The Tradition of the Hawaiian Lei

The lei, a delicate garland crafted from flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, or feathers, holds a special place in Hawaiian culture. More than just a beautiful accessory, it is a symbol of aloha—representing love, respect, and the connection between people. Worn during celebrations or given as a heartfelt gesture, the lei reflects the warm spirit of the islands, blending ancient customs with a modern sense of hospitality.

Photo: Native Hawaiians sell leis in 1901

Origins of the Lei

The story of the lei begins with the early Polynesians, the first people to navigate the Pacific and settle in Hawaii. They brought with them their traditions, including the making of leis. Over time, the custom of giving and wearing leis became a deeply rooted part of Hawaiian life. In ancient times, Hawaiians used materials found in their lush surroundings to make leis—whether flowers from the rainforest or shells from the beaches. Every material had its own significance, making each lei unique.

The Maile lei, made from a fragrant vine, was one of the most revered. Chiefs used it in ceremonies to mark peace agreements, symbolizing unity and goodwill. In such a ritual, leaders would intertwine the vines to show that the peace was established between them, creating a bond through this simple yet powerful gesture.

The Lei’s Role in Modern Hawaii

As Hawaii became a destination for travelers, the lei took on new meaning. In the early 1900s, during the "Boat Days," when ships brought tourists to the islands, lei vendors would greet passengers as they arrived. These garlands, draped around visitors' necks, served as a warm welcome to Hawaii. For many, receiving a lei upon arrival created an unforgettable connection to the islands.

It became a tradition for visitors to toss their leis into the sea as their ship sailed away, hoping the act would bring them back to the islands one day. This sentiment lives on today, as many visitors to Hawaii still experience the joy of being welcomed with a lei the moment they step off the plane.

Etiquette when it comes to Lei

Wearing and giving a lei is a simple yet meaningful act. Whether it’s a lei of flowers, seeds, or shells, it carries a message of warmth and connection. Anyone can wear a lei, and there doesn’t need to be a special occasion. However, when you are given a lei, there are a few customs to keep in mind. Always accept it with grace—it is considered impolite to refuse one. The proper way to wear a lei is draped over your shoulders, hanging evenly in the front and back. If you need to remove the lei, do so discreetly, especially in the presence of the person who gave it to you.

Lei giving is common at events such as birthdays, graduations, and weddings. On graduation day, it’s not unusual to see students wearing so many leis that they can barely see over them! The lei continues to bring joy to both locals and visitors alike, connecting the past to the present with its timeless beauty and symbolism.

Photo: Our Wedding 🌺

Here some fun facts:

Lei Day: Since 1929, May 1st has been celebrated as Lei Day in Hawaii. The day is dedicated to the art of lei making and the sharing of the aloha spirit. Each island has its own designated flower and color for Lei Day. For example, Oahu's flower is the yellow ilima, and its color is yellow, while Maui's flower is the pink lokelani rose.

Lei Greeting Tradition: In the early 20th century, during the height of "Boat Days," it was common for visitors leaving the islands to toss their lei into the ocean. The belief was that if the lei floated back to shore, they would one day return to Hawaii.

LEI DOWN WITH ME

Ingredients:

2 oz Okoleao or Gold Jamaican Rum   

0.5 oz Homemade Falernun 

1 oz Citrus Mix

2 oz Unsweetened Pineapple Juice

0.5 oz Passion Fruit Puree

0.5 oz Crème de Noyaux 

2 dashes Angostura Bitter 

Method:

Pour all the ingredients into a shaker.

Add crushed ice. Shake for 5 seconds.

Pour unstrained into Wahine Mug 

Add more crushed ice if is necessary.

Garnish with orchid, and mint sprig

How to make a Lei. Steps by Step Kui Pololei Orchid Lei

Prepare Your Materials:

- You’ll need about 50 orchids to make one lei.

- Get a needle and a strong string, and tie a knot at one end of the string.

Prepare the Flowers:

- Pinch off the stem of the orchid or use scissors to cut it.

- Get the orchid ready by holding it gently.

Thread the Needle Through the Flower:

- Take your needle and carefully pierce the middle of the orchid (the “nose”)

- Push the needle straight through the back of the flower.

Add Flowers to the Needle:

- Repeat the same steps with three orchids, lining them up nicely on the needle.

Slide Flowers onto the String:

- Gently push the flowers from the needle down onto the string until they reach the knot.

- Be sure to keep the flowers in line as you slide them down.

Continue the Pattern:

- Keep adding orchids in the same way, making sure they are lined up neatly.

- This will create a sturdy and beautiful lei.

Photo Credit: Quantas Australian Airlines

------

Photo Credit: rosetteleis.com elvisinhawaii.com onlyinourstate.com

Source:

Hawaiian Lei Company

Hawaii Flower Lei