Hokuala Floating Lantern Ceremony
May 30, 2022
At Timbers Kaua‘i, we are passionate about culture, community, and tradition. We light torches to say goodbye to the day and welcome the night. We sing and tell stories, celebrate as an ‘Ohana and connect to the world around us. We honor the land and are proud to celebrate all cultures.
This year, we were also proud to host a new tradition – the inaugural Hokuala Floating Lantern Ceremony, which took place on Sunday, May 29th. This once-a-year event pays tribute to and honors the memory of loved ones. We were honored to have so many of our ‘Ohana – both Owners and staff – join us this year to ho‘ohanohano a ho‘omana‘o (honor and remember).
A Floating Lantern Ceremony symbolizes the ability to overcome the loss of loved ones, demonstrate love and commitment with deep gratitude and appreciation, and bring inner peace. Originating in Japanese culture, the ceremony is a time to awaken meaningfulness, hope, and renewal to create a better future.
This private event offered Owners at Timbers Kaua’i a floating lantern that was designated specifically for their loved ones, with a personal message being placed on the lantern. From there the lanterns were lit and set adrift in our lagoon. The intention of this intimate event is to honor loved ones who have passed on while cherishing and connecting with the ‘āina and feeling a sense of place.
The ceremony itself started off with a welcome and introduction of our special guests and then proceeded with a Taiko drum performance by Taiko Kaua‘i Drummers. Bishop Kosen Ishikawa performed the Buddhist prayer and then our on-site cultural practitioner, Kalani Flores, delivered the pule (Hawaiian prayer, incantation, and blessing). From there the boats and rafts with the lit lanterns were set adrift in the lagoon as the sun was setting and peaceful music played softly in the background.
It was a touching tribute and we look forward to hosting this event again next year. Mahalo to all of our community partners who helped make the ceremony so meaningful.
