On December 22, 1871, Lot Kapuāiwa, Kamehameha V, established a holiday to honor his grandfather, Kamehameha I, the great aliʻi who united the
Hawaiian Islands. By royal proclamation, June 11 was designated as a day of remembrance and celebration in his honor.
The first Lā Kamehameha celebration was held on Tuesday, June 11, 1872. Streets and shops throughout Honolulu were emptied as people gathered at
Kulaokahua to join the festivities. The celebration began at 10:00 AM with the arrival of Queen Emma, King Kapuāiwa, and their entourage. Early festivities
included fairs, carnivals, horse races, and community gatherings.
Today, communities across Hawaiʻi continue this cherished tradition through lei draping ceremonies, hula, music, and parades that celebrate Hawaiians a day of culture, heritage and pride.
Since early last century, a Kamehameha Day celebration has occurred at the original statue located here in North Kohala. With great pride and as the birth place of the king, Kohala has become the only celebration to occur on June 11, the date designated as his birthday. Kohala’s celebration is the premier event to honor Hawaiian history and to acknowledge our host culture. The event is organized to celebrate, honor, preserve and share Kohala’s cultural heritage. Check out the website if you need more information.
Des Hooton: lokelanihooton@gmail.com
http://www.kamehamehadaycelebration.org/
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