Lei Day
Lei Day - May first - was the brainchild of Don Blanding. In
1927 he came up with the idea of a uniquely Hawaiian holiday that everyone could celebrate. His editors at the
Honolulu Star-Bulletin presented it to the public and the idea was enthusiastically embraced.
Lei Day became an official holiday in
1929. During those first years the event included the selection of a Lei Day queen and court. Lei Day celebrations continue today, marking the first day of May with lei-making competitions, concerts, and the giving and receiving of lei among friends and family.
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