Lei-Making (On-site Drop-in Demonstration)

E Ala E Hawaiian Cultural Center and Hawai‘i State Society of Washington, D.C.
In celebration of Kamehameha Day, which occurs each June, the local Hawaiian community create lei using plant material from the mid-Atlantic area and beyond. These lei are solemnly presented and draped on the statues of Saint Damien and Kamehameha in a private ceremony in the U.S. Capitol, where, in the days following the ceremony, visitors to the Capitol can enjoy them. Come try your hand at making lei while learning about Hawaiian traditions and culture, led by members of the E Ala E Hawaiian Cultural Center. Then observe members of the Hawaii State Society of Washington D.C. as they prepare lei for the lei-draping ceremony at the U.S. Capitol. 

Intended Audience: All Levels

Saturday, June 15, 2024
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM  Eastern
Location: Conservatory Terrace (Rain Location: East Gallery)
FREE: This is a drop-in program. No registration needed.

About the presenters

E Ala E Hawaiian Cultural Center
E Ala E Hawaiian Cultural Center (EHCC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Hawaiian cultural organization formed to preserve and perpetuate the vibrancy of the Native Hawaiian people and culture. The organization was founded with a shared vision and common values to help create an inclusive community for people from all backgrounds who desire to come together in the spirit of aloha. EHCC offers cultural courses, workshops, seminars, events, and activities in the National Capital Region includeing hula (dance), 'ōlelo (language), oli (chant), cooking classes, kākau (tattoo), and Hawaiian fashion.
Hawai‘i State Society of Washington, D.C.
The Hawaii State Society of Washington, D.C. (HSS), or Hui Mokuʻainā O Hawaiʻi Wakinekona, Mokuʻainā O Kolumepia in the Hawaiian language, serves as a bridge between Hawai'i and the Washington, D.C. community, and supports other organizations promoting the best interests of the State of Hawai'i. It brings together individuals and groups in a true `ohana (family) atmosphere, providing opportunities for friendship, sharing, support, and networking among its members. HSS is a social organization, dedicated to perpetuating the diverse cultures and traditions of Hawai'i's people.