Known as the “Land of Enchantment,” Hawaii is a state located in the Pacific Ocean, 2,000 miles from the U.S. mainland. It is the only state in the United States that is not a part of North America and is also the only archipelago-type state in the world. For many people, the state of Hawaii is the epitome of relaxation and tranquility.
Boy’s Day
Celebrated in Hawaii for centuries, Boy’s Day is the first day of the fifth month. This day is known as Tango-no-seek, which translates to “First Day of the Horse.” The horse represents masculinity. Carp, on the other hand, is a symbol of success and a perfect example for a boy. It is cylindrical and long and represents the courage and determination of a boy.
The Hawaiian Chip Company in Kalihi has been serving the community since 1999. Their specials for Boy’s Day include a handmade Hawaiian koi ornament and taro chips. Another special is the Boy’s Day Chips with Bow & Tag, which combines sweet potato chips and taro. Whether you are looking for a traditional Hawaiian-style burger or a more exotic treat, you’ll find it at the Hawaiian Chip Company.
Statehood Day
In addition to Thanksgiving, the third Friday in August marks Statehood Day, a legal holiday in Hawaii. Hawaii officially became a state in 1959 and celebrates the day each year on the third Friday of the month. The first Statehood Day was held in 1969, and today, the celebration is held in honor of the historic moment. The state of Hawaii is the largest island in the Western Hemisphere. The islands are home to more than five million people, so there are many celebrations and events in Hawaii that celebrate this occasion.
Though it’s a holiday, it’s also a controversial one. Many Hawaii residents are divided on the holiday, with some calling it a protest, while others are happy to celebrate the day. In any event, many people celebrate the statehood of their island and are proud to be a part of it. The state government offices and many schools are closed on this day, as is most of the public. And even though the state government building is closed for the day, there are many events and celebrations to enjoy.
May Day
A tradition that has been around for centuries in Hawaii is May Day. This holiday is celebrated by wearing a lei, which is made of a flower. These colorful blooms are symbolic of a new beginning. The origin of this holiday is unclear, but the original Hawaiians presented them as offerings to the gods. It wasn’t until the mid-1920s that the tradition became so popular that writer Don Blanding encouraged the local newspaper to make May Day a day to wear a lei. In 1929, May Day was officially designated as Lei Day.
Today, the Hawaiian celebration combines traditional symbolism with modern pageantry. Some May Day symbols have associations with specific islands, and you’ll find many of them on Hawaii’s Big Island. Bajo, who hails from Wahiawa, Oahu, says she gathers the flowers herself. She notes that the lei’s craftsmanship is an important part of the tradition. It’s important to remember that each flower contains the mana of its creator, so if you give someone a lei, you’re giving them part of their creator as well.
Martin Luther King Day
On the first Monday of January, the State of Hawaii celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by honoring the civil rights leader. The Hawaii Tourism Authority commemorates Dr. King’s life and legacy by organizing a variety of community events and activities. The holiday is an opportunity to remember the leader’s legacy and promote nonviolent conflict resolution, economic security, and the eradication of poverty. It also encourages participation by the entire civilian and military population, including children and senior citizens.
For those wishing to celebrate this important day on the islands, there are several freebies available. Visitors can enjoy free admission to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Haleakala National Park on Monday, January 18.