Posted on: Saturday, June 11, 2005

EDITORIAL
Culture distinguishes Kamehameha holiday

Kamehameha Day, the only royal holiday established during the Hawaiian monarchy and celebrated continually ever since, is one of Hawai'i's proud and unbroken links to its past.

It was established in 1871 by the last of the dynasty, Kamehameha V, in honor of his great-grandfather.

Kamehameha the Great, the warrior chief who unified the Islands into a single kingdom, was known for his military and political ambitions but also for a willingness to introduce Hawai'i to new ideas and, for good or ill, to international alliances.

The holiday that pays tribute to the king has evolved into a showcase for old traditions, arts and wisdom, much of which had been nearly lost until the cultural renaissance of the past few decades. "Na Hana No'eau o ka Pakipika," today's cultural fair at Kapi'olani Park following the annual parade, is one event on the holiday calendar worth sampling with rarely seen crafts there.

Hawai'i's multiculturalism is also celebrated on this occasion, in food, music and dance of varied ethnic origins. All are part of our treasured heritage and distinguish Kamehameha observances from other yearly holidays.

In addition to enjoying today's outings with family and friends, we shouldn't miss the opportunity to revel in the things that set Hawai'i apart from anywhere else in the world.