Time Zones

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST)

Introduction

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST) is the time zone used in the state of Hawaii and the westernmost part of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska. It is 10 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-10:00). This time zone is observed throughout the year without any changes for daylight saving time.

Time Zone History

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time was established to provide a uniform time reference for Hawaii and the Aleutian Islands. Historically, Hawaii used UTC-10:30 until 1947, when a new territorial law moved Hawaiian Standard Time 30 minutes ahead to UTC-10:00. The Aleutian Islands, on the other hand, observe Hawaii-Aleutian Daylight Time (HADT, UTC-09:00) during daylight saving time, while Hawaii remains on standard time. Hawaii has not observed daylight saving time since September 1945.

Geographical Coverage

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time is observed in the entire state of Hawaii and the portion of Alaska's Aleutian Islands west of 169° 30′ W longitude. The time zone is based on the mean solar time of the 150th meridian west of the Greenwich Observatory. French Polynesia and the Cook Islands also use UTC-10:00 for their major cities, but they are not considered part of the Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone.

Daylight Saving Time (DST)

Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time. However, the Aleutian Islands in Alaska do observe daylight saving time, switching to Hawaii-Aleutian Daylight Time (HADT, UTC-09:00) during the summer months. This practice helps make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer.

Major Cities

The major cities within the Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time zone offer a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions:

  • Honolulu: The capital of Hawaii, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
  • Hilo: A city on the Big Island of Hawaii, famous for its lush landscapes and proximity to Volcanoes National Park.
  • Kailua-Kona: A coastal town on the Big Island, known for its coffee farms and historic landmarks.
  • Adak: A town in the Aleutian Islands, known for its remote location and military history.

Local Culture and Traditions

The Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time region boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by Polynesian traditions and local customs. The people of Hawaii are known for their hospitality, traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional practices, such as hula dancing, lei making, and luaus, are deeply ingrained in the daily lives of the Hawaiian people. The Aleutian Islands, on the other hand, have a unique culture influenced by the indigenous Aleut people and their traditions.

Local Events and Holidays

The Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time region celebrates a variety of significant events and holidays that reflect its history and cultural diversity:

  • King Kamehameha Day (June 11th): A public holiday in Hawaii celebrating the first king of the Hawaiian Islands.
  • Aloha Festivals: A series of cultural events held annually in Hawaii, celebrating Hawaiian music, dance, and traditions.
  • Hawaii Statehood Day (August 21st): Commemorates Hawaii's admission to the United States as the 50th state.
  • Cultural Festivals: Various festivals throughout the year that celebrate the region's heritage and traditions.

Other Names

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time is commonly abbreviated as HAST. It is also referred to as Hawaii Standard Time (HST) and Hawaii-Aleutian Time.

Interesting Facts

  • The Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone is one of the few time zones in the United States that does not observe daylight saving time.
  • The Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the reference point for GMT and is marked by a brass strip in the courtyard.
  • The Aleutian Islands are known for their unique wildlife, including numerous bird species and marine life.
  • The region's remote location and pristine environment make it a popular destination for eco-tourism and scientific research.