Keli'iponi Hale, the Coronation Pavilion, stands on the grounds of ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu. Built for the 1883 coronation of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiʻolani, it is a white pavilion set among lawns and greenery. You can admire its architecture from outside, walk the palace grounds and look for local birdlife. The pavilion has also been used for state inaugurations and as a setting for performances by the Royal Hawaiian Band. Entry inside may be restricted, so plan to view it from the grounds.
Built for the 1883 coronation
Keli'iponi Hale was erected in 1883 for the coronation of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiʻolani. At the ceremony, Kalākaua placed the crown on his own head because no other person of suitable rank was there to perform the duty.
The pavilion originally stood in front of ʻIolani Palace, near the King Street steps. A bridge connected it to the palace’s first-floor veranda. It was later moved to its current position on the palace grounds.
A bandstand on the palace grounds
After its move, the pavilion was used as a bandstand. The Royal Hawaiian Band has performed nearby, and the grounds have also hosted inaugurations of Hawaiʻi’s governors. These events give the pavilion a continuing ceremonial and musical role beyond its connection to the 1883 coronation.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you go inside Keli'iponi Hale?
Entry may be restricted. You can admire the pavilion from the palace grounds.
When was the Coronation Pavilion built?
It was built in 1883 for the coronation of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiʻolani.
Where is Keli'iponi Hale?
It is on the grounds of ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu, Oʻahu.
What happens near the pavilion today?
The Royal Hawaiian Band has performed nearby, and the pavilion grounds have been used for government inaugurations.
