BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM
More than 50,000 people, both Hawaii residents and visitors to the island, are expected to attend the annual Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony.
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Lantern Floating Hawaii combines Memorial Day with Japan’s “toro nagashi” observance for those who have died.
Toro nagashi ends with floating lanterns, representing souls of the dead, making the transition down rivers back to the spirit realm.
Japan still has its own rites; temples also will screen the Hawaii livestream tonight from Ala Moana (lanternfloatinghawaii.com/page/view_ceremony). Another easy way to watch: 6:30 p.m. on KGMB.
More lanterns and more people are expected this year. But those who weather the crowds up close do get the reward: an unforgettable experience.
Happy (summer) days are here again
The Memorial Day weekend traditionally launches the summer season, and in traffic at least, it’s noticeably true.
That’s because the public schools are now on summer break, which means a break for commuters.
Nearly 180,000 fewer public schools students on the roads to make the morning bell will certainly ease the rush-hour traffic. Happy summer!