when is boys day in hawaii

Boys' Day in Hawaiʻi is celebrated on May 5th. This tradition originates from the Japanese holiday Tango no Sekku, which was brought to Hawaiʻi by Japanese immigrants. On Boys' Day, families fly colorful carp streamers called koinobori outside their homes, with each carp representing a male family member. The celebration honors the health, vitality, and success of boys in the family. Although in Japan the holiday has evolved into Children's Day, in Hawaiʻi Boys' Day remains a distinct celebration. Popular traditions include displaying samurai dolls, eating special rice cakes like kashiwa mochi and chimaki mochi, and flying the koi flags to symbolize strength and perseverance.