Memorial Day Poster Contest: Hawaii Keiki Celebrate With Lei-Making Art

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 25, 2025

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The Significance of Memorial Day in Hawaii

Memorial Day is a time for reflection and gratitude, a day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. In Hawaii, this significance is amplified by the state's deep connection to the military. From the pivotal role played in World War II, particularly the attack on Pearl Harbor, to the ongoing presence of numerous military bases, Hawaii's history is intertwined with the nation's military service.

• Pearl Harbor's Legacy: The attack on Pearl Harbor profoundly impacted Hawaii and the nation, leaving an enduring mark on the collective memory. Memorial Day serves as a crucial time to remember the victims and heroes of this tragic event.
• Pacific Theater Remembrance: Hawaii served as a strategic location during the Pacific Theater of World War II, and many brave soldiers fought and died defending these islands. This Memorial Day, let's honor their courage and sacrifice.
• Contemporary Military Presence: The continued presence of military personnel and families in Hawaii strengthens the community's connection to Memorial Day and the importance of honoring those who serve.

The Lei-Making Art Component

Lei-making is an integral part of Hawaiian culture, symbolizing love, respect, and honor. The creation and gifting of a lei is a deeply meaningful act, often used to express gratitude, celebrate achievements, or pay tribute. Incorporating lei-making into this Memorial Day poster contest adds a unique layer of cultural significance, allowing keiki to express their patriotism through a distinctly Hawaiian lens.

• Symbolic Significance: The vibrant colors and fragrant blossoms of a lei represent the beauty and life that should be cherished, making it a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives for freedom.
• Materials & Techniques: Traditional lei-making often uses flowers like plumeria, orchids, and hibiscus. For this contest, keiki can explore various materials, including traditional flowers, recycled materials, or even painted representations of lei, fostering creativity while respecting the tradition.
• Memorial Lei: The act of creating a memorial lei adds a personal touch to the tribute, making the connection between the artwork and the remembrance even stronger.

Contest Details & Rules

This Hawaii Keiki Memorial Day Art Competition is open to children aged 5-12. The theme is "Remembering Our Heroes," encouraging creative expressions of patriotism, remembrance, and gratitude for fallen soldiers.

• Poster Size: Standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper.
• Materials: Crayons, markers, colored pencils, paint, and other art supplies are welcome; however, the incorporation of elements relating to lei-making is highly encouraged.
• Submission: Entries can be submitted online (through a designated website or email address) or in person at designated drop-off locations.
• Deadline: Submissions must be received by [Date].
• Judging: A panel of judges comprised of art educators and community members will evaluate the entries based on creativity, artistic skill, and the expression of the contest theme.
• Prizes: Winners will receive awards and recognition during a special ceremony on [Date].

Promoting the Memorial Day Poster Contest

Promoting this event will be crucial in garnering participation. We plan to utilize a multi-pronged approach to reach a wide audience.

• Social Media Campaign: We will use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to spread the word, using relevant hashtags like #MemorialDayHawaii, #KeikiArt, #LeiMaking, and #PatrioticArt.
• Local News Outlets: We will contact local news channels and newspapers to announce the contest and highlight its unique aspects.
• School Outreach: We will reach out to schools across Hawaii to encourage participation and distribute contest information.
• Community Partnerships: We will partner with community organizations and local businesses to help promote the event.

The judging criteria will focus on creativity, artistic skill, and the effective representation of the Memorial Day theme and the integration of lei-making elements. An award ceremony will be held to honor the winning entries and celebrate the talents of Hawaii’s keiki.

Expected Outcomes and Impact

This Memorial Day poster contest aims to achieve several key outcomes.

• Educational Value: The contest will provide keiki with a valuable educational experience, fostering their creativity, artistic skills, and understanding of Memorial Day's significance.
• Community Building: It will bring together families and the community in a shared celebration of patriotism and Hawaiian culture.
• Showcase of Talent: The winning artwork will be showcased at [Location] to celebrate the creativity of Hawaii's young artists and honor the memory of fallen soldiers.
• Promoting Hawaiian Culture: The contest helps preserve and promote the importance of lei-making, a cherished aspect of Hawaiian tradition.

Conclusion: Celebrate Memorial Day with Artistic Expression

This Memorial Day Poster Contest offers a unique and meaningful way for Hawaii's keiki to express their patriotism and connect with their cultural heritage. By combining the solemnity of Memorial Day with the vibrant artistry of lei-making, this contest encourages creative expression while honoring the sacrifices made for our freedom. Enter the Memorial Day Poster Contest today and let your creativity bloom! Share this opportunity with other Hawaii keiki and help us honor our fallen heroes with beautiful lei-inspired art. Participate in this enriching Hawaii Keiki Memorial Day Art Contest and submit your artwork before the deadline!