A rider in a parade in Hilo wears variety of flower leis
Photo by Carl Viti
A rider in a parade in Hilo wears variety of flower leis
Photo by Carl Viti
Leis
All Polynesians practise the making and giving of lei. From
early times, Hawaiians have fashioned lei from shells, seeds, bone, and feathers and from
more temporary materials such as leaves, vines, and a few indigenous flowers. Over the
years, newcomers to the islands introduced many new species of flowers that are now
enjoyed by lei makers, but techniques of fashioning lei have remained typically Hawaiian.
Colorful flowers and greenery are braided, twisted, wrapped, or strung together to create
lei for the neck, head, wrists and ankles. Photo of lei-maker Pualani Kanaka'ole
Kanahele at 1989 Festival of American Folklife, courtesy Smithsonian Institution
In early Hawai'i the lei was symbolic of esteem for gods, loved ones, and oneself.
Remarkably diverse and spectacular lei are made and given for marriages, birthdays, lu'aus, and funerals. The Hawai'i State Legislature opens with
thousands of lei-bedecked representatives, senators and well wishers. Leis are also given
on informal occasions to express gratitude or warmth of friendship.
Traditional arts from Borderlands
[Lu'au]
24 Sept 1996