Lei

What is Lei?

A lei is a garland or necklace, often circular but sometimes open, made by stringing together flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, or even ribbons and paper. Traditional leis are crafted from fresh natural foliage such as plumeria, orchids, maile leaves, or tiny shells, and are worn around the neck or draped over the shoulders. The look and feel of a lei can vary widely, from delicate strands of fragrant flowers to intricate braids of leaves or shells.

Where does Lei come from?

The tradition of making and wearing leis began with ancient Polynesians and some Asian peoples, who used them to signify rank, honor, or affection. Native Hawaiians brought lei customs to the Hawaiian islands, where leis became part of religious and social life, including hula and honoring gods. Leis are also found in the Philippines, where sampaguita flower necklaces are used in religious and welcoming ceremonies. Over time, the practice spread and adapted, gaining popularity in the United States through Hawaiian tourism.

How Lei is made

Leis are made using various techniques, including braiding, twisting, knotting, sewing, and stringing. Flowers, leaves, shells, or even non-traditional materials like ribbon or candy can be used. Methods such as haku (braiding with added materials), hili (braiding one material), hilo (twisting), and kui (piercing and stringing) are common. The choice of materials and method often depends on the occasion and local tradition.

When and where Lei is used

Leis are given for greetings, farewells, celebrations, and to honor or show affection. In Hawaii, they are prominent at graduations, weddings, funerals, and birthdays. In the Philippines, sampaguita leis are used in religious ceremonies and to welcome guests. Lei Day, celebrated on May 1 in Hawaii, honors the tradition with festivities and lei-making. Proper etiquette is observed in giving, receiving, and disposing of leis, reflecting their symbolic value.

Forms of Lei

Different islands and regions have unique lei styles and materials. In Hawaii, each island is represented by a specific flower and color for Lei Day. Niʻihau is known for shell leis, while Tonga and Samoa have their own forms, such as kahoa and asoa. Modern leis may use fabric, paper, or even candy, adapting the tradition for new occasions and practical needs.

What Lei means

Leis symbolize peace, love, honor, and friendship. Their giving marks important life events and transitions. In Hawaii, the act of making and giving a lei is celebrated annually on Lei Day. The lei is deeply tied to Hawaiian identity and hospitality, and customs govern how they are given, worn, and returned to nature. In the Philippines, leis are linked to religious and welcoming rituals.

The flowers of Lei

OrchidA vast family of colourful, often fragrant flowers found almost everywhere on earthDianthusA group of frilled, often pink, flowers grown in gardens and bouquets worldwideCarnationA fragrant flower with ruffled petals, grown worldwide for decoration and meaningPlumeriaFragrant tropical tree with waxy, five-petaled flowers in many coloursMaileA fragrant Hawaiian vine used in lei and local traditionPlumeria albaA small tree with white, fragrant flowers and yellow centersTuberoseA highly fragrant white flower grown from tuberous roots, prized for perfume and decorationFrangipaniA fragrant tropical tree with pink, white and yellow flowers

Traditions that use it

Where to see Lei

🇺🇸 Honolulu · All yearMake a lei in HonoluluLearn to string a Hawaiian flower lei, and see the lei stands of Chinatown.

Days and festivals

Questions people ask about Lei

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Lei (garland) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data