Graduation leis have become one of the most recognizable symbols of academic celebration, particularly in Hawaii and the broader Pacific Islands, but increasingly across the mainland United States and beyond. For anyone searching “what are graduation leis,” the answer is clear within the first hundred words: they are garlands, often made of flowers but now also adapted with money, candy, or other creative materials, given to graduates as a symbol of honor, love, and achievement. Unlike caps and gowns, which symbolize institutional recognition, leis represent personal pride and communal support. This article explores the history, meanings, cultural roots, and evolving modern practices that make graduation leis an enduring tradition across diverse communities.
The Origins of Graduation Leis
The lei is deeply rooted in Polynesian culture, where it has long served as a token of affection, welcome, or respect. In Hawaii, leis are used for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and greetings, but graduations have become one of the most popular occasions. The tradition reflects values of ohana (family) and community.
- Ancient Roots: Hawaiians crafted leis from flowers, shells, feathers, and even bones, each material carrying spiritual significance.
- Cultural Transfer: As Hawaiian traditions spread globally, the lei became adapted into graduations in American schools and universities.
- Symbolic Expansion: Today, graduation leis represent the blending of indigenous culture with mainstream educational ceremonies.
As one cultural historian explained: “The lei is more than a necklace—it is an embrace made visible. During graduations, that embrace encircles not only the graduate but also their entire community.”
Symbolism Behind Graduation Leis
The giving of a lei during graduation is layered with meaning:
- Achievement: Recognition of years of study and perseverance.
- Love and Support: A tangible expression from family and friends.
- Cultural Continuity: A way for Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders to maintain traditions.
- Transition: Marking the passage from one stage of life to another.
A graduate once said: “The diploma is what I earned, but the leis are what remind me I wasn’t alone.”
Types of Graduation Leis
While traditional leis are made of flowers like plumeria, orchids, or tuberose, modern creativity has expanded the options dramatically. Today’s leis include:
- Floral Leis: Orchids, carnations, plumeria, or roses.
- Ti Leaf Leis: Symbolizing strength and protection.
- Money Leis: Crafted from folded bills shaped into flowers or chains.
- Candy Leis: Wrapped sweets strung together for younger graduates.
- Ribbon Leis: Durable keepsakes often made in school colors.
This diversity reflects how communities innovate while preserving the gesture’s essence.
Table 1: Common Graduation Lei Types and Their Meanings
| Type | Material | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| Floral Lei | Orchids, plumeria, carnations | Beauty, honor, love |
| Ti Leaf Lei | Ti leaves | Protection, good luck |
| Money Lei | Folded dollar bills | Prosperity, future success |
| Candy Lei | Chocolates, sweets | Joy, sweetness of achievement |
| Ribbon Lei | Satin or fabric ribbons | School pride, lasting memory |
Cultural Practices Surrounding Graduation Leis
In Hawaii, graduates are often adorned with so many leis that their entire upper body and face can be hidden under the floral arrangements. This abundance is intentional—it demonstrates how much love surrounds the graduate.
Beyond Hawaii, leis have become popular in California, Nevada, Utah, and other states with large Polynesian communities.
- Ceremonial Role: Family members line up to present leis after the graduate receives their diploma.
- Group Identity: Schools may incorporate leis into official ceremonies to honor Hawaiian or Pacific Islander traditions.
- Diasporic Pride: Communities abroad use leis to stay connected to cultural roots.
The Evolution of Modern Graduation Leis
Over time, leis have evolved from purely floral garlands into creative, personalized expressions. Families often spend weeks crafting unique leis that highlight the graduate’s personality.
- School Colors: Ribbons, fabrics, or flowers chosen to reflect institutional pride.
- Hobbies and Interests: Leis incorporating miniature sports gear, charms, or themed decorations.
- Hybrid Designs: Mixing flowers with money, candy, or photos.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Biodegradable materials or reusable fabrics for sustainability.
As one parent remarked: “Each lei we made was a story—one for love, one for laughter, and one for her future.”
Bullet Points: Reasons Families Choose Different Lei Styles
- Floral leis for tradition and fragrance.
- Money leis to provide financial help for future plans.
- Candy leis to add joy for younger graduates.
- Ribbon leis for keepsakes that last a lifetime.
- Hybrid leis to combine practicality with beauty.
Graduation Leis Beyond Hawaii
While the tradition is strongest in Hawaii, graduation leis have spread across the continental U.S. and into international schools. The gesture resonates universally because it embodies celebration through tangible beauty.
Examples:
- Mainland U.S.: Universities like UCLA and Stanford see students wearing leis proudly during commencement.
- Asia-Pacific: Filipino, Samoan, and Tongan families adopt the practice widely.
- Global Appeal: Non-Pacific Islander families increasingly embrace leis for their symbolism and aesthetic.
This diffusion shows how traditions travel and transform while retaining their heart.
Table 2: Regional Adaptations of Graduation Leis
| Region | Adaptation Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | Abundant floral leis | Traditional and culturally central |
| California | Money and ribbon leis | Strong Polynesian influence |
| Pacific Islands | Shell and feather leis | Reflect local resources |
| Mainland U.S. | Hybrid leis (candy + ribbon + flowers) | Trend among diverse families |
| International | Symbolic floral garlands | Inspired by Hawaiian practice |
The Emotional Impact of Leis
Graduation leis create an emotional bridge between academic success and cultural pride. They transform what could be a formal ceremony into a community festival.
A graduate reflected: “Walking across the stage, I felt like a warrior—diploma in hand, leis around my neck, my family’s love visible for all to see.”
The layers of leis symbolize the layers of support behind every accomplishment.
Practical Tips for Graduation Leis
For families preparing leis, here are practical guidelines:
- Plan Early: Popular flowers sell out during graduation season.
- Mix Styles: Combine floral and non-floral leis for variety.
- Consider Allergies: Choose hypoallergenic flowers or fabric leis if needed.
- Preserve Memories: Ribbon leis or dried flower leis last longer.
- Honor Tradition: Respect Hawaiian customs when incorporating cultural elements.
Sustainability and the Future of Graduation Leis
With environmental awareness growing, many families seek sustainable ways to celebrate. This includes:
- Using biodegradable flowers and leaves.
- Choosing ribbon leis that last for years.
- Recycling materials like paper or fabric for DIY designs.
Graduation leis continue to evolve, but their essence—love, pride, and cultural continuity—remains timeless.
Conclusion
Graduation leis are more than decorations. They are cultural symbols, personal gifts, and emotional statements that make academic milestones deeply memorable. Rooted in Hawaiian and Polynesian tradition, they now stretch across the globe as an inclusive, joyful practice. Whether made from flowers, money, candy, or ribbons, leis turn ceremonies into vibrant celebrations. Their continued relevance proves that even in modern times, traditions grounded in community and love remain essential.
As one Hawaiian elder said: “A lei is a circle. When you place it on a graduate, you close the circle of their journey and open the next.”
FAQs on Graduation Leis
Q1. What do graduation leis symbolize?
They symbolize love, respect, achievement, and community support during academic milestones.
Q2. Are leis only used in Hawaii for graduations?
No. While originating in Hawaii, graduation leis are now widely embraced across the mainland U.S. and internationally.
Q3. What are the most common materials for graduation leis?
Orchids, plumeria, ti leaves, ribbons, candy, and folded money are among the most popular.
Q4. Can leis be kept after graduation?
Yes. Ribbon and fabric leis last indefinitely, while floral leis can be dried as keepsakes.
Q5. How many leis are typically given to a graduate?
There is no limit—some graduates wear dozens, symbolizing the depth of community support.