Shinnyo Lantern Floating Ceremony, Ala Moana Beach Park

It's Memorial Day, where we as a nation pay tribute to our fallen military men & women. But lucky, you live Hawaii. You can also pay tribute to a family member, or friend as well, by participating in this solemn ceremony. You can float a lantern, sharing your hope for peace.

I first attended this event in 2017, to honor my brother, then in subsequent years (2018 & 2019) to honor my parents.

Due to COVID-19, this event was postponed, instead being held as a pre-recorded telecast (2020); and privately, over several days at the Shinnyo-en Hawaii temple (2021 & 2022). This year, as with last few, the event can be attended in person.

I'll be at the event, but I'll be wandering around.

You can simply attend the event, participate by floating a lantern, or submit your group remembrance.

OPTION ONE

If you plan to attend the event:
Think of this as one huge Memorial Day beach party. Ala Moana beach will be incredibly crowded. You can come early, or just for the lantern lighting. Lantern floating will start at 6:30, and end at 7:30.

OPTION TWO

If you want to float a lantern:
Those wanting to personally float a lantern during the ceremony may receive a single Individual Lantern per family or group, on a first-come, first-served basis, at the Lantern Request tents at Ala Moana Beach on the event day:

1. Pickup starts from 10 am - 4 pm, or until lanterns run out (Memorial Day);
2. Plan on waiting in line, bring a hat/umbrella & some water;
3. You will receive a lantern kit that you will be able to share your memories/thoughts of your loved ones, by decorating your lantern;
4. Assemble your lantern & bring it to the beach;
5. Floating starts at 6:30;
6. Don't forget to bring something to light your lantern.

OPTION THREE

You can submit your remembrances, without attending:
Through Thursday, May 22, 2025, you may visit the Shinnyo-en Hawaii temple located at 2348 S. Beretania to write your remembrances on the specially prepared paper that will be placed onto a Collective Remembrance Lantern. The temple is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when it is scheduled to be open. (View the temple schedule).

Collective remembrances will also be accepted at the beach on the ceremony day from 10 am – 5 pm at the Collective Remembrance Tent located next to the Lantern Request tents.

(more info):
website | remembrances | ceremony history