Hawaiian lei flower garlands

© Jotika Pun/Shutterstoc

'May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii Nei'. Lei Day

As the first day of May dawns upon Hawaii, Lei Day bursts forth in a riot of colour, fragrance and festivity. Leis are garlands crafted from various flowers, leaves and even shells, carrying significant cultural importance for the natives of the island state. Leis were brought by the Polynesians as they migrated eastward through the Pacific Islands before reaching Hawaii between 1000 and 1200 CE. They represent love, respect and the ever-present aloha spirit, described as 'the coordination of mind and heart within each person.' Lei Day is an all-day fiesta that includes parades, pageants, lei-making contests, hula dances and feasts.