Celebrate Hawaiian May Day in San Ramon!

by Rama Mehra

Aloha, San Ramon residents! Immerse yourself in the enchanting traditions of Hawai‘i by joining a special May Day celebration. Experience the mesmerizing hula performance by Aloha Studio at City Center Bishop Ranch.

Event Details of the Hawaiian May Day:

Date: May 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Alexander Square, City Center Bishop Ranch

Gather with us on the lawn in Alexander Square as graceful hula dancers bring the stories of Hawai‘i to life through song and dance. This captivating performance promises to transport you to the islands and provide an unforgettable cultural experience.

The Significance of May Day and Lei Day in Hawai‘i

May Day, often celebrated on May 1st, holds a special place in Hawaiian culture as "Lei Day." This unique holiday honors the beauty and symbolism of the lei—a garland or wreath often made of flowers—and embodies the spirit of aloha.

The tradition began in 1927 dedicated to celebrating the Hawaiian custom of making and wearing leis first at the Bank of Hawaii, then to the town hall and eventually to Kapi'olani park.

Each island in Hawai‘i has its own representative lei, symbolizing its unique flora and cultural identity. For example, the island of Kauai is represented by a string of purple berries, in Kahoolawe it’s the stems and flowers of the hinahina, in Maui it’s the lokelani lei with scented pink flowers that are very fragile.

Lei Day serves as a reminder of the Hawaiian values of love, friendship, and unity. The lei itself, given and received with warmth, represents a gesture of aloha—a deep sense of love and respect. This celebration has grown over the years, with schools and communities across Hawai‘i participating in festivals that include the crowning of Lei Day queens and kings, hula performances, and lei-making contests.

Join Us in Celebrating Unity in Diversity

While rooted in Hawaiian tradition, the essence of May Day transcends cultural boundaries. It serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of community, connection, and the celebration of diverse cultures. We warmly invite everyone, regardless of ethnicity, to partake in this celebration. Let us come together to honor the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community and embrace the spirit of unity in diversity.

Learn More

For additional details about the event, please visit the City Center Bishop Ranch website. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Hawaiian culture right here in San Ramon. Mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and join us for an evening of music, dance, and aloha spirit.