LIHUE — Madeline Guyett, an award-winning lei maker, was still deciding last week what she plans to enter in the Kauai Museum’s May Day Lei Contest on Monday. “I made these papale lei using materials I found on the North
LIHUE — Madeline Guyett, an award-winning lei maker, was still deciding last week what she plans to enter in the Kauai Museum’s May Day Lei Contest on Monday.
“I made these papale lei using materials I found on the North Shore,” Guyett said. “The collectors (of material) are important because they need to gather quality items. We’ll just have to wait and see.”
Uli‘i Castor of the Kauai Museum said she, too, was unsure what kind of lei she will enter into the annual contest, which was started by Irmalee Pomroy 37 years ago.
“I have to wait to see what speaks to me,” said Castor, who created her award-winning lei from 2016 from koa pods. “Nothing has jumped out yet.”
This year’s contest honors Irmalee and Walter Pomroy for their contributions to the Kauai Museum as well as their skill in creating lei.
The Kauai Museum is partnering with the Kauai Marriott Resort in hosting the lei viewing at the Kauai Marriott Puna Court from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday.
“We had to do this,” said Chucky Boy Chock, Kauai Museum director. “Our courtyard is being worked on and there is the liability of having people in the construction area. The Puna Court is real easy to find — just turn right as you get off the escalator.”
The Kauai Museum May Day Lei Contest showcases lei makers of Kauai and Niihau and is one of the museum’s signature events.
“Paul Toner and his Kauai Marriott ohana was so gracious to accept us with open arms and offer to partner with us in celebrating May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii Nei,” he said.
Many of the lei will be available for sale through a silent auction, and people can make a lei for a donation. Crafts, entertainment and food will be available.
