Hawaiian Customs and Traditions

Hawaii’s traditions are as diverse as its people. Rooted in Native

Hawaiian culture that has been passed down through generations
mixed with the traditions of the peoples from all around the world
who have made Hawaii home.

Here’s a quick guide to some local customs and

traditions:
 The Hawaiian way to greet someone is with a kiss on the cheek.
 When a female is wearing a flower in her left ear it means she is taken.
If she is wearing the flower in her right ear it means she is available.
 Flower lei are appropriate gifts for special occasions such as a birthday
or graduation. It is also the appropriate way to welcome visitors.
 If you are planning to get a lei for someone who is hapai or pregnant,
remember to ask the florist or lei maker to open up the lei. It is bad luck
to give a closed lei (as it represents the umbilical cord wrapping around
the neck of the unborn baby). Hala (Hawaiian screwpine) is never worn
by a pregnant woman, as it can be considered a bad omen.
 Don’t take rocks or sand from the beach or lava rocks from a volcano
with you.
 It is considered a kind gesture to bring back gifts from a trip for friends
or family.
 SPAM is widely consumed in Hawaii. The traditional food .It is a grilled
slice of spam with rice wrapped in nori (dried seaweed) – which makes
for the best hand-held snack/meal.
 During Chinese New Year, the lion dance is considered good luck. It is
customary to give money in a lucky red envelope also called lai see.
 Hinamatsuri or Girls’ Day is a Japanese tradition that is also celebrated
in Hawaii. The traditional food of the holiday is mochi – a Japanese rice
cake.
 It is common to have a new home or new business blessed by a Kahu, a
Hawaiian priest.
 It is NOT accepted to use your car horn while driving in Hawaii (unless
you are using it as a friendly hello).
 May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii. Lei Day is a statewide celebration with
festivities across the State including a lei making competition.
 Thanksgiving is celebrated Hawaiian-style. It’s not just about the turkey.
You’ll find a wide array of multi-cultural dishes similar to what's
featured at other gatherings and celebrations.

Hawaiian beaches

 Waikiki Beach: Situated on the south shore of Oahu island, this

beach has pristine waters and good vibes. Surf’s up and this is the
spot to take a lesson. It’s so vast that it’s actually made up of eight
sections, all with different attractions and activities, from canoe
rides to shopping.
 Lahaina Beach: Located on Maui, Lahaina Beach is where to
come to see traditional hula dancing for the full Hawaiian
experience. There are plenty of fun activities to try, like surfing and
sailing, and it’s located next to a lively town.
The Hawaiian language (Hawaiian: ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, pronounced [ʔoːˈlɛlo
həˈvɐjʔi])[5] is a Polynesian language that takes its name from Hawaiʻi, the
largest island in the tropical North Pacific archipelago where it developed.
Hawaiian, along with English, is an official language of the State of Hawaii. King
Kamehameha III established the first Hawaiian-language constitution in 1839
and 1840.

Holidays

Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Day – March 26

King Kamehameha I Day – June 11

Admissions Day – August 21

May Day ( Lei Day ) – first week of May

Boy's Day – May 5

Girl’s Day – March 3

Chinesse New Year ( gung hee fat choy ! - Happy new year ! )

late january – mid february

National Dishes:

3. Manapua- crumb of bread filled with char siu, chicken, beans;

4. Loco Moco- Rice + hamburger patty + fried egg + gravy all over
5.Shave Ice - The most delicious, finely shaven snow cone you’ve
ever dreamed of, with syrup and coconut milk.
6.Malasadas - Deep-fried balls of heaven coated in sugar.