Lei Day

Lei Day is a Hawaiian holiday celebrated annually on May 1st. It is a celebration of Hawaiian culture and aloha spirit, primarily expressed through the making, giving, and wearing of leis.

The tradition was established in 1928, conceived by poet Don Blanding, who worked at the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. Blanding proposed the idea of a special day dedicated to the lei. Grace Tower Warren wrote an article about it, suggesting that it be celebrated on May 1st. The holiday's motto, "May Day is Lei Day in Hawai'i," was coined by Leonard "Red" Hawk.

The first Lei Day celebration was held at the Bank of Hawai'i in downtown Honolulu. Since then, celebrations have grown to include lei-making contests, pageants, hula performances, music, and food festivals. Schools and communities throughout the Hawaiian islands also host their own Lei Day events.

Different Hawaiian islands are associated with specific colors and flowers used in lei making. For example, O'ahu's lei is traditionally made with ilima flowers and is gold in color, while Kaua'i's lei is made of mokihana berries and is purple.

Lei Day is more than just a festive occasion; it represents the aloha spirit of love, peace, and compassion. The giving of a lei is a symbol of affection, respect, and welcome. It is an integral part of Hawaiian culture and a cherished tradition that connects people to the islands' history and heritage.