7 Reasons to Get Out of the House

06|07

JUNE 2 TRY OUT FOR THE IRONMAN
It makes us tired just thinking about it, but officials for the Ford Ironman 70.3 Hawai‘i are expecting 1,000 athletes in its 70.3-mile Ironman qualifying race. The prize? Seventy-nine lucky swimming, running and biking enthusiasts will be able to compete in the full Ironman in October. www.honuhalfironman.com.

photo: Rae Huo

JUNE 4 LEARN TO LEI
Save a few bucks during graduation season by making your own lei. There are free classes at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center (922-2299), or learn to make lifelike yarn and ribbon lei at FloraDec, www.floradec.com.

photo: 2007 Grand Sumo Tournament

JUNE 9-10 CARBO LOAD
For the first time in 10 years, Honolulu plays host to Japan’s Grand Sumo Tournament. More than 40 wrestlers, including Japanese favorite Takamisakari, will compete in the two-day tournament held at the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena.

photo: the King Kamehameha celebration commission

JUNE 11 HAIL THE KING
Although the state officially observes King Kamehameha Day on Monday, June 11, keep an eye out for pa‘u riders, marching bands and hula halau on Kalakaua Avenue on Saturday, June 9, for the 91st Annual King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade.

JUNE 17 GOLF WITH DAD
A new set of clubs, a card in the mail, a sizzling T-bone steak on the grill—however your family says “Happy Father’s Day,” be sure to say it today.

photo: Mo‘ili‘ili Hongwanji

JUNE 21 SUMMER SOLSTICE
It’s the longest day of the year, make something of it. Tour the Bishop Museum’s new “Speed” exhibit, shop for fresh produce at the Kailua Thursday Night Farmers’ Market at Kailua Town Center, or go for a picnic at the local beach park. It’s summertime—enjoy it.

JUNE THROUGH AUGUST PAY YOUR RESPECTS
June marks the beginning of the obon season, a time in Japanese culture to honor ancestors. Hongwanji across the state will hold bon dances through August, featuring traditional dance and food.