Hawai‘i Care Choices is honored to host the 22nd Annual Celebration of Life - Lantern Floating Event on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Reeds Bay Beach Park in Hilo, from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM. As Hawai'i Island’s largest lantern floating event, this deeply meaningful gathering provides a space for remembrance and healing, attracting more than 2,500 attendees annually. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, this event remains free and open to the public.
The program will begin with a traditional Bon Dance, led by the Hilo Bon Dance Club and Tsukikage Odori Kai Dancers, marking the first Bon Dance of the Obon season to honor those who have passed. Attendees will experience a moving tribute featuring multi-faith prayers, hula performances, and live music, culminating in the lantern release at sunset. Families will have the opportunity to personalize and decorate luminaries, which will be released into the serene waters of Reed’s Bay as a symbolic farewell to their loved ones.
Event Highlights:
- Luminary Decorating Tents
- Food Trucks
- Special Event T-shirts
- Hula Hālau & Live Music Performances
- Multi-Faith Blessings and Prayers
- Lantern Floating Ceremony at Sunset
Parking & Transportation:
Free parking will be available at Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium, with continuous shuttle services running to and from Reed’s Bay between 2:30 PM and 7:45 PM.