Ancient Samurai Tradition Returns to Hawaiʻi

Experience the grace, skill, and centuries-old tradition of Yabusame, the Japanese art of mounted archery, as it returns to Hawaiʻi at the breathtaking setting of Kualoa Ranch.

Yabusame is a ceremonial practice dating back nearly 900 years, where archers in traditional samurai attire ride galloping horses while shooting arrows at wooden targets. Combining athleticism, precision, and cultural heritage, the event offers a rare opportunity to witness a living tradition that continues to be practiced today.

Yabusame Hawaiʻi 2026 will be held at Kualoa Ranch and televised by ʻŌlelo Community Media, bringing this unique cultural event to viewers across Oʻahu and beyond.

Watch Live

Sunday, June 14, 2026
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
ʻŌlelo53

Viewers can also watch live via:

• ʻŌlelo Community Media’s YouTube Channel
• The livestream on the ʻŌlelo website (Channel 53) and the Mobile app

Broadcast Schedule

Miss the live event? Catch one of these rebroadcasts on ʻŌlelo Channel 53:

• August 6, 2026 – 6:00 PM
• August 8, 2026 – 9:30 AM
• August 9, 2026 – 10:00 PM
• August 12, 2026 – 3:00 PM

For additional event information, visit the official event page:
https://honolulufoundation.org/yabusame-in-hawaii/

Join us as we celebrate cultural exchange, history, and the enduring spirit of this remarkable Japanese tradition.

ʻŌlelo Community Media is proud to share coverage of the 2026 King Kamehameha Day celebrations on Oʻahu, honoring the legacy of King Kamehameha I, the monarch who united the Hawaiian Islands.

The 2026 theme, “E kū, e hoʻololi” (“Stand upright and change unpleasant conditions”), reflects the enduring values of leadership, resilience, and service that continue to inspire communities across Hawaiʻi.

King Kamehameha Day was established in 1872 to honor King Kamehameha I and remains one of Hawaiʻi’s most cherished cultural observances. Each year, residents and visitors gather to celebrate Hawaiian history, culture, and traditions through ceremonial events, floral displays, music, and community gatherings.

King Kamehameha Statue Lei Draping Ceremony

The annual King Kamehameha Statue Lei Draping Ceremony is a beloved tradition that pays tribute to the legacy of King Kamehameha I. During the ceremony, long strands of fresh flower lei are carefully draped over the iconic statue fronting Aliʻiōlani Hale in downtown Honolulu.

LIVE on ʻŌlelo54

Friday, June 12, 2026
2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Aliʻiōlani Hale

109th King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade

One of Hawaiʻi’s most anticipated annual events, the Floral Parade features beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, royal societies, and the renowned Pāʻū riders representing the islands of Hawaiʻi.

LIVE on ʻŌlelo54

Saturday, June 13, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
ʻIolani Palace to Queen Kapiʻolani Park

King Kamehameha Celebration Hoʻolauleʻa

Following the parade, community members are invited to gather for a family-friendly celebration featuring entertainment, cultural activities, food, and fellowship.

Saturday, June 13, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Queen Kapiʻolani Park

Watch on ʻŌlelo Community Media

Missed the live events? Viewers can watch rebroadcasts on ʻŌlelo53.

King Kamehameha Lei Draping 2026

• July 9, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.
• July 11, 2026 – 9:00 a.m.
• July 13, 2026 – 2:00 p.m.
• July 14, 2026 – 3:30 p.m.

King Kamehameha Floral Parade 2026

• July 9, 2026 – 8:30 p.m.
• July 12, 2026 – 11:30 a.m.
• July 13, 2026 – 4:30 p.m.
• July 15, 2026 – 3:30 p.m.

For more information about King Kamehameha Day celebrations and the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission, visit:

https://sfca.hawaii.gov/resources/king-kamehameha-celebration-commission/