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The start of a new year is a time to celebrate, and it's also the ideal opportunity to look back on your life and determine which changes will make it better going forward. One way to highlight the celebration and set the stage for things to come is to release monarch butterflies into the wild. They have significant meaning in many cultures throughout the world. This guide will explain their importance and how releasing them during your new year’s event will make it a memorable occasion.

What Do Monarch Butterflies Symbolize?

Butterflies go through four stages of metamorphosis—egg, larva, pupa, and adult—during their life. This process is often used to symbolize transformation and highlight how change can make life more beautiful. The endurance a caterpillar must have to emerge from the pupa, or chrysalis, stage as a winged adult butterfly is also a strong symbol for overcoming adversity and having hope. 

How to Release Them at New Year's

monarch butterflies

The temperate weather in Hawaii allows monarch butterflies to safely emerge from a chrysalis any time of the year. This makes a chrysalis box a great gift for a child interested in learning more about the metamorphosis process. Generally, the butterfly will be ready for release three to five days later, which will line up perfectly with your new year’s event.

Before the release, ensure the butterflies’ wings are fully dry, so they can safely fly away. Transport them in the chrysalis boxes to your chosen destination. When it’s time to take them out, simply open the box for release. Everyone should then whisper their wish for the new year to the butterfly and set it free to have it granted.


Paradise Monarchs offers live monarch butterfly chrysalis boxes to individuals and families in Ewa Beach, HI, and all of Oahu. In addition to spreading joy, your purchase will help conserve the wild monarch butterfly population throughout the state. Visit their website to place an order today or call (808) 341-1888 with questions.

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