Clifford Naeʻole will serve as this year’s grand marshall for the 2025 Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hōʻolauleʻa on June 21 at the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center in Kahului. Courtesy photo

Cultural practitioner and advisor Clifford Naeʻole has been named the grand marshal of 2025 Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hōʻolauleʻa on June 21.

The theme of the parade this year is “E Ho’omau,” a call to persevere and perpetuate the knowledge, values, and cultural identity of the people. In this spirit, the festival committee will be honoring the legacy of Mary Kawena Pukui, a pillar of Hawaiian scholarship, language and ʻike kupuna.

“Uncle Clifford’s life’s work has exemplified the very essence of this theme,” coordinator Daryl Fujiwara said. “His tireless efforts to uplift Hawaiian culture, language and protocol, especially through his role as a cultural advisor and advocate, resonate deeply with the manaʻo of Kawena Pukui. His presence as grand marshal is a powerful and inspiring tribute to her legacy and a meaningful reminder to our lāhui of the importance of carrying these traditions forward.”

The festivities will begin with the traditional Pāʻū Parade down Ka’ahumanu Avenue, featuring the pageantry of pāʻū riders representing each island, hālau hula, marching bands and community groups celebrating Hawaiian culture and aliʻi legacy.

Commentary stations will be posted along Ka’ahumanu Avenue at Mahalani Street; Papa Avenue; Wakea Avenue and two at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center.

The celebration will continue with a Hōʻolauleʻa at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center, filled with live music, hula, local artisans, educational exhibits and cultural demonstrations for the whole ‘ohana.

The Hōʻolauleʻa runs until 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

Ka’ahumanu Avenue from Lunaliho Street to Kahului Beach Road will be closed during the parade on June 21.

For more, go to festivalsofaloha.org or follow us on Instagram.com/kamehamehadaymaui and Facebook.com/nkcpph.