauty and traditions of the islands. The spirit of Aloha is alive and well on Lei Day, offering a reminder of the values that shape Hawaiian society.
Lei Day is also an opportunity to support local businesses and artisans. By purchasing lei from local lei-makers and attending local events, you can contribute to the economic well-being of the community and help to preserve Hawaiian culture for future generations.
Practical Tip: Choose to buy lei ingredients from local markets and growers. This ensures the freshest items and helps support local farmers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lei Day
What is the proper way to wear a lei?
A lei should be worn draped over the shoulders, hanging down in front. It should be worn with respect and never refused when offered. Taking a lei off in front of the person who gave it to you is considered disrespectful, unless you have a specific reason, such as an allergy.
What is the significance of the different flowers used in lei?
Different flowers carry different meanings. Plumeria symbolizes love and beauty, pikake represents romance, orchids represent love and beauty, and ilima symbolizes royalty. The specific meanings can vary depending on the cultural context and the individual making the lei.
Can anyone participate in Lei Day celebrations?
Absolutely! Lei Day is open to everyone, both residents and visitors. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Hawaiian culture and celebrate the spirit of Aloha. All are welcome to participate in the festivities and learn about the traditions of lei-making and Hawaiian culture.
Where can I find Lei Day celebrations in Hawaii?
Lei Day celebrations take place on all of the Hawaiian islands. Check local event listings, community calendars, and hotel websites for specific events and locations. The main celebrations typically take place in parks, community centers, and cultural institutions. You might also ask at visitor centers and hotel front desks for the latest information.
Is it appropriate to give a lei to someone I just met?
Yes, giving a lei to someone you just met is a gesture of Aloha and welcome. It’s a way to express your hospitality and friendship. The lei is a symbol of affection and respect, and it’s always appropriate to give one with sincerity and Aloha.
References
- MacDonald, Marie A. “Lei Day in Hawai’i”. Honolulu: Bess Press, 2007.
- Kanahele, George S. Hawaiian Music and Musicians: An Illustrated History. Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press, 1979.
- Pukui, Mary Kawena, E. W. Haertig, and Zelia Huber. The Polynesian Family System in Kaʻu, HawaiʻI. Rutland, VT: Charles E. Tuttle Company, 1972.
Now that you’ve learned about the magic of Lei Day, are you ready to experience it firsthand? Plan your trip to Hawaii for May 1st and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, fragrant flowers, and heartwarming Aloha spirit. Whether you attend a grand celebration at Kapiolani Park, create your own lei, or simply wear a lei with pride, you’ll be part of a beautiful tradition that embodies the essence of Hawaiian culture. Don’t just read about it – live it! Book your flight, pack your bags, and get ready to celebrate Lei Day in the heart of paradise!
