In a refreshing return back to normalcy, Aloha Festivals has announced that it will be resuming in-person events in September. “Aloha Festivals will once again present a vibrant display of the aloha spirit during its three signature events throughout the month of September encompassing cultural ceremonies, Hawai‘i’s premier block party, and a spectacular floral parade,” said the organization in an email press release. One of the largest Hawaiian cultural celebrations in the nation, Aloha Festivals is known for its cultural fairs and events statewide, and hosted dozens of celebrations in the Hawaiian Islands pre-COVID-19.
The announcement comes just in time for the three biggest Aloha Festival events of the year, the Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony, 68th Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a and the 74th Annual Floral Parade.
Kicking off the month-long festivities, the Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony takes place on Saturday Sept. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Helumoa Gardens located at The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort. The Aloha Festivals Royal Court will be wearing the regalia of aliʻi as they are honored as representatives of Hawaiʻi. The opening ceremony will also include hula performances and musical acts all in Waikīkī.
A grand hoʻolauleʻa (party) will be taking place the following Saturday, Sept. 17, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Often regarded as one of Waikīkī’s biggest parties, the Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a was sorely missed during the pandemic. Taking place on Kalākaua Avenue—the street is shut down to traffic during the party—booths highlighting Hawai‘i cuisine, crafts and culture are all on offer as attendees roam the block. With multiple stages for entertainment and a smattering of ʻono local fare and grinds, the Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a is truly the can’t-miss event of the year.
Putting a beautiful cap on a trilogy of events and culture, the 74th Annual Floral Parade rounds out the month. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, this vibrant procession of Hawaiian culture will make its way from Ala Moana Park, through Kalākaua Avenue and end at Kapiʻolani Park. It is a rare chance for visitors and locals to see pāʻū riders—women on horseback wearing long, colorful skirts and dresses—as well as a smattering display of intricately designed floats all decorated with a rainbow of fresh flowers.
It’s great to see the Aloha Festivals back in action. Not only does it provide visitors with great events to add on to their itineraries, but the spectacles also promote and perpetuate Hawaiian culture and history. For more information on the events listed above, and to check out any other celebrations happening throughout 2022, visit the Aloha Festivals website.
