- Country
- Hawaii
- Origin Story
- The Floating Lantern Ceremony in Hawaii is inspired by the Japanese tradition of Toro Nagashi, which translates to 'lantern offerings on water.' This practice was introduced to Hawaii by the Shinnyo-en Buddhist order in 1952 and has since evolved into a multicultural event that honors the spirits of the deceased and promotes peace and harmony.
- Folklore Type
- Memorial Ceremony
- Event Date
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
- Ritual Significance
- Participants inscribe messages and prayers on lanterns to honor deceased loved ones and to pray for a peaceful future. The act of floating lanterns symbolizes the release of spirits and the sending of positive intentions across the waters.
- Fun Fact
- The ceremony attracts over 40,000 attendees annually, including residents and visitors from around the world, making it one of Hawaii's most significant and visually stunning events.
- Duration
- Approximately 2 hours
- Symbol
- Lanterns symbolize the guiding light for spirits and the transmission of prayers and wishes across the water.
TheLysts
