Who doesn’t like a parade? Since 1969, the Hawaii Kai community has celebrated the advent of the Christmas season with a community parade. Residents in the thousands turn out to watch an event that has nothing to do with commercialism and everything to do with enjoying the holiday spirit. Participants and spectators alike dress up, sing, and celebrate! The street is filled with laughter and joy. And smiles. Lots and lots of smiles.
This year, our Hawaii Life crew enjoyed a jolly trolley ride down Lunalilo Home Road. We sang, we waved, we laughed, and we loved. Gazing out at the spectators was a wonderful reminder of the reason we love our community. The people we live, work, and play with are genuinely good, kindhearted souls. A strong sense of ohana and belonging permeated the air. Joy was evident on the faces of people who waved to us as we passed by. As we sang, the crowd joined in. Some danced. There were shakas, hugs, handshakes, and high-fives. It was a glorious thing.
It’s amazing how a community tradition radiates with residents. Something as simple as an annual parade brings out the best in people. Bonds people. Reminds people.
The parade was indeed a beautiful reminder to us all. A reminder to enjoy that which is good. The goodness of people, the goodness of community, and the goodness of the Christmas season!
Lisa Kumbroch
December 3, 2019
What a beautifully written blog with festive photos! There were definitely lots of smiles & joy. I love our annual traditional community Parade. Thank you, Hawaii Life Agents & Families & Friends, for participating & sharing!