Memorial Day – May 29, 2023 from 6:30-7:30pm at Ala Moana Beach, Honolulu
Shinnyo means light, or the light that exists in nature and all living things. It is the goodness, wisdom and compassion that inherently makes up the core of everything living. The Shinnyo Lantern Floating is the honoring and remembering of loved ones who have passed by bringing people together and placing lit lanterns on the ocean. This Buddhist ceremony symbolizes driving out the darkness bringing peace, reconnecting with those around you and the healing within yourself. “Acts of remembrance are also opportunities to reflect on the meaning of life we have been given,” quote from the Head of Shinnyo-en, Her Holiness Shinso Ito.
This breathtaking view of the Hawaiian sunset in the background and glowing lanterns with heartfelt messages written on the sides is like nothing you have ever seen. Watching the lanterns being lit and gently placed into the ocean is a serene and mesmerizing view. If we can imagine peace and harmony surrounding us in a sea of lanterns as we shut out all the adversity… the world would be at peace.
To reserve a lantern: You may reserve a single individual lantern starting on May 15th to float during the ceremony on Memorial Day, May 29th, here. Reservations are first come, first served. Please share a single lantern with with your Ohana. Duplicate lanterns will be cancelled. Lanterns will be available for pickup on Memorial Day, May 29th at Ala Moana Beach in the Lantern Pickup Tent located ewa of the fixed concession stand from 10 am – 4 pm. Lantern pickup will also be available on several dates at Shinnyo-en Hawaii (2348 S. Beretania St.) Your preferred date for pickup may be chosen when making a reservation. You must show proof of reservation to receive individual lantern. No lanterns will be available on the beach on 5/29 without reservation.
If you would like to submit your remembrances for a lantern, click on the link here by Sunday, 5/28, 11:59 pm. Online submissions will be printed and affixed to Collective Remembrance Lanterns that will be floated in the ceremony from the canoes.
If you cannot join the event in person at Ala Moana Beach Park with the thousands of locals and visitors, the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaii 2023 can be viewed on KHON2 (FOX), KHIl and CW from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. HST on May 29, 2023 or streaming on Facebook, YouTube and on khon2.com
Celebrate Shinnyo by “Sharing Your Light” when you appreciate and care for others. This will bring you and everyone around you a brighter future! For more information go to: Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaii
