Honolulu to host 2027 Rotary International Convention

HONOLULU (Feb. 18, 2021) — Almost one year after canceling its international convention in Honolulu due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Rotary announced it will hold its annual gathering in Honolulu for the membership service organization’s 118th convention on June 5-9, 2027.

Held in a different city around the world each year, Rotary conventions bring members from all continents and cultures together to learn from each other and various experts, and to share ideas for delivering long-term solutions to the world’s most persistent humanitarian issues. Approximately 20,000 Rotary members from 170 countries were expected to attend the event in Honolulu in 2020, which was estimated to bring $35-40 million into the local economy.

“After canceling our convention in 2020 due to COVID-19, we are grateful to the citizens of Honolulu for welcoming us again in 2027,” said Rotary International President Holger Knaack. “As a global organization that values bringing people together, we look forward to sharing and celebrating our friendships, cultures and service in the spirit of Aloha.”

“Beyond the incredible economic impact this convention will have, the people of Hawai’i will be inspired by the humanitarian causes of Rotary International, to include: promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies and protecting the environment,” said John De Fries, President and CEO, Hawaii Tourism Authority. “As a global community, Rotary members embody the values we cherish here, in Hawai’i.”

Organized by Rotary International in conjunction with the Honolulu Host Organizing Committee of local Rotary members, the convention will provide attendees with ample opportunities to experience Oahu’s many attractions.

The Rotary Club of Honolulu, chartered in 1915, is Rotary’s first club in Honolulu. Today, there are more than 1,470 Rotary members who belong to over 45 clubs across Hawai’i taking action on important local issues including drowning prevention, creating green space in Waikiki and helping homeless people receive medical care.

About Rotary

Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members of more than 36,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work improves lives at both the local and international levels, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. For more information, visit Rotary.org.

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Contact: Chanele Williams, +1 847-866-3466, chanele.williams@rotary.org