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

• Kahanuola Instagram
• Hawaii News Now Facebook
• The Brothers Cazimero
• Keauhou Website
• Keauhou Instagram
• Keauhou Facebook

Travel Pono (responsibly)

• Pono Pledge Website
• HawaiiCovid19.com/travel
• Safe Travels Program: Episode 50
• Traveling to Hawaii Responsibly: Episode 55

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This podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a vacation to the Hawaiian islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)

Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)