On New Year's morning, hundreds of early risers gathered at the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline to participate in the annual First Day Hike. This tradition, observed in state parks across all 50 states, highlights the natural beauty of America’s parks. In Hawaii, the event took place along the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail, according to a news release by DLNR, reported by the Office of the Governor.
Hawaii's First Day Hike included a variety of cultural performances, such as the blowing of a pu, an oli chant, and appearances by Japanese taiko drummers and a Scottish bagpiper. While Alabama hosted 17 similar hikes, according to Matt Young, southwest district superintendent for Alabama State Parks, Hawaii's event featured unique elements that set it apart.
Kumu Sam Gon and Halau Mele led the pre-dawn ceremony, performing traditional Hawaiian chants to begin the day. Curt Cottrell, administrator of the DLNR Division of State Parks, noted the significance of the Asian cultural influence at the event.
Charles "Scott" Walker, a bagpiper with the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement, concluded the morning by playing for participants as they walked down the trail. Officers from the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement managed traffic along the highway, ensuring the safety of both pedestrians and vehicles.
