2016 Peace Day events around the Islands

In 2007, Hawaii became the first state to recognize Peace Day. Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on September 21. The United Nations General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

Here are some of the 2016 Peace Day events in Hawaii.

We recommend you verify the latest information prior to the event using the “More” links at the end of each listing.

Hawaii Island Peace Day Events

Peace Movie Night: “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”
September 21 (Wednesday)  |  7 p.m.
Honoka‘a People’s Theatre
Special screening of the seventh installment in the STAR WARS film series, starring Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, and Max von Sydow. Produced by Lucasfilm Ltd. and Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions and distributed worldwide by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
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10th Annual Parade & Festival for the United Nations International Day of Peace
September 24 (Saturday)  |  4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Mamane Street, Honoka’a
A one-of-a-kind Parade and Festival demonstrating unity in support of peace, compassion and awareness of interdependence.
4 p.m.: Peace Day Parade! Mamane Street will close for the “moving stage” of marching bands, taiko drummers, hula, bon dancers, cirque performers and multicultural music and entertainment.
5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.: Peace Day Festival. Admission is free and all are welcome.
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A Day of Mindfulness with Dr. Gregory Pai, PhD
October 1 (Saturday)  |  9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
“The Path of Mindfulness: From Health and Wellness to freedom from Suffering.” Experience guided sitting and walking meditation, a Dharma discussion with Q&A and a mindful, silent meal (bring lunch and a cushion). Dr. Pai has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. Free.
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More Hawaii Island events plus poster contest info »

Kauai Peace Day Events

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Peace Day Candlelight Vigil
September 21 (Wednesday)  |  7:00 p.m.
Lihue Hongwanji, 3-3530 Kuhio Highway
Meet in front of the temple for candle lighting, music and a moment of silence.
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Maui Island Peace Day Events

Seasons for Peace
September 24 (Saturday)  |  12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Queen Kaahumanu Center, Kahului
In celebration of the International Day of Peace, join Maui Seasons for Peace for activities, entertainment and programs that encourage building peaceful communities.
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Oahu Peace Day Events

black-and-white drawing of an origami craneblack-and-white drawing of an origami crane

Peace Day Interfaith Celebration: Inspiring Peace
September 16 (Friday)  |  6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, Honolulu
6th Annual Peace Day Interfaith Celebration sponsored by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and seven cosponsors. The service will feature speakers and musical performers from a variety of religious and spiritual traditions, including ukulele virtuoso Gordon Mark.
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“Why World Peace is Possible” with Paul Chappell
September 21 (Wednesday)  |  7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
UH Manoa, Art Auditorium
Paul Chappell is Director of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, Santa Barbara, CA. Free.
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Peace Day Celebration at UH CTAHR Pearl City Urban Garden Center
September 24 (Saturday)  |  9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
955 Kamehameha Highway, Pearl City, Hawai’i 96782
Explore the gardens, educational exhibits, forums, workshops, entertainment, dance, music, food and fun for all ages. FREE entry. Honoring distinguished peacemakers Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland for her spirited commitment in support of programs against domestic violence & child abuse and JoAnn & Clifford Hirayasu for their dedicated 45 years of service as volunteers in the HD Emergency Management Reserve Corp.
Talks & Forums
10:00-10:45 a.m.: “Mindfulness in Schools” Forum
11:00-11:45 a.m.: “Finding Light in Darkness” with Paul Chappell
12:15-12:30 p.m.: “Waging Peace” with Paul Chappell
Paul Chappell is Director of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, Santa Barbara, CA.
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Workshop: “Peace Leadership in Difficult Times” with Paul Chappell
September 25 (Sunday)  |  10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
UH College of Education Collaboration Ctr., Wist Hall 134
Paul Chappell is Director of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, Santa Barbara, CA.
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