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In Hawai‘i, few traditions are as iconic and meaningful as the lei. These handcrafted garlands—made from flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, or feathers—embody the essence of aloha, representing love, friendship, celebration, and respect. Worn with pride and given with intention, they are far more than decorations; they are powerful cultural expressions with deep historical roots.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The practice of making and wearing floral lei's was introduced to Hawai‘i by Polynesian voyagers who settled the islands centuries ago. Along with agricultural knowledge and spiritual beliefs, they brought customs that would evolve into uniquely Hawaiian practices. Adornments made from native materials—maile vines, fragrant blossoms, polished seeds, and more—became an integral part of everyday life and ceremonial occasions.
In ancient Hawai‘i, these garlands marked significant moments and conveyed social status or spiritual reverence. Chiefs (ali‘i) wore intricate designs crafted from rare or sacred elements to display their rank and power. The creation process, known as haku, was a blend of artistry and reverence, often performed with chants and care, reinforcing a deep connection to the land and the gods.
The Spirit of Aloha
At the heart of this tradition lies the Hawaiian value of aloha, a word rich with meaning—love, compassion, kindness, and mutual respect. Presenting a lei to someone is not simply a gift; it is a gesture of connection, gratitude, and affection. It speaks without words, offering a bond between giver and receiver.
Different materials hold specific meanings. Maile vines, used in weddings and important ceremonies, symbolize peace and honor. Pikake (jasmine) is linked to romance and elegance, while orchids and plumeria are favorites for festive occasions due to their vibrant colors and scents. Kukui nuts, shiny and dark, are associated with enlightenment, protection, and peace.
In Hawaiian etiquette, such offerings should be accepted graciously. Refusing or removing one in the presence of the giver can be seen as disrespectful, as each is given with heartfelt intention.
Lei Day: A Cultural Celebration
To honor the tradition and its cultural importance, Hawai‘i celebrates Lei Day each year on May 1st. Established in 1927, this holiday pays tribute to the craftsmanship, symbolism, and enduring relevance of these floral expressions. Across the islands, schools and communities host parades, hula performances, musical events, and lei-making competitions.
Each island has a flower and color associated with it. For instance, O‘ahu is represented by the golden ‘ilima, while Maui is symbolized by the pink lokelani rose. These distinctions highlight both the diversity and unity of Hawaiian identity, proudly displayed during Lei Day festivities.
This link will give more history and significance on Lei day in Hawaii:
The Art of Creation
Traditional lei-making involves several distinct techniques:
- Kui: Stringing blossoms with a needle and thread.
- Haku: Braiding flowers and foliage into a woven crown or band.
- Wili: Twisting materials around a base using natural fibers.
- Hili: Plaiting single types of plants, such as ferns or vines.
Creating one is often a meditative process. Many artisans gather materials mindfully, offering thanks or chanting in acknowledgment of nature’s gifts. The final product is more than a beautiful adornment—it is a reflection of thoughtfulness, respect, and artistry.
The Haku Lei: A Braided Symbol of Hawaiian Tradition
The Haku lei is one of the most cherished and visually striking forms of lei in Hawaiian culture. Unlike the typical stringed garland, this version is carefully braided or woven using fresh flowers, greenery, and sometimes ferns, into a flexible base—often worn around the head like a crown.
Rooted in ancient tradition, the Haku style has long been associated with celebration, honor, and connection to nature. Whether worn for weddings, hula performances, graduations, or festivals, it carries a deep sense of pride and reverence. Each one is handmade with intention, often combining blooms and foliage with symbolic meanings to reflect the occasion or individual being honored.
More than a beautiful adornment, the Haku lei embodies the Hawaiian values of aloha (love), pono (righteousness), and kuleana (responsibility). In both traditional and modern ceremonies, it remains a vibrant expression of heritage and artistry.
A Tradition That Lives On
Today, these garlands continue to hold a central place in Hawaiian life. They’re shared at graduations, birthdays, weddings, farewells, and other milestones. Whether used to welcome a guest, honor an achievement, or commemorate a loved one, each creation carries a message—a tangible expression of aloha.
Though materials and designs may evolve, the core meaning endures. Each garland tells a story of connection and culture, linking generations and celebrating the beauty of human relationships. In every gift, every flower, and every thread, the soul of Hawai‘i is alive and flourishing.
