Big Island Honors King Kamehameha I

King Kamehameha I (c. 1758-1819), who was born on Hawaii and later united the Hawaiian Islands, became the first ruler of all of Hawaii.  Each year, he is honored in June throughout the Islands. On Hawaii’s “Big Island,” which was the original seat of the monarchy, the colorful festivities are dedicated to celebrating King Kam, as he is affectionately called today

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King Kamehameha I, Hawaii’s monarch who first united the Islands, is celebrated every year with festivals.

This year is the 144^th annual event paying tribute to this important, historic figure and part of larger, statewide festivities complete with parades, displays of traditional Hawaiian dance, music, chant, arts and crafts, cultural presentations, delicious food, and lots more.

Hawaii Island’s celebration begins in Hilo June 10 with the 5 p.m. lei draping ceremony at the King Kamehameha statue at Wailoa State Park.  The following day, the Kamehameha Festival is being held in Hilo at Moku Ola, Coconut Island.  The tribute will feature lots of Hawaiian entertainment, food/arts and crafts vendors, and demonstrations of dance and other cultural activities, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Also on June 11, 2016 on the west or Kona side of Hawaii Island, the day begins at 8 a.m. with the Kamehameha Statue Lei Draping Ceremony in Kohala. At 9 a.m., the 100^th anniversary of the King Kamehameha Floral Parade begins, starting from the Royal Kona Resort and moving along Alii Drive.  Regal pau riders on horseback will be adorned in the flowers and colors representing the eight Hawaiian Islands led by their respective princesses and the pau queen. The parade will also feature hula schools, other equestrian units, marching bands, a horse-drawn carriage and more.

Afterward, the party continues during the day at events and programs throughout historic Kailua Village.  In the evening, go back over to the Royal Kona Resort for your own celebration at the ocean side Don the Beachcomber’s, overlooking beautiful Kailua Bay. For more information, go to www.hawaiihotels.com.