HONOLULU (KHON2) -- National Aunt and Uncle Day is celebrated on July 26 each year. It’s a special day to honor and appreciate the aunts and uncles in our lives. These members of our ohana, hanai and community often play important roles and offer support, love and guidance. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You National Aunt and Uncle Day is a time to recognize and thank your aunts and uncles for all they do. It’s a great opportunity to show them how much they mean to you. This can be done by spending time with them, giving them a call or even writing them a heartfelt letter. Auntie and Uncle culture in Hawaiʻi In Hawaiʻi, the terms "Auntie" and "Uncle" have a special meaning that goes beyond just family. Here’s why these terms are so significant in Hawaiʻi's modern culture: Respect and endearment: In Hawaiʻi, "Auntie" and "Uncle" are used as terms of respect and affection for elders, even if they are not related by blood. It's a way of showing respect to older members of the community. Community ties: Hawaiʻi has a strong sense of community, often referred to as the “aloha spirit”. Calling someone Auntie or Uncle fosters a sense of family and connectedness within the community. Guidance and wisdom: Aunties and Uncles in Hawaiʻi are seen as sources of wisdom and guidance. They help teach the younger generations about traditions, values and the importance of caring for one another. Support system: Just like biological aunts and uncles, these honorary Aunties and Uncles play crucial roles in supporting and nurturing the children and young people in their communities. Celebrating National Aunt and Uncle Day in Hawaiʻi Here are some ways you can celebrate National Aunt and Uncle Day, especially with a Hawaiian touch: Spend quality time: Plan a day out with your Auntie or Uncle. This could be a picnic at the beach, a hike, or a family gathering with local foods and music. Share a meal: In Hawaiʻi, food is a big part of the culture. Cook or share a meal with your Auntie or Uncle. You can prepare traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau, poi, or poke. Cultural activities: Engage in cultural activities such as hula dancing, lei making, or learning about Hawaiian history and legends. This can be a fun way to bond and appreciate the rich Hawaiian culture together. Express gratitude: Simply expressing your gratitude can mean a lot. Write a thank-you note or share a heartfelt message about how much they mean to you. National Aunt and Uncle Day is a wonderful time to celebrate and honor the special people in our lives who provide love, support, and guidance. In Hawaiʻi, Aunties and Uncles hold a unique and respected place in the community, making this day even more meaningful. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Whether through spending time, sharing a meal, or expressing gratitude, there are many ways to show appreciation for these important family members.