Lodge Le Progres de l’Oceanie had the distinct privilege of participating in a truly memorable occasion: the celebration of King David Kalākaua’s 189th birthday, held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, on the historic grounds of ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. It was an afternoon that honored the legacy of the Merrie Monarch with a beautiful blend of history, culture, and community spirit.
A Royal Throwback to the 1886 Jubilee
This year’s celebration took inspiration from one of the most significant events of King Kalākaua’s reign—his 1886 Birthday Jubilee. The Palace grounds were adorned in the glorious styles and vibrant colors reminiscent of that grand, two-week celebration, which marked the King’s 50th birthday and was instrumental in the revitalization of Hawaiian culture, particularly the public performance of hula.
Guests were transported back to the Monarchy era with authentic bunting and décor, echoing the descriptions of the Palace’s lavish decoration during the Jubilee. It was a tangible connection to the past, reminding all attendees of the King’s appreciation for grandeur and the preservation of his culture.
A Day of Music, Tribute, and History
The event was rich with features that celebrated the King’s contributions:
Live Entertainment: The air was filled with music courtesy of the legendary Royal Hawaiian Band, which King Kalākaua himself reorganized and encouraged. Their performance brought a lively, authentic sound that perfectly complemented the festive atmosphere.
Special Birthday Tributes: Dignitaries and community members offered heartfelt tributes, acknowledging the King’s foresight, his travels, his commitment to technology, and his enduring spirit that earned him the title “Merrie Monarch.”
Access for Kāmaʻāina: In a gesture of community aloha, residents of Hawaiʻi (Kāmaʻāina) were offered free audio tours of ʻIolani Palace. This special opportunity allowed locals to walk the magnificent halls and better understand the life and times of the only official royal residence in the United States.
Honoring a Venerable Brother and Master
For Lodge Le Progres de l’Oceanie, this celebration holds a particularly profound meaning. King David Kalākaua was not only a patron of the arts and a leader of his people, but he was also a devoted Freemason. He ascended to the position of Master of our Lodge in 1876 and was an active member throughout his reign.
The King’s strong connection to Freemasonry is also deeply intertwined with ʻIolani Palace itself. He charged his brethren with orchestrating the cornerstone laying ceremony for the new Palace in 1879. Seeing the Palace dressed in the colors of his Jubilee and celebrating his birth is a powerful and personal reminder of the lasting impact our Brother had on the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi.
The delegation from Lodge Le Progres de l’Oceanie attended in a show of loyalty and respect, continuing a long-held tradition of honoring one of our most distinguished members on his birthday.
The brethren were especially pleased to meet and exchange greetings with Brother Quentin Kūhiō Kawānanakoa, a distinguished member of the House of Kawānanakoa, representing the continuity of Hawaiʻi’s royal heritage and its connection to Freemasonry.
The 189th birthday celebration for King Kalākaua was a resounding success, capturing the spirit of his “Silver Jubilee” and reinforcing the connection between his legacy, ʻIolani Palace, and the people of Hawaiʻi.
Hauʻoli Lā Hānau e King Kalākaua!
