The tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies has a rich and diverse history. The practice of giving and wearing lei dates back to ancient Polynesia, where it was used as a way to honor and celebrate important milestones and events. In Hawaii, the tradition of giving lei at graduation ceremonies can be traced back to the early 1900s, when it became a popular way for families and friends to show their love and support for the graduates. Over time, the practice spread to other parts of the world, including the mainland United States, where it has become a beloved tradition for many graduates.
The tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies has deep cultural significance and is a symbol of love, respect, and honor. In Hawaiian culture, lei are often made from flowers, leaves, or other natural materials, and each type of lei carries its own special meaning. For example, a lei made from maile leaves is considered a symbol of respect and admiration, while a lei made from plumeria flowers is a symbol of love and friendship. The tradition of giving and wearing lei at graduation ceremonies has become an important part of the celebration, and it continues to be a meaningful way for families and friends to show their support for the graduates.
Key Takeaways
- Graduation lei have a long history dating back to ancient Polynesia and have become a popular tradition in modern graduation ceremonies.
- There are various types of lei for graduation, including flower lei, candy lei, and money lei, each with its own unique significance and symbolism.
- Lei are significant in graduation ceremonies as they symbolize honor, respect, and the transition to a new chapter in life.
- Making your own graduation lei can be a meaningful and personal way to celebrate the occasion, using materials such as flowers, ribbons, and other decorative items.
- Cultural variations of lei in graduation traditions can be seen in different countries and regions, with unique customs and materials used to create lei for graduation ceremonies.
Different Types of Lei for Graduation
There are many different types of lei that are commonly used for graduation ceremonies, each with its own unique significance and symbolism. In Hawaii, the most traditional type of lei is made from fresh flowers, such as orchids, plumeria, or tuberose. These fragrant and colorful flower lei are often worn around the neck or draped over the shoulders, and they are a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the achievement of graduation. In addition to flower lei, there are also other types of lei that are commonly used for graduation ceremonies, such as kukui nut lei, maile lei, and ti leaf lei.
Kukui nut lei are made from the seeds of the kukui tree and are often dyed in various colors to create a vibrant and eye-catching accessory. Maile lei are made from the fragrant leaves of the maile vine and are often worn by men as a symbol of respect and honor. Ti leaf lei are made from the leaves of the ti plant and are often used in traditional Hawaiian ceremonies as a symbol of protection and good luck. Each type of lei carries its own special meaning and symbolism, and they are all beautiful and meaningful ways to celebrate the achievement of graduation.
The Significance of Lei in Graduation Ceremonies
The tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies holds deep significance and symbolism for both the graduates and their loved ones. Lei are a symbol of love, respect, and honor, and they are a meaningful way for families and friends to show their support for the graduates as they celebrate this important milestone in their lives. The act of giving and receiving lei is a gesture of love and appreciation, and it is a way to honor the hard work and dedication that the graduates have put into their education.
For the graduates, wearing lei at their graduation ceremony is a way to feel connected to their loved ones and to feel their support and encouragement as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. It is a tangible symbol of the love and pride that their families and friends have for them, and it is a beautiful way to mark this special occasion. For the families and friends of the graduates, giving lei is a way to show their love and support in a tangible and meaningful way. It is a way to honor the graduates and to celebrate their achievements, and it is a tradition that holds deep cultural significance and symbolism.
How to Make Your Own Graduation Lei
| Materials | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Fresh flowers | 1. Gather fresh flowers of your choice. |
| String or ribbon | 2. Cut a piece of string or ribbon to your desired length. |
| Scissors | 3. Cut the flowers into small sections. |
| Needle | 4. Thread the flowers onto the string or ribbon using a needle. |
| Optional: Beads or other decorations | 5. Add beads or other decorations if desired. |
Making your own graduation lei can be a fun and meaningful way to celebrate this special occasion. There are many different types of lei that you can make, from traditional flower lei to more modern styles using ribbon or candy. If you want to make a traditional flower lei, you will need fresh flowers, string or ribbon, and scissors. Start by cutting the flowers into small sections, then thread them onto the string or ribbon until you have created a full and beautiful lei. You can also add greenery or other decorative elements to make your lei even more unique.
