Fodor's Expert Review Merrie Monarch Festival

Hilo Cultural Festivals Fodor's Choice

The mother of all Hawaii festivals, the world-class Merrie Monarch in Hilo celebrates all things hula for one fantastic week every April with competitions, activities, a parade, and more. The esteemed event honors the legacy of King David Kalakaua (1836–1891), the man responsible for reviving fading Hawaiian cultural traditions including hula. The three-day hula competition is staged at the Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium during the first week following Easter Sunday. Hula halau (studios) worldwide come to perform both kahiko (ancient) and auana (modern) dance styles, solo and in groups. Tickets are not expensive, but they are hard to get. You should reserve accommodations and rental cars up to a year in advance. Ticket requests must be mailed and postmarked after December 1 of the preceding year.

Cultural Festivals Fodor's Choice

Quick Facts

350 Kalanikoa St.
Hilo, Hawaii  96720, USA

808-935–9168

www.merriemonarch.com

What’s Nearby