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Night Marchers
The ghosts of ancient Hawaiian warriors march on sacred nights. Torches blaze, drums pound, and chanting fills the air. If you see them, lie face down and don't look—or you will die unless an ancestor claims you.
Ancient - Present
Hawaii
3000+ witnesses
The Night Marchers (Huaka’i Pō) are ghostly warriors from Hawaiian folklore who march on certain nights.
The Legend
According to Hawaiian tradition:
Night Marchers:
- Are spirits of ancient warriors
- March on sacred nights
- Follow ancient paths to sacred sites
- Carry torches and weapons
- Will kill mortals who see them
When They Appear
The marchers appear:
- On nights of Kāne, Kū, Lono
- Certain full moons
- Hawaiian holy nights
- Between midnight and dawn
- Along ancient paths
Warning Signs
You know they’re coming:
- Sound of drums
- Conch shell blowing
- Flickering torches
- Chanting voices
- Dogs howling and hiding
Survival Rules
If you encounter them:
- Lie face down
- Remove all clothing
- Don’t look at them
- Don’t run
- An ancestor spirit may claim you
The Claiming
You may survive if:
- An ancestor is among them
- They recognize you
- Shout “Nā ‘aumākua” (ancestors)
- Show respect
- Someone claims you as family
Modern Encounters
Still reported:
- Near ancient heiau (temples)
- On certain beaches
- Along old trails
- By locals and tourists
- Taken very seriously
Sources
- Hawaiian oral tradition