Why King Kamehameha Day is So Special on Hawaii Island
Posted by Maris on 6th May 2024
If you're not physically in Hawaii at the moment, this weekend is noteworthy in the Aloha State. This place on Hawaii Island is the most crucial place in Hawaii. This Sunday is King Kamehameha Day, which is observed on June 11 every year.
King Kamehameha Day has big significance on the Big Island
After a string of bloody conflicts, King Kamehameha, who was born in 1758 on the Big Island, united all of the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 to become the first king of Hawaii. In 1871, when Hawaii was still a sovereign state, King Kamehameha V, his great-grandson, declared Kamehameha Day a national holiday.
Large fairs and sporting events were held on every island to commemorate. Since it is now a recognized state holiday, many local businesses close, along with state and county agencies.
A Hawaiian kahuna said that if Kamehameha constructed the enormous Puukohola Heiau, he would be the first to govern over the entire state of Hawaii. It really is amazing!
Kamehameha constructed the magnificent Pu'ukohola heiau (religious temple) dedicated to the fighting deity Ku, which is located just up the coast from Hualalai Resort. According to legend, Kamehameha would control all of Hawaii if he constructed the enormous temple, which is currently a national historic site under the National Park Service. The prophecy was given by a kahuna (Hawaiian priest).
The small North Hawaii village of Kapa'au has a statue of King Kamehameha in the middle of the road that leads higher up the Kohala Coast. A festival, a floral march, and a 25-foot lei draped over the King Kamehameha Statue are all part of the King Kamehameha Day celebrations.
Known as the King's birthplace, North Kohala is well worth the day trip for its breathtaking beauty, and this Sunday's parade is not to be missed!
These kinds of fantastic, rich cultural events are what make people say, "Lucky we live in Hawaii!" Furthermore, it only takes a short trip up or down the coast to enjoy these activities if you reside in Hualalai Resort.
June 11th, King Kamehameha Day Celebration in Kapa'au
Annually taking place on June 11, which is officially recognized as King Kamehameha Day, the North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration consistently attracts a sizable crowd. One of the best things about living in Hawaii is definitely seeing this parade and taking in the events in this small community.
A festival, a floral parade including pa'u riders, and the hanging of a 25-foot lei over the King Kamehameha Statue in Kapa'au are among the festivities. Every parade participant gives ho'okupu, or ceremonial gifts, in honor of King Kamehameha I at the King Kamehameha statue in Kapa'au. The march begins at 9 a.m. near the intersection of Ho'ea Road and Akoni Pule Highway in Hawi.
The procession proceeds to Kamehameha Park, where a ho'olaulea (festival) is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.
June 10: Kona's King Kamehameha Day Parade and Festival
Additionally, a King Kamehameha Day celebration procession is scheduled for Saturday, June 10 at 9 a.m. in Kailua-Kona. The parade starts at Old Kona Airport Park and proceeds along Kuakini Highway before turning onto Ali'i Drive on Palani Road and concluding at the Royal Kona Resort.
A Hawaiian music and art festival is held at Hulihe'e Palace on parade day from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hula, cultural performers, Hawaiian crafts, food, live music, and more are all featured at the event!