Floating Lantern Ceremony Set for Aug. 25

The Fairmont Orchid resort along the Kohala Coast will host the ninth annual North Hawaii Hospice Floating Lantern Ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The ceremony brings together hundreds of residents and visitors of Hawai‘i Island who release lanterns into Pauoa Bay at sunset in commemoration of loved ones who’ve passed on. This community event also celebrates the cultural heritage of Hawaii with live music, hula, Taiko drummers and Hawaiian chanting.

“We’re so grateful to partner with Fairmont Orchid to offer the community such a moving ceremony to honor loved ones who’ve passed on,” says Katherine Werner Brooks, MHA, RN and Executive Director of North Hawaii Hospice. “While the journey of grief can be isolating for so many, this ceremony allows people to come together in shared community to remember those they’ve loved and lost. The strength and support they receive from this evening is profound.”

Lantern floating is an Asian spiritual tradition that symbolizes the wish for all beings to live in peaceful coexistence. As the lanterns are released onto the ocean, they take with them our healing prayers to honor and remember those who have passed. Lanterns are collected at the end of the release, the lantern bases are saved and the lantern papers are collected, dried and burned in a respectful manner.

“We’re honored to host this special day of remembrance every year,” said Fairmont Orchid General Manager, Kelley Cosgrove. “It’s our hope that this ceremony further unifies our community and shows love and respect to those who’ve passed.”

Admission is free and floating lanterns for inscribing messages will be provided for a suggested donation of $10.

Food and beverage will be available for purchase and complimentary self-parking will be available, while carpooling is encouraged.

For more information or reservations, call (800) 257-7544 toll-free or go online.