Shinnyo Lantern Floating Returns to Ala Moana Beach for 28th Memorial Day Ceremony

Tens of thousands of flickering lanterns will once again illuminate the waters off Ala Moana Beach Park on Memorial Day evening as the Shinnyo Lantern Floating ceremony returns for its 28th year. The annual event, which draws approximately 50,000 attendees from across the islands and beyond, transforms the shoreline into a luminous memorial honoring loved ones and promoting peace.

Organizers expect the May 25 ceremony to be one of the largest yet, with 6,000 biodegradable paper lanterns available for participants. Lantern pickup begins at 10 a.m. at various stations throughout Magic Island, giving families ample time to write personal messages of remembrance, hope, and healing before the 6:30 p.m. program.

“This ceremony represents something deeply Hawaiian — the connection between our ancestors, our current community, and future generations,” said Keoni Nakamura, a longtime volunteer who has helped coordinate logistics for the past eight years. “Every year, I watch families from all backgrounds come together in this sacred space.”

The event’s roots trace back to a Buddhist tradition, but organizers emphasize its universal message of healing and remembrance. Founded by the Shinnyo-en Buddhist organization, the ceremony has evolved into one of Honolulu’s most inclusive Memorial Day observances, welcoming people regardless of religious or cultural background.

A Community Effort Years in the Making

Behind the serene spectacle lies months of preparation involving hundreds of volunteers. Teams begin assembling biodegradable lanterns weeks in advance, while others coordinate transportation, security, and cleanup efforts for the massive gathering.

Maria Santos, who has attended every ceremony since losing her husband in 2018, now volunteers as a message writer for families who need assistance. She helps visitors — many elderly or overcome with emotion — transcribe their thoughts onto the delicate paper lanterns.

“Some people come with specific names and dates. Others just need someone to listen while they figure out what they want to say,” Santos explained. “I’ve written messages in English, Filipino, Japanese, Portuguese — grief speaks every language.”

The ceremony follows a carefully choreographed schedule designed to accommodate the massive crowds while maintaining the event’s contemplative atmosphere. Musical performances and interfaith prayers precede the lantern release, which typically begins as the sun sets over the Pacific around 7 p.m.

Navigating the Crowds

First-time attendees should arrive early and prepare for significant crowds, particularly in the Magic Island parking area and along Ala Moana Boulevard. Organizers recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing services, as nearby parking fills quickly by mid-afternoon.

Folding chairs and blankets are encouraged, though many participants prefer standing closer to the water’s edge for the lantern release. Food vendors will be stationed throughout the park, but organizers suggest bringing water and snacks for families with young children.

The ceremony’s popularity has grown exponentially since social media began showcasing the dramatic sunset visuals. However, longtime participants emphasize that the event’s true power lies in its communal aspect rather than its photogenic appeal.

“Instagram can’t capture the feeling when 50,000 people fall silent together,” Nakamura noted. “That moment when the lanterns hit the water — it’s something you have to experience.”

Environmental Considerations

All lanterns are constructed from biodegradable materials designed to dissolve safely in ocean water within weeks. Cleanup crews work through the night following the ceremony to collect any debris that washes ashore, while marine biologists monitor the area to ensure minimal environmental impact.

The event organizers have partnered with local environmental groups to continually refine their sustainability practices, including reducing packaging waste and encouraging carpooling among attendees.

For many Honolulu families, Memorial Day wouldn’t feel complete without the lantern floating ceremony. The event has become a cornerstone of the island’s collective grieving process, offering a peaceful alternative to traditional cemetery visits.

As the community continues to navigate ongoing challenges — from the pandemic’s lingering effects to recent tragedies affecting Hawaii residents — the ceremony’s message of unity and healing resonates more deeply than ever. This year’s gathering promises to honor not just individual losses, but the shared resilience that defines island life.

The Shinnyo Lantern Floating ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. on May 25 at Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park. Lantern pickup starts at 10 a.m. at designated stations. The event is free and open to the public.