On this episode of Hawaii’s Best, Bryan talks with good friend of the pod and (unofficial) Cultural Practitioner for Hawaii's Best, Kahanuola Solatorio --> hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode60 <-- about the importance of Lei Day in Hawaii. We even hear about his band Keauhou, which plays at the holiday every year, and who you can watch remotely this year!
Lei Day happens on the 1st of May every year, lasting until the next day. It has existed as a holiday since the late 1920s when American Poet Don Blanding wrote a newspaper article stating that the production and wearing of leis is culturally significant and needs a holiday dedicated to it.
Depending on the occasion, a lei can be given as a greeting, a goodbye, a thank-you, or an expression of love. Each island of Hawaii has its own flower that represents that island, so you’ll see a different color scheme and emphasis in the craft of the leis depending on where you are.
The tradition of a live concert on Lei Day was first established by the well-known Hawaiian musical act, The Brothers Cazimero. Years after, they passed the honor to Keauhou, the band Kanhanuola plays in, who has been playing at the event for the past three years.
You can participate virtually in the festivities this year as well, by checking out the online event at 7 pm (Hawaiian time) on Facebook live at Facebook.com/HawaiiNewsNow - don’t forget to wear a lei, and give one to someone you love!
Episode Resources
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About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight.
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Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island.
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