Hosts of Aloha Festivals Floral Parade Share of the Event’s Culture and Unity

This year’s Aloha Festivals Floral Parade is set to captivate attendees with a vibrant showcase of Hawai‘i’s rich cultural traditions. The KHON2 parade broadcast will be hosted by Kamaka Pili and Parade Chair Makana McLellan, the event annually reflects the unique spirit of aloha. The hosts joined Kelly to share about this year’s exciting event.

“Attendees can expect a vibrant display of Hawai‘i’s culture, with beautifully decorated floats, pāʻū riders on horseback, and performances from local marching bands and civic groups,” Makana shared. The parade is a celebration that unites the islands’ diverse communities through shared traditions.

The theme for this year, “ʻAʻa I Ka Hula,” embodies courage and resilience in preserving cultural treasures like hula. Kamaka Pili explained how this theme will be incorporated into the parade, with many participants, including hula hālau and cultural groups, honoring it through their floral-decorated floats and performances.

Reflecting on the diversity of Hawai‘i’s community, the parade serves as a microcosm of the islands’ varied cultures. “We have participants from all walks of life—civic leaders, cultural practitioners, local businesses, and students—coming together to celebrate,” McLellan noted. Despite the diversity, the shared spirit of aloha is a unifying thread that runs through the event.

The Floral Parade is not just a celebration but also a vital platform for preserving Hawai‘i’s cultural traditions. From pāʻū riding to lei making and the intricate designs of the floats, the parade brings these traditions to life, educating younger generations and sharing them with visitors.

The parade’s message remains clear; an appreciation for the strength, beauty, and diversity of Hawai‘i’s culture. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring cultural heritage while celebrating the unique spirit that connects all who call Hawai‘i home.

The 76th Annual Floral Parade

Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Kalākaua Avenue