With its fusion of cultures, Hawaii is rich with island traditions. And the start of a new year brings out a variety of customs, each with its own rituals and beliefs.
For Kauai Marriott Resort Concierge Ryden Domingsel, the celebration starts a few days before New Year’s Day. Ryden says every year, his family gathers at an aunt’s house to pound mochi, which is made of cooked rice. The men of the family take turns pounding the rice with wooden pallets in a large mortar. After it’s pounded out, the women shape and fill the mochi. On New Year’s Eve, the family gathers and celebrates by setting off long strands of fireworks throughout the night until midnight. “It is our belief that the fireworks will bring protection to our home and families, along with blessing for a great year to come,” explained Ryden. Then on New Year’s Day, they use the mochi in a soup called ozoni for good luck.
Ozoni is also a part of Terri Nonaka’s annual New Year tradition. The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa restaurant supervisor starts off New Year’s Day at her parent’s house with mochi soup for breakfast, followed by a visit to friends and family in the Big Island town of Hilo, where they feast on fried chicken and hasu at her grandmother’s house, shrimp and sake with her uncle, and then to her great-grandmother’s house for her aunt’s green jello, which is believed to bring good luck. “The day would not be complete without visiting our loved ones who have passed on,” said Terri. “New Year’s Day is not only a day of celeration, but also a day to reflect and be thankful for the memories and for all that is yet to come.”
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Guest Service Agent Jedda Kame’enui eats 13 grapes right at midnight on New Year’s Day. “It is one grape from each month of the year and one for good luck,” said Jedda. “I was taught that the grapes represent good health and prosperity.”
Ofelia Astrero, Housekeeping Manager at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, also partakes in a tradition to welcome in good luck. “On New Year’s Day, it is our tradition to turn on all lights to invite good luck in every corner of the house. We must open all doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers to let the good fortune in," said Ofelia. "Most of all, I remember from our grandparents not to spend money at all on New Year’s Day because it is believed that having wealth on the first day of the year will indicate your money management for the incoming year.”
From the Marriott Resorts Hawaii ohana, we wish everyone the best in 2010!
Save up to 50% when you select one of our Hawaii hotel packages. We know you want the best value for your money. Customize your search to find the amenities and accommodations you prefer at competitive prices. Vacations are about setting aside your daily routines and taking time for yourself to relax and have fun, so make your plans and let our friendly staff turn your stay in Hawaii into everything you have dreamed. With our Hawaii hotel packages, you can even arrange for discounted airfare and car rentals. Packages can save you time and money.
