by princesses representing the eight major islands of Hawaii and Molokini. Each princess is attended by pau ladies in waiting. Pau women are dressed in colorful and elegant 19th century riding gowns accented with lei and other floral arrangements. After the parade, the state celebrates a Hoolaulea, literally celebration, or block party with food and music. Cultural exhibitions are also scattered throughout Kapiolani Park—arts and crafts, games, sports, and other events planned by the Bishop Museum, the premier Hawaiian cultural institution. On the Island of Hawaii, there are three floral parades held. One between the towns of Hawi and Kapaau and one in the town of Hilo. There is a King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade and Hoolaulea in Kailua Kona on Alii Drive each year. There is also a lei draping ceremony in Kapaau at the statue of King Kamehameha there. Draping ceremony The most important ritual of the celebration dates back to 1901 after the Territory of Hawaii was established. It is the afternoon draping ceremony in which the Kamehameha Statue in front of Aliiolani Hale and Iolani Palace on King Street in downtown Honolulu is draped in long strands of lei. The same is done at the Kamehameha Statue on the former monarch's home island, the Big Island of Hawaii. Outside of the state, a similar draping ceremony is held at the United States Capitol where the Kamehameha Statue there is also draped in lei in the company of federal officials. Celebration The celebration includes a traditional Pa‘u Parade and a Ho‘olaule‘a. The celebrations are organized by the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission and other community organizations. References Further reading External links King Kamehameha Celebration Commission Celebrations in Hawaii State holidays in the United States June observances 1871 establishments in Hawaii Flower festivals in the United States