Event· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii
Merrie Monarch Festival (April)
19° 42.8′ N · 155° 4.4′ W · approximate
Hawaii's most prestigious hula competition and a week-long celebration of King David Kalakaua, the 'Merrie Monarch' - free performances, a Hawaiian arts fair and a grand parade through Hilo, then three nights of competition.
Practical
Held at the Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium, Hoolulu Park, Hilo (coordinate approximate). Runs Easter Sunday to the following Saturday: Miss Aloha Hula Thursday, group kahiko Friday, group auana Saturday; parade Saturday morning. 2027 dates: March 28 to April 3, 2027. Competition tickets are by mail only - for 2027, request forms accepted starting Monday, November 16, 2026 (postmarks before that are returned), maximum two tickets per person, US-dollar cashier's check or money order plus a stamped #10 return envelope. Refunds are issued after tickets sell out; the festival does not sell ticket blocks to tour groups. Founded 1964.
Best for
The cultural event of the year in Hilo
Season
Easter week (late March or April)
Nearby
- S. Tokunaga Store (Fishing and Dive Supply)0.2 NM away
- Big Island Candies0.3 NM away
- Wailoa River State Recreation Area0.3 NM away
- Island Naturals Market (Hilo)0.4 NM away
- Propane Refills (Hilo and Puna)0.4 NM away
- Visiting-Yacht Berthing and Anchoring in Hilo (DOBOR Office)0.4 NM away
- Cafe 1000.5 NM away
- Ken's House of Pancakes0.5 NM away