June 11th, 2016

King Kamehameha I Day is a Hawaiian holiday that honors King Kamehameha the Great, the monarch who first established the unified Kingdom of Hawaii. Celebrated annually, this day recognizes his legacy and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. The day is marked by traditional Hawaiian activities, including floral parades featuring pa‘u riders on horseback, lei draping ceremonies of King Kamehameha's statues, hula performances, and Hawaiian music concerts. There are also various cultural exhibitions, craft fairs, and food festivals that showcase Hawaiian history, art, and cuisine. King Kamehameha I Day is not only a celebration of Hawaiian history and culture but also a reflection of the islands' spirit of aloha and unity. It's a day to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future of Hawaii.

Shavuot, also known as the Feast of Weeks, is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the wheat harvest in Israel and the day the Torah was given to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. It is observed by engaging in all-night study of the Torah, reading the Book of Ruth, and partaking in festive meals that often include dairy foods. Synagogues are adorned with greenery, symbolizing the new harvest and the Mount Sinai revelation. This holiday offers a time for reflection, gratitude, and joyous community gatherings. Shavuot is not only a celebration of the physical harvest but also an acknowledgment of the spiritual bounty and wisdom imparted through the Torah, playing a significant role in Jewish culture and religious practice.