One of the most interesting and beautiful events in Honolulu on Memorial Day weekend is the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Ceremony. The ceremony is hosted by the Shinnyo-en Buddhist sect, which provides free lanterns for people to float into the water. All are welcome, even non-Buddhists. The floating lanterns represent the souls of the departed and are a beautiful way for people to remember their loved ones. The lanterns are made of paper, on which personal messages can be written. You then light a candle, set it in the lantern, and place it in a boat that floats into the water. The sight of the floating lanterns at sunset forms a perfect backdrop for personal reflection. Later, volunteers will collect the boats for reuse next year. Held at Ala Moana Beach Park at Magic Island, the event includes musical performances. There is no cost to receive a lantern. Voluntary donations received at Ala Moana Beach are gifted to the City & County of Honolulu Department of Parks & Recreation for the upkeep and beautification of Ala Moana Regional Park. More info: Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai‘i (lanternfloatinghawaii.com)
If you wish to personally receive to float a lantern during the ceremony, Individual Lanterns will be distributed first-come, first-served at the Lantern Request Tent at Ala Moana Beach on Monday. No advanced reservations will be taken. All lantern parts are given in a carrying bag. Quiet space is provided for writing remembrances and assembling the lantern. Pens are provided in the tent.
Not able to come in person? You can visit their website to submit a remembrance online. You can also watch the 2025 ceremony broadcast on KHON2 TV or the event YouTube channel.
More info: FAQs – Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai‘i and Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi 2024 (Official) | Facebook
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Jackie says
Is it still possible to order a lantern from afar? Did it before but can’t find a way to do it now.
Carole Cancler says
Here’s the website link to participate from afar: https://lanternfloatinghawaii.com/take-part/
Jackie says
Want the same as before fo4 parents and granddaughter.
Carole Cancler says
We have nothing to do with management of the floating lantern event. You need to go to their website to reserve a lantern: https://lanternfloatinghawaii.com/. We also found a page on their website where you can participate from afar: https://lanternfloatinghawaii.com/take-part/