Shinnyo Lantern Floating Ceremony, Ala Moana Beach Park

It's Memorial Day, where we as a nation pay tribute to our fallen military men & women. But lucky, you live Hawaii. You can also pay tribute to a family member, or friend as well, by participating in this solemn ceremony. You can float a lantern, sharing your hope for peace. I first attended this event in 2017, to honor my brother, then in subsequent years (2018 & 2019) to honor my parents. Due to COVID-19, this event was postponed, instead being held as a pre-recorded telecast (2020-22). Since then, the event has been held live at the beach. I'll be at the event: I enjoy wandering around, running into to friends. You can simply attend the event, participate by floating a lantern, or submit your group remembrance (and watch on TV). OPTION ONE If you plan to attend the event: Think of this as one huge Memorial Day beach party. Ala Moana beach will be incredibly crowded. You can come early, or just for the lantern lighting. Lantern floating will start at 6:30, and end at 7:30. OPTION TWO If you want to float a lantern: Those wanting to personally float a lantern during the ceremony may receive a single Individual Lantern per family or group, on a first-come, first-served basis, at the Lantern Request tents at Ala Moana Beach on the event day: 1. Pickup starts from 10 am - 4 pm, or until lanterns run out (Memorial Day); 2. Plan on waiting in line, bring a hat/umbrella & some water; 3. You will receive a lantern kit that you will be able to share your memories/thoughts of your loved ones, by decorating your lantern; 4. Assemble your lantern & bring it to the beach; 5. Floating starts at 6:30; 6. Don't forget to bring something to light your lantern. OPTION THREE You can submit your remembrances, without attending: Through Thursday, May 22, 2025, you may visit the Shinnyo-en Hawaii temple located at 2348 S. Beretania to write your remembrances on the specially prepared paper that will be placed onto a Collective Remembrance Lantern. The temple is…