Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaii Every year on Memorial Day, thousands of people would gather at Ala Moana Beach Park to participate in the lantern floating ceremony -- a Japanese Buddhist tradition to remember loved ones. Because of the pandemic, last year’s and this year’s lantern floating will look a bit different to follow social distancing requirements. Credit Shinnyo-en Hawaii Rather than sending off thousands of small, individually purchased water lanterns, there will be a singular 12-foot tall lantern decorated at Shinnyo-en Hawaiʻi. The lantern will feature the silhouette of a Kukui tree, which symbolizes light, hope and renewal.