Helpful Links
Explore the history, cultural significance, and craftsmanship behind Hawai‘i’s iconic lei:
- Lei Day History & Traditions
https://www.leiday.org/the-history-of-lei-day/ - Bishop Museum – Hawaiian Cultural Resources
https://bishopmuseum.org/ - Hawaiian Dictionary & Cultural Reference (UH Press)
https://ulukau.org/ - Video: How to Make a Traditional Kui-Style Lei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7TNhDoMCpI - Video: How to Make a Haku (Flower Crown) Lei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VphXovPs95g - Hawai‘i Tourism Authority – Cultural Practices Overview
https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cultural meaning of a Hawaiian lei?
A Hawaiian lei represents aloha, meaning love, respect, compassion, and connection. These beautifully handcrafted garlands symbolize everything from celebration to honor, depending on the occasion. Whether made of flowers, leaves, shells, or seeds, each lei carries intention and meaning, making it far more than a decorative accessory — it's a heartfelt gesture deeply rooted in Hawaiian tradition.
2. Where did the tradition of making lei originally come from?
Lei-making was brought to Hawai‘i by Polynesian voyagers who arrived with a rich culture of adornment, spirituality, and craftsmanship. Over time, Hawaiians developed their own styles using native plants like maile, ‘ilima, ti leaf, and lehua blossoms. These garlands were worn in daily life, ceremonies, and by aliʻi (chiefs), who often adorned themselves with rare or sacred materials.
3. What does giving or receiving a lei symbolize in Hawaiian culture?
Giving a lei symbolizes affection, gratitude, aloha, and honor. Accepting one graciously is seen as a sign of respect. Removing a lei in front of the giver is considered impolite. Each material also carries its own symbolism — for example:
- Maile lei: peace, respect, and sacredness
- Pikake: romance and elegance
- Orchids & plumeria: celebration, friendship, and beauty
- Kukui nut: enlightenment and protection
4. What is Lei Day, and why is it celebrated on May 1st?
Lei Day is Hawai‘i’s official celebration of the lei tradition, held every May 1st. Established in 1927, Lei Day honors Hawaiian craftsmanship, cultural history, and island identity. Festivities include lei contests, hula performances, music, and parades across all islands. Each island even has its own symbolic flower and color.
More info:
https://www.leiday.org/the-history-of-lei-day/
5. What are the main techniques used to make a Hawaiian lei?
Hawaiian lei-making features several beautiful techniques:
- Kui: stringing flowers with a needle and thread
- Haku: braiding flowers and greenery into a crown or head lei
- Wili: twisting materials around a base with natural fiber
- Hili: braiding single plant varieties, like ferns or vines
Each technique reflects skill, creativity, and respect for the land. Many artisans chant or give thanks while gathering materials.
Lei-making demonstration video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7TNhDoMCpI
6. What makes a Haku lei different from a traditional neck lei?
A Haku lei is a braided lei worn on the head, often created using a woven base of ti leaves, ferns, flowers, or native plants. Haku lei are commonly worn for weddings, hula performances, graduations, and ceremonies. They symbolize honor, celebration, and connection to nature — and are considered one of the most treasured forms of lei.
Learn more from this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VphXovPs95g
7. When is it appropriate to wear or give a lei in Hawaii?
Lei are appropriate for nearly any special occasion in Hawaii, including:
- Birthdays
- Weddings
- Graduations
- Welcoming guests
- Honoring achievements
- Farewell gatherings
- Memorials
They are also often given spontaneously as a show of aloha. Anytime you want to express love, gratitude, or respect, a lei is a perfect gesture.
8. Are there etiquette rules for giving or receiving a Hawaiian lei?
Yes — Hawaiian lei etiquette is rooted in respect:
- Always accept a lei with grace and appreciation.
- Never remove a lei in front of the giver.
- Return lei to nature (not the trash) by placing them under a tree or in a garden.
- Avoid giving lei with open-ended materials (like maile) to pregnant women, as per tradition.
9. Why are certain plants or flowers considered special for lei-making?
Many Hawaiian plants hold sacred or symbolic meaning. For example:
- Maile is sacred and traditionally used in weddings and high ceremonies.
- Lehua blossoms honor Pele, the volcano goddess.
- Kukui nuts symbolize knowledge and protection.
These meanings add depth to the lei’s purpose and reinforce Hawaiian values like aloha, kuleana (responsibility), and pono (righteousness).
10. Why is the lei tradition still so important today?
Lei remain vital because they connect Hawaiians to their history, ancestors, and values. Even as designs evolve, the cultural meaning of giving and receiving a lei remains unchanged: it’s an expression of aloha that honors relationships and moments that matter. Whether worn at a celebration or given as a warm welcome, the lei continues to symbolize the heart and soul of Hawai‘i.
If you would like to read and learn more about interesting things in Hawaii! Check out our blog page here on our website!
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