Hawaii culture is an ancient blend of layers of ethnic influences and is a rich and unique tradition comprised of values, legends, music, dance, and customs. Part of what makes the islands of Hawaii so special, the culture is a big drawcard to this South Pacific holiday destination. Much more than spectacular sunsets, beautiful beaches, and excellent surfing, the Hawaii culture influences everything from language, religion, clothing, and cuisine on the islands. Below are some of the most fascinating facts about the Hawaii culture.
One of the most well-known customs of the Hawaii culture is the lei. Presented as a welcome gesture or on special occasions, a flower lei is an offer of friendship and should only be removed in private. Removing a lei in public is considered rude. Leis range from simple one-strand flower strings to large and elaborate garlands featuring tuberose, orchids and other floral blooms for important occasions.
The hula is another Hawaii culture icon and features colorful costumes and grass skirts, graceful hand movements and the signature swaying hips. Originally men only dance, the hula is now an expression of happiness and fun that can be performed by both men and women. The ancient form of the hula known as hula kahiko is accompanied by percussion and storytelling and is featured in ceremonies or for religious reasons. Costumes are far more colorful in this version and piano guitars or ukuleles provide a rhythm.
Music is an important part of Hawaii culture and has evolved from primal drumbeats to a chorus of chanting voices and even more recently into a modern version of traditional music by a number of genres and artists. These include hapa-haole (a type of music that marries English lyrics with Hawaiian melodies), kolohe (a type of hula renowned for being naughty or a tease), chalangalang, traditional, jawaiian, luau and more.
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