Aloha Everyone,
Thank you for those of you who texted us cheerful fireworks.
Fireworks are ingrained as “must-have” in Hawaii on New Year’s Eve. Aerial fireworks are illegal on the island of Oahu (where Honolulu is located) but whether you are a resident or temporary visitor, you can purchase permits for fireworks - small ones ;-) firecrackers and other related noisemakers.
J.J. and I recall driving on H-1 Freeway to the airport on New Year’s Day. Streets were covered with red colored paper which contained firecrackers and the air was thick with lingering smoke and smell.
This Hawaiian tradition of fireworks traces back to China where fireworks was invented. Extremely loud sounds from fireworks reminds one of movie scenes from combat zones. However, the louder the sound, the more effective it is to ward off evil spirits and many feel that fireworks in New Year’s Eve 2021 is justified and even necessary.
Aloha -- Cathi