Kamehameha Day Research Paper

Introduction

Few states in the United States celebrate their statehood as does colorful and beautiful Hawaii. Parades, special events and festivities of every kind mark the birthday of Hawaii's crown prince, Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole.

No stops are pulled in bringing to the forefront the one man responsible for Hawaii being everything it is and symbolizes today in the minds of residents and visitors alike.

Historical Background

Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianole, royal prince of the House of Kalakaua, was to Hawaii its elder statesman, royal monarch and royal ambassador to European heads of states and in Japan.

His one focus was on leaving Hawaiian culture as a remaining cultural place mark in history. Later on, his legacy went on to

holidays dedicated to crown heads of states, King Kamehameha Day being the second monarch. Throughout his life, he worked to perpetuate native Hawaiian culture and practices in both the hearts and minds of people everywhere.(1)

Cultural Events And Festivities:

Normally celebrated on his actual birth date, March 26th, there may be a shift of celebrations depending on whether the birthday falls on weekdays or not. Many schools and colleges close as does the public transportation system in Honolulu. Generally, many people take off from work on this anxiously awaited date.

While celebrated on all the major islands, festive parties and traditional luaus also make up the mainstay of celebrations on the other islands as well. The traditional Hawaiian feast usually accompanied by live music and dancing, also beacons to visitors and residents alike with such delicious and tantalizing food such as poi, the traditional kalua pig, poke, lomi salmon, opihi, haupia and beer.

Other Attractions and Events On Other

Never to be forgotten, there are many Prince Kuhio Commemorative ceremonies held throughout the island in the parks of Poipu. Followed by craft fairs, cultural demonstrations and live music events, there is no shortage of activities for those joining in the festivities.

Oahu:

Parades and services at the Prince's final resting place are both celebrated on this island with a traditional Hoolaulea. Presented by Prince Kuhio Celebration of Life civic associations, services at Prince Kuhio’s final resting place, Oahu’s Royal Mausoleum at Maunaala and beautifully poignant lei draping of the Waikiki's Prince Kuhio statue are followed by a Hawaiian arts and crafts display at Kapiolani Park.(2)

A Celebration That Spans A Two-Week Period

In addition to the actual Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Day, there are other events that span a two-week period and are located in Poipu, Eleele, Lihue and Wailua.

Interactive educational sessions about Hawaiian cultural values, Makauwahi Cave tours at Makauwahi Reserve and vast collections of indigenous and endemic plant species also proudly form part of the