On May 1st, Hawaiʻi recognizes a beautiful tradition steeped in Hawaiian culture. The day is known as May Day or Lei Day and is spent celebrating the tradition of giving and receiving lei. 

Lei are traditionally made with flowers, leaves, nuts, seeds and shells, and there are many different methods for creating a finished lei including Kui (piercing method), Hili (braiding method), Haku (mounting method), and more.

Learn more about the 8 types of lei weaving techniques from our friends at Hoʻomau Hawaiʻi Market.

A lei is a common symbol of love, friendship, celebration, honor, or greeting.

In Hawaiʻi, a lei is given for an office promotion, a birthday, an anniversary, a graduation, or any special event. They can also be made with money, candy, yarn, and ribbons. Yet more notably, a lei can be worn for no other reason than to enjoy the fragrance, take pleasure in the beautiful flowers, or simply to celebrate the “Aloha Spirit.”

Celebrate May Day with Hawaiian Host

In celebration of May Day or Lei Day, Hawaiian Host will be participating in the following events. For more details, go to Celebrate May Day with Hawaiian Host. 

• Hoʻomau Hawaiʻi Market: Sunday, April 28 from 10am-5pm HST
• Hawaiian Airlines May Day 2024: Wednesday, May 1 from 5pm-9pm HST