HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Royal Court Investiture and Opening Ceremony will kick off the month-long Aloha Festivals celebration with its treasured cultural protocols. That’s going to be this Saturday, Sept. 6 at Royal Hawaiian Center.
According to Royal Court Chair Blaine Kia, the ceremony presented by Waimea Valley Hiʻipaka sets the foundation for everything that follows during Aloha Festivals month.
By beginning with the honoring of Hawaiʻi’s Aliʻi, they ground the festival in respect for the history and culture. It’s a chance for both kamaʻāina and visitors to witness traditions that date back centuries, right in the center of Waikiki.
Kia said it will be a truly regal evening in the heart of Waikīkī. The ceremony begins at Helumoa Gardens at The Royal Hawaiian, where the new Royal Court is formally invested with traditional regalia, and the reign of the 2024 court is passed on to the 2025 court.
Community groups will then have the chance to honor the court with hoʻokupu, or ceremonial gifts. Afterward, the Opening Ceremony continues at Royal Hawaiian Center with hula and mele performed for the court on the Centerstage at the beautiful Royal Grove.
It’s a moving experience that blends history, tradition and artistry.
Kia recommends arriving early to find a comfortable spot to witness the ceremonies. There are a couple other Waikīkī-based events happening later that day so arriving early will provide the most seamless experience. For more information, visit the Aloha Festivals website.