Week long event April 9-15, 2023, Hilo-Big Island
The Merrie Monarch Festival was originally created by King Kalākaua to revitalize the Hawaiian people after a tsunami devastated the islands in 1963. This festival was created to gather the best hula dancers from all the islands, showcase Hawaiian artistry, and create a performance to celebrate Hawai’i and its people. King Kalākaua worked to maintain the teachings of the kūpuna, Hawaiian traditions, Olelo Hawaii (language), hula (dance), oli (chant) and the arts. The Merrie Monarch Festival is the most prestigious hula competition in the world, often referred to as the “Olympics of Hula” is a week’s long festival of dance! There is also a Hawaiian Arts and Crafts Fair and Royal Parade everyone looks forward to attending in Hilo.
Merrie Monarch 60th Anniversary Royal Coronation Ball
Sunday, April 9, 2023 at 4:30pm
Nani Mau Gardens in Hilo (421 Makalika Street)
Guests are requested to dress with Hawaiian Formals, Holuku-Dress, train for the ladies, and ties for the gentleman.
Hawaiian Arts and Crafts Fair
Wednesday, April 12 thru Friday 9-5pm thru Saturday, April 15th from 9-4pm
Chinen Civic Auditorium & Butler Buildings in Hilo. Free Admission
Hula Performances:
Hōʻike Performances:
Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 6pm
Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium
Miss Aloha Hula
Thursday, April 13th, 2023 at 6:00pm
Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium
Individual competition for the title of Miss Aloha Hula with contestants performing hula kahiko, hula ʻauana and oli (chant)
Hula Kahiko
Friday, April 14, 2023 at 6pm
Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium
Hālau hula perform ancient style dances.
Hula ʻAuana & Awards
Saturday, April 15, 2023 at 6pm
Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium
Hālau hula perform modern style dances, followed by an awards presentation for all group winners.
Online streaming at: hawaiinewsnow.com/merriemonarch/
60th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival Royal Parade
Saturday, April 15, 2023 at 10:30am through downtown Hilo, Hawaii
