Lei Day in the United States

Lei Day is a Hawaiian celebration held on May 1st each year to honor Hawaiian culture and the tradition of making and wearing lei. It is primarily observed in the state of Hawaii but has also been celebrated by people of Hawaiian heritage in other parts of the United States.

History:

• Origin: Lei Day was first proposed in 1927 by poet Don Blanding, and the first Lei Day was celebrated on May 1, 1928.
• Establishment: The idea was embraced by the local community, and Grace Tower Warren, another Honolulu resident, suggested that the holiday coincide with May Day. She is also credited with coming up with the phrase "May Day is Lei Day."

Traditions:

• Lei Making: A key tradition involves crafting lei, which are garlands or wreaths often made from flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, nuts, feathers, or even bone and teeth of various animals.
• Lei Wearing: People wear these lei as a symbol of affection and aloha (love).
• Competitions: There are lei-making competitions where artisans showcase their skills.
• Music & Dance: Hawaiian music and hula performances are central to Lei Day celebrations.
• Ceremonies & Festivities: The day often includes cultural demonstrations, exhibitions of Hawaiian culture and artistry, as well as ceremonies that may involve crowning a Lei Queen.

What People Do:

On Lei Day:

• Participants make or purchase lei to wear and give to others.
• Communities gather for picnics and parties where they share traditional food.
• Schools may have special programs teaching students how to make lei or learning about Hawaiian culture.
• Public ceremonies often include music performances featuring ukuleles and slack-key guitars.

Overall, Lei Day serves as a reminder of Hawaii's rich traditions and provides an opportunity for people to celebrate the aloha spirit through communal activities centered around love for nature's beauty.