HONOLULU (KHON2) — Thousands of people and visitors showed up in Waikiki on Saturday, Sept. 27, for the 77th annual Aloha Festivals floral parade.
Nearly eight decades later, Aloha Festivals continues to celebrate Hawaiian culture, “integrating the islands’ traditions through music, dance, cuisine and art.”
The parade filled the Waikiki streets with vibrant floats, traditional pāʻu riding, marching bands and hālau hula.
This year’s theme — Ko Kula Uka, Ko Kula Kai — which means from the mountains to the ocean.
According to Monte McComber, culture director at Royal Hawaiian Center, the theme reflects traditional times “where community took care of one another.”
“Celebrating the people in our families who make the food, or who cook the food, who organize these family organizations, the farmers in our communities, the fishermen in our communities, the organizations in our communities that provide, that share food, that take care of the elderly, etc. or provide for those in need,” McComber explained.
Parade attendees were treated to a presentation of the Aloha Festivals 2025 Royal Court, as well as several community organizations and local leaders.
Of course, a very special member of the KHON2 ohana made his special appearance as this year’s Grand Marshal — Chef Sam Choy.
And considering the theme of this year’s parade, Chef Choy said it best, “They got the right guy!”
Check out more news from around Hawaii
For more information on Aloha Festivals, visit their website.