More than 5,000 floating lanterns illuminate Magic Island as a Memorial Day tradition returns

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Tens of thousands of people gathered at Magic Island on Monday for the annual Shinnyo Lantern Floating ceremony, which honors loved ones who have passed away.

Much smaller versions of the gathering have been held during the pandemic.

Participant Kristen Beauperlant was among those who came out for the special gathering.

“I feel all the love from all the people here like I said it helps being here with other people here who are grieving,” she said.

The Lantern Floating ceremony, held every Memorial Day, honors loved ones who have been lost.

Some 5,000 lanterns ― each bearing personal messages ― illuminated the waters off Ala Moana Beach Park.

They were then gathered up by volunteers in the water.

The in-person ceremony was canceled for the past three years due to the pandemic but was replaced with special broadcasts and virtual ceremonies.

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