May is here and the whisperings of spring are in the air. What better way to kick off the month of May than by celebrating with beautiful flowers and the tradition of making and giving a lei.
The lei was first introduced to the Hawaiian Islands by early Polynesian voyagers, who traveled in sailing canoes from Tahiti. As part of Hawaiian tradition, garlands of flowers, seashells, seeds, nuts, and colorful feathers, were worn by ancient Hawaiians to add beauty and to set themselves apart from each other.
Thirty-four years ago, Irmalee & Walter Pomroy founded Kauai Museum’s First Annual May Day Lei Contest. Irmalee was honored as a “Living Treasure” in 2002. The Kauai Museum along with the Pomroy family continue to honor the tradition.
Today is a celebration of the tradition, culture, and heritage of the lei. Come visit the Kauai Museum and take part in this colorful and fragrant tradition.
