June 11 is Kamehameha Day in Hawaii, a public holiday that celebrates the life of the first king of a unified Hawaii. Kamehameha I, who ruled from 1782 to 1819, united the various Hawaiian islands into one kingdom in 1810. Known as the “Napoleon of the Pacific,” he is known for his advances in the judicial, social, and educational systems of the islands.

Kamehameha Day celebrates ancient Hawaiian traditions. The day is marked by a floral parade from the Iolani Palace in Honolulu through the city to Kapiolani Park, which hosts an all-day party, with arts & crafts, traditional foods, cultural exhibits, and live music and dance. The bronze statue of Kamehameha I, which stands in front of the Hawaiian judicial building, is traditionally draped with colorful, floral leis on June 11.

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Kamehameha Day