1. In 1850, the first batch of Chinese laborers arrived in Hawaii to work in the sugarcane plantations. This marked the beginning of a significant wave of Chinese immigration to Hawaii, which had a lasting impact on the state's culture and demographics.

2. On August 31, 1959, Hawaii officially became the 50th state of the United States. The event was marked by celebrations across the islands, including a grand statehood parade in Honolulu.

3. In 1992, Hurricane Iniki struck Hawaii, causing widespread devastation and leaving thousands homeless. The storm was one of the strongest ever to hit Hawaii, with winds reaching up to 145 miles per hour.

4. On August 31, 2014, a lava flow from the Kilauea volcano on the island of Hawaii began to threaten nearby communities. The flow eventually destroyed several homes and forced residents to evacuate, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by volcanic activity in the state.

5. In 2017, Hawaii's governor signed a bill declaring August 31 to be "Aloha Day" in the state, a day to celebrate the spirit of aloha and promote unity and kindness. The holiday is intended to encourage Hawaiians to embrace the values of love, compassion, and respect that are deeply ingrained in the state's cultural heritage.