Merrie Monarch Festival
Annual festival in Hilo, Hawaii since 1964
About
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long cultural festival that takes place annually in Hilo, Hawaii during the week after Easter. It honors King David Kalākaua, who was called the "Merrie Monarch" for his patronage of the arts and is credited with restoring many Hawaiian cultural traditions during his reign, including hula. Many hālau hula (schools), including some from the U.S. mainland and some international performers, attend the festival each year to participate in exhibitions and competitions. The festival has received worldwide attention and is considered the most prestigious of all hula contests.
Merrie Monarch week begins Easter Sunday every year. The competitive hula events end the week, and occur on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday; They are televised and live-streamed for free online by Hawaii News Now (formerly KHII-TV, KFVE/K5).
Nearby
More to see within walking distance
Hoʻolulu Park
Park and Recreation Center
Kalākaua Park
Town square in Hilo, Hawaii
1.4 mi away
S. Hata Building
Historic Place in Hawaii County, Hawaii, United States
1.1 mi away
Hilo Masonic Lodge Hall–Bishop Trust Building
Historic Place in Hawaii County, Hawaii
1.4 mi away
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Museum in Hilo, Hawaii, United States
1.3 mi away
Prince Kuhio Plaza
Shopping mall in Hilo, Hawaii
1.6 mi awayPlaces to eat nearby
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Tickets & tours
Tickets and tours for Merrie Monarch Festival
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