June 11th is a state holiday in Hawaii celebrating King Kamehameha the Great. King Kamehameha was born in the North Kohala district on Hawaii’s Big Island and at the age of 14, he was destined into greatness when he lifted the Naha Stone. This stone was only to be lifted by one man, the legendary warrior who would unite the Hawaiian Islands. King Kamehameha fulfilled his destiny some thirty years later in 1810 after successfully winning several battles on all the Hawaiian Islands and formally establishing the Kingdom of Hawaii.
Photo courtesy of Hawaii's Big Island Visitor Bureau (BIVB)
Today, the celebration continues in Kapaau, King Kamehameha’s birthplace on Hawaii’s Big Island. Lei will be draped around his life-sized statue, a floral parade runs through main street and traditional women pa‘u riders (costumed horse riders) will dress in colorful 19th century riding gowns complete with elegant floral head dresses representing the Queen and princesses from the eight Hawaiian Islands. It is an authentic Hawaiian experience not to miss!
- Jerry, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Here on Maui, we’re celebrating King Kamehameha Day with a special program at Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Festivities will include a traditional ‘oli (chant) and kahiko (ancient) hula, lei presentation, and Hawaiian craft display by local artisans.
For kamaaina and guests of our Maui luxury hotel, we’ll be showing “Then There Were None,” an award-winning documentary addressing Hawaii’s past, present and future. It was written and produced by Elizabeth Kapu‘uwailani Lindsey. We’ll also have a talk story session with Hawaiian cultural specialist Clifford Nae‘ole.
- Nalani, Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Ever celebrate King Kamehameha Day before? With the great deals you'll find on Hawaii hotel packages these days, now's your chance. King Kamehameha Day, every June 11, is a state holiday in Hawaii celebrating King Kamehameha the Great. Born in the North Kohala District, this great king was destined into greatness at the age of 14. Though barely a teenager, the great king became a Hawaiian legend when he lifted the Naha Stone. Legend told that the stone could only be lifted by one man, a great warrior who would one day unite all the islands in harmony.
In 1810, King Kamehameha fulfilled his destiny by winning many battles that united the various kingdoms of Hawaii. To this day, Hawaiians celebrate their great king's birthday with feasting, traditional dances and down right merriment. It's a great time of year to book Hawaii hotel packages. How often does your hotel room celebrate the legend of a great king from long ago? Get your reservation on the celebration. With the luxurious accommodations of Hawaii hotel packages, this great holiday can be yours to enjoy as only the islands know how. Step back into time, and pay your respects to King Kamehameha.
