We love coming across a unique experience here and there as we travel!  This Saturday was the 72nd Waimea Paniolo Parade and Festival in Waimea, just 40 miles from Kona.   It celebrated the original paniolo families,  the cowboys who have ridden the range of the Parker Ranch since the days of King Kamehameha!  Also honored were local community members, their elders, local politicians   and even Miss Hawaii.   Each group or individual  honored the Ali’i, the royalty of the day, in a ceremony with tribute and gifts.  The presentation of the gifts is a Mahalo (thank you) to the royal chief.   A highlight was the depiction  and an honoring of the past Hawaiian Ali’i,  princesses on horseback.   What a treat to see! 

After the resort first responder vehicles,  the Ali’i arrive.   They walked barefoot almost 2 miles.  The conch shell was blown as they approached the royalty grand stand

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Many families of paniolo followers,  honoring their ancestors who have worked as cowboys on the local Parker ranch.

Many local Waimea community were honored, along with some who have passed away.   Even a few local politicians joined the parade.

Each participant brought a gift or tribute to the Ali’i, flowers,  leis. Small gifts wrapped in a tea leaf,  a dance or chant.   It was amazing to watch.   here are some middle school kids and their offering

Riding along with the paniolo and the groups offering to the Ali’i, were ladies representing and honoring the Princesses of the past,  the ancient Ali’i

The narration told us about each princess represented, their birthdate and  some history about them

Horses,  vesicles,  and everyone was affirmed with beautiful flowers, flower and leis made of leaves big enough for horses!  Even the gentlemen

After the parade,  there was a food and craft festival in the district park

Even the travel along Hualalai, by Mauna Loa then Mauna Kea toward Kohala to Waimea and back was a lovely drive.   Our day was a wonderful display of ALOHA, the Hawaiian spirit.