In the room
The experience
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. 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.
Insider tip
Walk in knowing
The Ho'olaule'a opening day on Sunday at Mō'heau Bandstand is free, outdoor, and arguably more powerful than the indoor competition.
Why it fits
Why it is in the atlas
Indigenous music festival of global standing, run by and for Native Hawaiians.
Plan the trip
When to go, hours, getting there
Best time to go
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.
Hours
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).
Getting there
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.
Straight from the source
Official site and tickets
Dates, line-ups and tickets come from the organiser. Opens merriemonarch.com in a new tab.
FAQ
Questions people ask
Where is Merrie Monarch Festival?
Merrie Monarch Festival is in Hilo, Hawai'i, United States. Coordinates: 19.7016, -155.0707.
What kind of music is at Merrie Monarch Festival?
Merrie Monarch Festival programmes Hula Kahiko, Hula 'Auana, Mele, Ipu and Pahu. Most prestigious hula competition in the world. Annual since 1964 the week after Easter, in honour of King David Kalākaua. Hālau hula from Hawai'i, the US mainland, Japan and Aotearoa compete over four nights in Hilo.
When is the best time to visit Merrie Monarch Festival?
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.
How do I get to Merrie Monarch Festival?
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.
Why is Merrie Monarch Festival in the Sonic Paths atlas?
Indigenous music festival of global standing, run by and for Native Hawaiians.
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Stay
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