Sullivan Family Library: Celebrating May Day

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Celebrating May Day

Leis are known as a symbol of Aloha in Hawaiʻi. These garlands of fragrant flowers are treasured cultural symbols crafted with great care both in the sourcing of materials and in the creation of the lei. Once woven together, it is believed that the mana (spirit) of the creator is interlaced within the lei and that when you give a lei, you are also giving a part of yourself with it.

Leis can be given and shared to mark nearly every occasion in the Islands. From celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, or graduations to events where you want to show love and support such as at funerals or when a coworker leaves for a new job. Leis are much more than just a string of flowers.

This year, we mark the 93rd annual celebration of Lei Day in Hawaiʻi. Traditionally, lei contests and draping ceremonies are held throughout the state at events marked with parades, entertainment, and the unveiling of the year's May Day Court.

Exhibit of lei at City Hall (no date). Honolulu, Hawaiʻi.
Photo: Hawaiʻi State Archives

Hula dancers dancing around Maypole (no date). Honolulu, Hawaiʻi.
Photo: Hawaiʻi State Archives

Lei Day Royal Court (no date). Honolulu, Hawaiʻi.
Photo: Hawaiʻi State Archives

This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual celebration is being put on hold. The State of Hawaiʻi Department of Parks & Recreation is asking that we celebrate May Day from home by draping a lei on your mailbox or your front door to honor first responders, essential workers, and those making difficult sacrifices during this pandemic for the sake of our community.