Posted on: May 1, 2022
You might be familiar with May Day that happens each May 1st, but have you heard of Lei Day? Also celebrated on the first of May, Hawaiian Lei Day is a day to celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of the islands. Join your friends at The Pauli Family Condos at Wailea as we discover the beautiful intricacies of this flowery day. If you aren’t familiar with the culture and traditions of Hawaii, be sure to read our recent blog on the topic. If you want to know more about leis – keep reading!
Each island in Hawaii is represented by a different lei. This lei is comprised of different flora from the island it represents. Utilizing the sights and smells that envelop you as soon as you step foot on the beach, these leis are made by locals to evoke the senses. Everything from the flower, plants and shells to the colors used, all represent a unique part of Hawaiian culture. From school children to business executives, almost everyone participates and wears a lei. It’s time to dive into how each island is represented on Lei Day.
Hawaiian Leis by Island
Hawaii
- Island Color: Red
- Lei: Lehua – These flowers are thought to be sacred to Pele, the goddess of volcanos
Kauai
- Island Color: Purple
- Lei: Mokihana – Uniquely made from purplish berries strung together like beads
Lanai
- Island Color: Orange
- Lei: Kaunaoa – Formed from a light-orange parasitic vine gathered and twisted together
Maui
- Island Color: Pink
- Lei: Lokelani – A delicious yet delicately sweet-scented flower that fills the air with its aroma
Kaho’olawe
- Island Color: Gray or Silver
- Lei: Hinahina – Utilizes both the stem and the flower from a plant found on the beach of Kaho’olawe
O’ahu
- Island Color: Gold or Yellow
- Lei: ‘Ilima – Once only worn by the high chiefs, it is made from a very delicate paper like yellowish orange flower
Moloka’i
- Island Color: Green
- Lei: Kukui – A beautiful contrast of green leaves and white flowers braided together
Ni’ihau
- Island Color: White
- Lei: Pupu – Pierced pupu shells found along the shoreline are strung together to form this intricate lei
Lei Day on Maui
Just like the rest of Hawaii, the people of Maui love to celebrate Lei Day. With multiple events happening around the island, it’s a great time to learn more about the culture and agriculture of Maui. Check out these fun events happening around Wailea Ekahi Village and the rest of the island.
Featuring one of the biggest celebrations in all of Hawaii, the Bailey House Museum is the perfect spot to learn all about leis, Maui and Hawaii itself. From cultural demonstrations and live music to lei making workshops, it’s the perfect place to celebrate this fun floral holiday.
If you’re a music lover, this Lei Day celebration is perfect. Featuring some of Hawaii’s many talented musicians, this outdoor concert is literal music to your ears. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Maui while the smells of fragrant leis fill the air.
If you needed another reason to book your stay on Maui, here it is! With beautiful weather year-round, there truly isn’t a bad time to visit. Book your stay at The Pauli Family Condos at Wailea today. A hui hou – Until we meet again!