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Unit 1: Lei Day: Celebrating Hawaii's Culture of Aloha.
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May 1.
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Every May 1, Hawaii comes alive with Lei Day, a festival celebrating the rich culture and spirit of the islands.
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Initiated in 1927 by the poet Don Blanding, Lei Day began as a tribute to the Hawaiian custom of making and wearing leis.
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The idea was quickly adopted and officially recognized as a holiday in 1929.
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And leis have since become a symbol of local pride and cultural preservation.
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In Hawaiian culture, leis are more than decorative garlands made from flowers, shells, or feathers.
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For Hawaiians, giving a lei is as natural as saying aloha.
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It shows love and peace, and conveys welcome, gratitude, or congratulations.
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Leis also reflect the diversity and beauty of the archipelago through the distinctive colors associated with each Hawaiian island.
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On the island of Hawaii, the largest of the state's eight major islands,
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the traditional flower color is red.
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Similarly, Maui is known for its pink leis, while Oahu is celebrated for its yellow leis.
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Today, Lei Day is celebrated across Hawaii with numerous activities that honor this iconic tradition.
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Among the highlights are lei-making contests, where participants from all walks of life display their skills and creativity.
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In addition to local residents, visitors are encouraged to wear leis and join the celebrations.
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Adding to the lively atmosphere are traditional Hawaiian music and hula dancing.
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A Lei Queen is also selected to represent Hawaiian values and participate in various public events.
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Through its annual celebration, Hawaii emphasizes the importance of a connection to nature, cultural pride, and sharing joy.
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Whether you're a local or a visitor, Lei Day offers an opportunity to embrace the essence of Hawaii's culture.
