Hawaii Statehood Day

When did the Hawaii Statehood Day start?

About Hawaii Statehood Day Holiday

Hawaii Statehood Day is a public holiday in the Hawaiian islands that honors the anniversary of the U.S. Congress ratifying the Hawaii Admission Act, which officially granted the state of Hawaii full US statehood on August 21, 1959. Every year, on the third Friday in August, also known as Hawaiian Statehood Day, the people of Hawaii commemorate and honor the Hawaiian culture and its rich heritage of aloha spirit, and the entrance of our beloved islands into the United States.

On this day, friends and family gather to celebrate with colorful lei and festive luau, eat traditional Hawaiian dishes, play traditional games, and dance the hula. This holiday gives all Hawaiians the opportunity to recognize the amazing accomplishments of Hawaii's first settlers, as well as reflect on the challenges they have faced since statehood. From the rich heritage that has been passed down for generations, to the unique custom and language, Hawaii is a place steeped in culture and history. Hawaii Statehood Day is a reminder of all the things that make our state so special.

Hawaii Statehood Day

Hawaii Statehood Day is an annual holiday observed in the US state of Hawaii. The holiday is celebrated on the third Friday of each August. On this day, the people of Hawaii honor the anniversary of the state’s admission into the Union as the 50th state. The now tropical paradise of Hawaii was once a distant US territory, its location far from the mainland – over two thousand miles in fact – making it the most distant state from the other 48.

History and Origin

A little over sixty years ago, Hawaii became a US state. In 1959, the then statehood bill was passed by Congress. On August 21, 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill making Hawaii the 50th US state. On that day, American Flag roses were chosen as the state flower and it also marked the beginning of the Hawaiian cultural celebration of “Aloha State.” To commemorate this historic day, Hawaii Statehood Day was established.

Significance and Meaning

Hawaii Statehood Day is a huge deal for many Hawaii residents, as it marks the beginning of what would become the most remote state in the union – and a popular holiday destination. Statehood Day is considered a time to commemorate the many cultures of Hawaii, and celebrate what has been achieved in the past half century. Aloha State symbolizes the spirit of friendship, and values of family, community, sincerity, and appreciation for nature that have made Hawaii unique.

Traditions and Celebrations

Hawaii Statehood Day is celebrated with parades, concerts, and other public events throughout the state. In addition to traditional Hawaiian music and hula, people come to dance and enjoy local foods. Parades include colorful floats and handcrafted props that represent traditional Hawaiian culture and history. Another popular event is the Hawaiian Iolani Palace Lighting Ceremony, where a large light show is put on to honor Hawaii’s statehood history.

Geographical Spread

Hawaii Statehood Day is only observed in the state of Hawaii. As the most distant of states, Hawaii has a unique history and culture. From its tropical ecology to its Polynesian heritage, Hawaii is a truly special place. Residents of Hawaii, regardless of their ancestry, consider themselves to have a strong sense of native pride and identity.

Modern Day Observations

Hawaii Statehood Day is remembered today with various festivities and cultural celebrations. In Honolulu, the Iolani Palace is lit up with a light show each year, reflecting the joy and pride of becoming a state. To commemorate the day, many US flags are hoisted throughout the islands and a weekend-long celebration of the Aloha State ensues. Educational institutions in Hawaii take the occasion to educate their students about the Hawaiian culture and the importance of statehood.

Interesting Facts / Trivia

• Hawaii is the only US state located in the tropics.

• Hawaii is the only US state with its own language, Hawaiian.

• Hawaiian is the only native language spoken in the US.

• August 21, 1959 was the Day of the 50th star on the United States Flag, and has since been known as Hawaii Statehood Day.

• The Hawaiian Flag is also known as the Kahili Flag, and is divided vertically into eight stripes that represent the eight major Hawaiian islands.

• The date of Hawaii Statehood Day is always the third Friday in August each year.

• The song “Hawaii Statehood Day” was written in 1959 to commemorate the 50th state.

Conclusion

Hawaii Statehood Day is a holiday to remember. It celebrates the beauty, history, and culture of the Hawaiian Islands, and reminds us of the importance of statehood for our most distant state. In addition to a celebration of all things Hawaiian, Hawaii Statehood Day serves to remind us of the spirit of friendship and family that is so strong in the islands. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and unique history, it’s no wonder that Hawaii is such a beloved destination for visitors from around the world.

How to Say "Hawaii Statehood Day" In Different Languages?