If you want to make a more modern style of lei, you can use materials such as ribbon, fabric, or even candy to create a fun and unique accessory. For example, you can make a ribbon lei by cutting strips of colorful ribbon and tying them together in a pattern to create a beautiful and eye-catching accessory. You can also make a candy lei by stringing your favorite candies onto a string or ribbon to create a sweet and delicious accessory. No matter what type of lei you choose to make, creating your own graduation lei is a fun and creative way to celebrate this special occasion.
Cultural Variations of Lei in Graduation Traditions
The tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies has deep cultural significance in many different parts of the world, and there are many variations in how this tradition is practiced. In Hawaii, for example, it is common for graduates to receive multiple lei from their family and friends, which they wear proudly throughout the ceremony. In some Asian cultures, it is traditional for graduates to receive money lei, which are made by folding dollar bills into intricate designs that are then strung together to create a beautiful and meaningful accessory.
In some parts of Polynesia, it is traditional for graduates to receive maile lei as a symbol of respect and honor, while in other parts of the world, graduates may receive lei made from different types of flowers or materials that hold special significance in their culture. No matter where the tradition is practiced, wearing lei at graduation ceremonies is a meaningful way to honor the achievements of the graduates and to show love and support for them as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
Modern Trends in Graduation Lei
While traditional flower lei continue to be popular for graduation ceremonies, there are also many modern trends in graduation lei that have emerged in recent years. One popular trend is the use of money lei, which are made by folding dollar bills into intricate designs that are then strung together to create a beautiful and meaningful accessory. Money lei are a fun and creative way to give a practical gift to the graduates while also honoring the tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies.
Another modern trend in graduation lei is the use of non-traditional materials such as ribbon, fabric, or even candy to create unique and eye-catching accessories. Ribbon lei are made by cutting strips of colorful ribbon and tying them together in a pattern to create a beautiful and eye-catching accessory. Candy lei are made by stringing your favorite candies onto a string or ribbon to create a sweet and delicious accessory that is sure to be a hit with graduates of all ages. These modern trends in graduation lei offer new and creative ways to celebrate this special occasion while still honoring the tradition of wearing lei at graduation ceremonies.
Etiquette and Protocol for Giving and Receiving Lei at Graduation
There are certain etiquette and protocols that should be followed when giving and receiving lei at graduation ceremonies. When giving lei to a graduate, it is important to do so with love and respect, as it is a gesture that holds deep cultural significance. It is customary to place the lei around the graduate’s neck or drape it over their shoulders while offering words of congratulations and encouragement. It is also customary for the graduate to accept the lei with gratitude and humility as a symbol of appreciation for the love and support shown by their family and friends.
When receiving multiple lei at a graduation ceremony, it is important for the graduate to wear all of them proudly throughout the ceremony as a sign of respect for the givers. After the ceremony, it is customary for the graduate to take photos with each person who gave them a lei as a way to commemorate this special occasion. It is also customary for the graduate to wear their lei for as long as possible after the ceremony as a way to show their appreciation for this meaningful gesture.
In conclusion, wearing lei at graduation ceremonies holds deep cultural significance and symbolism as a way to honor the achievements of the graduates and show love and support for them as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Whether made from traditional flowers or more modern materials such as ribbon or candy, giving and wearing lei at graduation ceremonies is a beautiful way to celebrate this special occasion with love, respect, and honor.
If you’re looking for some creative ideas for making your own graduation lei, check out this article on Mercy Writes. They offer step-by-step instructions and inspiration for crafting a beautiful lei to celebrate your loved one’s achievement. Whether you want to use fresh flowers, candy, or even money, this article has plenty of ideas to help you create a unique and meaningful lei for the special graduate in your life.
FAQs
What is a graduation lei?
A graduation lei is a traditional Hawaiian garland of flowers, leaves, or other materials that is given to graduates as a symbol of congratulations and honor.
What is the significance of a graduation lei?
In Hawaiian culture, the giving and receiving of leis is a gesture of love, respect, and aloha. Graduation leis are given to honor the achievements of the graduate and to wish them luck in their future endeavors.
What are some common materials used to make graduation leis?
Common materials used to make graduation leis include flowers such as orchids, plumeria, and tuberose, as well as leaves, ribbon, and other decorative elements.
How are graduation leis worn?
Graduation leis are typically worn around the neck, similar to a necklace. They can be worn individually or layered for a more elaborate look.
Are graduation leis only used in Hawaiian culture?
While graduation leis have strong ties to Hawaiian culture, they are also commonly used in other parts of the world as a symbol of celebration and honor for graduates.