The Soul of a Celebration

Every June 11, Hawaiʻi honors its great king. While people celebrate on all islands, North Kohala's celebration is the most real. It happens in the king's homeland. It centers on the original statue. The traditions have been passed down for generations.

5:30 AM - Sunrise Protocol

The day starts before dawn with a sacred ceremony. This isn't a show for tourists. It's real spiritual practice. It opens with prayers. The deep call of the pū conch shell. The beat of drums. Cultural groups and hula schools present chants and hula as gifts to the aliʻi.

The Kohala ceremony is special. It honors the important women in Kamehameha's life. His mother Kekuʻiapoiwa. His foster mother Kahaʻōpulani. His sacred wife Keōpūolani. Visitors can watch but should stay quiet and respectful.

8:00 AM - Procession of the Royal Societies

As the sun rises, formal groups arrive. The Royal Order of Kamehameha. Nā Wahine 'O Kamehameha. The ʻAhahui Kaʻahumanu Society. The Daughters of Hawaiʻi. Hawaiian Civic Clubs. They wear full regalia. They show the event's deep roots.

9:00 AM - The Lei Draping Ceremony

This is the visual heart of the morning. Huge 20-foot lei made from fresh flowers and ti leaves are placed on the king's arms. The protocol in Kohala is unique. The lei are lifted with long traditional poles called lei piko. No person's hand goes above the aliʻi's head. No lei touches his sacred feather cloak.

9:00 AM Onward - Floral Parade & Hoʻolauleʻa

After the sacred parts, the celebration spreads through the community. The Akoni Pule Highway closes for a beautiful parade. It winds through Kapaʻau and nearby Hawi. You'll see pāʻū riders - women on horses in elegant riding gowns. Floral floats. Local marching bands.

Then everyone goes to Kamehameha Park for a hoʻolauleʻa. This is a grand festival with live Hawaiian music. Local food. Arts and crafts booths. It lasts all afternoon. Families come together. Visitors become part of the ʻohana.