How to Say “Happy Lei Day” in Hawaiian

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Hauʻoli Lā Lei
/hau̯ˈʔo.li ˈlaː ˈlei̯/word by word
The Hawaiian phrase for "happy lei day" is Hauʻoli Lā Lei.
Hauʻoli Lā Lei is a greeting used specifically to wish someone a happy Lei Day. This holiday celebrates the tradition of giving flower garlands.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is composed of hauʻoli (happy), lā (day) and lei (garland/lei).

How do you pronounce it?

/hau̯ˈʔo.li ˈlaː ˈlei̯/. The word has 5 syllables and the stress is on the 2nd syllable.

When do people say it?

Lei Day is a tradition often observed in schools and communities in Hawaii.

Did you know?

  • In Hawaiian, the word lei can mean both a flower wreath and a 'child'.
  • Traditionally, a lei is not just a decoration but a symbol of affection and aloha that should never be refused.
  • While lei are most famous as flowers, they can be made from feathers, shells, leaves or even candy.

Examples in context

  • Hauʻoli Lā Lei!
    Happy Lei Day!
  • Hauʻoli Lā Lei iā ʻoe.
    Happy Lei Day to you.
  • Hauʻoli Lā Lei iā kākou!
    Happy Lei Day to us all!

Example conversation

Ikaika greets Leilani with a flower garland.

  1. Ikaika

    Hauʻoli Lā Lei, Leilani!
    Happy Lei Day, Leilani!
  2. Leilani

    Mahalo, Ikaika! Hauʻoli Lā Lei!
    Thank you, Ikaika! Happy Lei Day!
  3. Ikaika

    He lei nani kēia no ʻoe.
    This is a beautiful lei for you.
  4. Leilani

    He lei nani loa ia!
    It is a very beautiful lei!

Sources

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Chase George
Chase GeorgeHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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