No one has a definite reason as to why this day is the National day of the state, as August 21, 1959, is the date that Hawai’i was officially united with the rest of the 49 states of America. Located in the Pacific Ocean, nearly 2,500 miles from the coast of California (although, the curve of the coastline makes the northern cities like San Francisco closer than it is to southern cities like San Diego), it is the 50th state of the United States- our beloved Hawai’i.

 

Most correlate these islands with beautiful scenery, tropical flora, and fauna, clear water, stunning beaches, romance, and bucket-list destinations. (Plus, we can’t forget the surfing, hiking, scuba diving, fishing, and camping activities!) The beaches, magnificent volcanoes, and exotic environment of Hawai’i speak to a rich, sundry heritage that embraces and charms everyone. Taught throughout generations, dance, music, and song keep customs alive in a breathtaking milieu surrounded by ancient history.

 

But here are some things you may not know: As a bit of a backstory, nearly 2,000 years ago, Polynesians navigated the Pacific in vessels from the west. Captain James Cook sailed to the islands in 1778, where on the big island, he would later meet his death. 
 

 

For generations, Hawai’i was ruled by the hand of the Kamehameha dynasty. ((In fact, King Kamehameha is still honored traditionally in Hawai’i with statues, festivals, and his very own day: June 11^th. For more information, click here.))

 

Interesting facts:

Also known as the Aloha State or Hawai’i island, Hawai’i includes eight islands, the largest of which is called Hawaii. The next in size is the Maui, Oahu, and Kauai islands followed by Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. 

 

But that’s not all…

• You can mail a coconut from here. Dried-out unhusked coconuts are sold ready for you to surprise someone in the post.
• Per year Hawaii grows by around 42 acres due to the Kilauea Volcano.
• It is the only state in the US that commercially grows coffee.
• The Big Island had both the highest and lowest recorded temperatures.
• Hawaii lost more species of wildlife and has more endangered species than any other state.
• Refusing to wear a lei flower if anyone offers it is considered disrespectful.
• Dole Plantation in Oahu is home to the world's largest pineapple maze.
• Hawaii was the first state to ban bags made from plastic.
• Hawaii is the only state composed entirely of islands in the US.
• Gambling is illegal.
• Hawaii is the second-largest state in the United States.
• Hawaii has its own time zone, known as Hawaiian Standard Time.
• The word ‘Hawaii’ derives from the ‘Hawaiki’ of Proto-Polynesia, meaning ‘Place of the Gods’ or ‘Homeland’.
• All beaches are open to the public.
• It’s rabies-free. Extremely strict quarantine laws are in place to keep it that way.
• Hawaii's Island is the Hawaiian chain's youngest and largest island. It is about twice as large as all the other Hawaiian Islands combined.
• Hawaii island composed of five volcanoes, two of which are still active is Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

Plus - did you know that the island of Niihau is forbidden? “In reality, Niihau was made the ‘Forbidden Island’ during a Hawaiian Islands polio outbreak in 1952. The name stuck and, indeed, the only people permitted for generations were relatives of the Robinsons on Niihau and the approximately 130 Native Niihuans living in Puuwai village.”

 

Want to celebrate this day with fun Hawaiian-themed activities?

Here are a few you can do:

1. Make leis
   The flower garland used as a token of greeting or farewell for visitors to the island can make a mindful craft project. Don’t have fresh flowers? Make some out of colored felt or construction paper. 

2. Learn to dance the hula
   Move to the hip-swaying beat of this traditional Hawaiian dance. ((Here’s a tutorial I found on YouTube for you 😊 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qO10aSsWSU))

3. Throw a Hawaiian-themed party
   The dress code is Hawaiian shirts and flowers. Welcome guests with leis, and serve tropical drinks along with grilled seafood and meat. Make a playlist of songs with a Hawaiian theme like “Blue Hawaii” by Elvis Presley and the theme from “Hawaii 5-O” to get into the island spirit. ((Tiny Bubbles, a song made famous by Don Ho in 1966) is my personal fav: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t45DKmtzTHo))

 

So, what else makes us love National Hawai’i Day?

It embodies the ‘Aloha Spirit’.

 

Hawaiian Spirit Law or the Aloha Spirit, is the balance between the heart and mind within a person. It’s the practice of spreading good feelings towards others. It extends warmth and caring to others without asking for anything in return.  ((Ever heard of the practice of ho’oponopono? Learn more by clicking here.))

Mahalo to all of you who took the time to read this. We hope you learned something new! 😊

 

 

Hawaiian Healing Skin Care Products are FILLED with the finest natural and organic ingredients. Our glass and bamboo packaging help to support sustainability and are eco-friendly. By having some of the most luxurious ingredients sourced directly from the islands of Hawai’i, and all over the globe, Hawaiian Healing Skin Care is able to provide your skin with the best all-natural and organic skincare products available.