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Wednesday, April 16, 2025
6:30pm
The Kampong
Interwoven Blooms: The Cultural Significance of Flowers in Hawaiian Traditions
Flowers have long been integral to cultural expressions worldwide, embodying meanings that transcend their natural beauty. In Hawaiian culture, the crafting and exchange of lei—garlands made from native flora—serve as profound symbols of identity, connection, and emotion. This lecture delves into the cultural significance of flowers in Hawaiian traditions, focusing on the art of lei-making and its role in conveying messages of forgiveness, respect, and familial ties.
We will explore the insights of Lei Wann, Garden Director of Limahuli Garden & Preserve, who emphasizes that lei are more than decorative items; they encapsulate layers of personal and cultural identity, deeply rooted in Hawaiʻi’s native flora and forests.
Receiving a lei from a practitioner signifies not just a gift from an individual but a transmission of knowledge and values from generations past. By examining these traditions, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how floral practices in Hawaiʻi serve as living artifacts, weaving stories that transcend time and fostering a profound connection between people, plants, and cultural heritage.
Join us on April 16th at 6:30pm with wine and light refreshments.