02 · GALLERY
Five frames.
Merrie Monarch has run every year since 1964 the week after Easter in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai'i. The festival was named for King David Kalākaua, who restored hula after missionary suppression in the late 19th century, and is the most-prestigious hula competition in the world. Hālau hula (schools) from across Hawai'i, the US mainland, Japan and Aotearoa compete over four nights at the Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. Use Native Hawaiian, Kanaka Maoli, hula kahiko, hula 'auana, hālau, mele. The Ho'olaule'a opening day on Sunday at Mō'heau Bandstand on Hilo Bay is free and showcases hula in its proper outdoor setting; arguably more powerful than the indoor competition.
The Ho'olaule'a opening day on Sunday at Mō'heau Bandstand is free, outdoor, and arguably more powerful than the indoor competition.
Indigenous music festival of global standing, run by and for Native Hawaiians.
Annual, week after Easter (typically late March or April). Wednesday Royal Court parade, Thursday Miss Aloha Hula, Friday and Saturday group competitions. Hilo's wet climate is the Big Island's east-side counterpoint to Kona.
Annual one-week festival. Ho'olaule'a opening on Sunday at Mō'heau Bandstand 09:00 to 17:00 (free). Competition nights at Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium 18:00 onwards (ticketed, sells out a year ahead).
Fly Hilo (ITO) direct from Honolulu (45 minutes) or Maui. Hilo town accommodation sells out 12 months ahead for festival week. From the airport, 10 minutes by taxi to downtown.