HONOLULU — Visitors and residents have been patiently waiting for the time when one of Oahu’s most treasured traditions continues. Wait no more. A rainbow of floral floats, elegant pā‘ū riders, the Aloha Festivals court, stately Royal Hawaiian Band, school marching bands and more will once again close down Kalakaua Avenue for the Aloha Festivals’ 74th Annual Floral Parade on Sept. 24.

But first, Aloha Festivals invites organizations and groups to apply to participate in the parade through Aug. 19; there is no fee required. Entrants may include floats, specialty cars, marching units, parade bands and equestrian units. The route will begin at Ala Moana Park and make its way down Kalakaua Avenue to Queen Kapiolani Park.

“From civic clubs, to school groups, to pā‘ū riders and bands, the floral parade showcases the unity of the aloha spirit on our island,” said Co-Chair of Aloha Festivals Helene “Sam” Shenkus, in a release. “We want the floral parade to reflect the diversity and beauty of our communities, and so we invite all to apply to participate in the parade.”

This year’s Aloha Festivals’ theme is “Aloha Aina, Love of the Land.”

Aloha Festivals explains the meaning as, “The foundation of Aloha Aina is a reverence for the aina (land) as a venerated ancestor. Subsequently, Aloha Festivals recognizes the collective kuleana (responsibility) all have to care for the land from whom all receive nourishment.” All events will highlight this message and goal.

The month-long Aloha Festivals celebration begins with the Royal Court Investiture and Opening Ceremony on Sept. 10, and continues with the 68th Annual Waikiki Hoolaulea on Sept. 17. One of the longest running parades in the State of Hawaii, the Aloha Festivals Floral Parade concludes the festivities on Sept. 24.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii.