A workshop about pa‘u equestrian traditions and practices will be held at Kona Historical Society on Saturday beginning at 9:30 a.m.
In preparation for the upcoming King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade in historic Kailua Village on June 8, the workshop will highlight lei making, pa‘u history and tradition, parade protocol and the wrapping of the fabric.
Open to the public, the free event will be led by kumu (teachers) of the pa‘u tradition.
Lei for horse and rider are made from flowers and plants that represent the colors and traditions of the Hawaiian islands. This year’s parade will feature pa‘u units representing the eight major islands led by their respective pa‘u princesses, along with the pa‘u queen and her unit.
The queen and princesses are responsible for organizing their units, including the gathering of natural materials for lei making. Each unit prepares for weeks in advance prior to parade day.
Info: Contact parade chairman Barbara Nobriga at 322-9944, or visit KonaParade.org.