Riding with Aloha: Your Guide to the 77th Annual in Waikīkī
If you’re planning to be on Oʻahu this September, mark your calendar for one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved cultural celebrations — the 77th Annual Floral Parade, happening Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
From majestic horseback riders draped in fresh flowers to energetic hula dancers and vibrant floats, this iconic event is a vivid celebration of Hawaiian culture, unity, and the spirit of aloha. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Floral Parade is a must-see tradition that brings Waikīkī to life in a kaleidoscope of color, music, and community pride.
🌸 A Parade Rooted in Tradition
The Floral Parade is the grand finale of Aloha Festivals, a month-long celebration that began back in 1946 as Aloha Week. Its goal? To honor and preserve Hawaiian culture through music, dance, and community events. Over the decades, the Aloha Festivals have grown into the largest cultural celebration in the state — and the Floral Parade remains its most dazzling crescendo.
What makes the parade uniquely Hawaiian is its emphasis on pāʻū riders — women and men on horseback dressed in elaborate, flower-covered garments representing each of the Hawaiian islands. These riders honor a tradition dating back to the 1800s, when royal Hawaiian women would ride horses adorned in long, flowing skirts and lei.
🌼 What to Expect in 2025
The 77th Annual Floral Parade will start at Ala Moana Park, travel down the bustling Kalākaua Avenue, and wrap up at Kapiʻolani Park near Diamond Head.
Highlights of the Parade Line-Up Include:
- 🌸 Intricate Floral Floats: Crafted with fresh Hawaiian flowers in every shade of the rainbow — think plumeria, hibiscus, orchids, and more.
- 🐎 Traditional Pāʻū Riders: Representing each island with colorful garments and lei-strewn horses.
- 🥁 Marching Bands: Local high school and college bands bring the beat with pride.
- 💃 Hālau Hula Performances: Watch dancers perform hula kahiko and hula ʻauana in full regalia.
- 🤝 Civic and Cultural Groups: Celebrating the diverse and welcoming spirit of the islands.
The entire event reflects the deep cultural pride of Hawai‘i and the harmony of its people. It’s as much about storytelling as it is about pageantry.
🪑 Where to Sit
Parade viewing is free and open to the public, but for the best experience, try to get a spot near one of the official grand stands, which feature live narration to give context and history behind each group.
Recommended Viewing Areas:
- Ala Moana Park (Start Point)
- Prince Waikiki
- Royal Hawaiian Center
- Moana Surfrider (Mid-Parade)
Pro tip: Get there early, especially if you’re eyeing front-row seats! Locals often bring folding chairs, umbrellas, and even breakfast to stake out the best spots.
📺 Watch It from Home
Can’t make it to Waikīkī in person? No worries — the entire parade will be broadcast and livestreamed by KHON, one of Hawai‘i’s major TV networks. It’s a great way to experience the magic from anywhere in the world. Stay tuned for exact broadcast times as the date approaches.
🎟️ Do You Need Tickets?
No tickets needed! The Floral Parade is completely free to attend. Whether you’re walking along the route or watching from a grand stand, it’s an inclusive, all-ages event open to everyone. That’s part of the beauty of the Aloha Festivals — they bring the community together, no matter who you are or where you're from.
🌞 Travel Tips for Parade Day
Here are some friendly tips to make the most of your Floral Parade experience:
- Arrive early (before 8 a.m.) to grab a good spot, especially in shaded areas.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat — Hawaiian sun is no joke!
- Parking can be tricky, so consider using public transportation, rideshare, or walking if you're staying nearby.
- Wear your aloha attire — floral prints, lei, and comfy footwear encouraged!
- Respect the culture: This isn’t just a parade — it’s a living cultural ceremony. Be mindful and appreciative of the traditions on display.
🌈 More Than Just a Parade
The Floral Parade isn’t just entertainment — it’s a powerful expression of Hawaiian identity and resilience. It honors the past while celebrating the vibrant present and future of the islands. And there's nothing quite like watching the entire community come together with a shared love for culture, land, and people.
So whether you’re visiting for the first time or call Oʻahu home, don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable island tradition.
More from
Pacific Islands
Category
