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.
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.
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/