As the language of the heart, hula dancing is the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people. So said King David Kalākaua during his reign over the Hawaiian kingdom from 1874-1891. The annual Merrie Monarch Festival, named in his honor as a royal patron of the arts, celebrates that sentiment and is the embodiment of the spirit of the Hawaiian people. Held every spring in Hilo, this week-long festival is the foremost celebration of Hawaiian culture with music, hula performances, cultural demonstrations, and a 3-day premier hula competition.
- When: April 5-11, 2026
- Where: Hilo, HI
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Merrie Monarch Festival?
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture held in Hilo each spring. While it’s best known for its world‑class hula competitions, the festival also honors traditional Hawaiian arts, storytelling, music, and history, showcasing the deep cultural roots of the islands.
What happens during the Merrie Monarch Festival?
Festivities begin on Sunday with a ceremonial chant and Ho‘olaule‘a celebration, followed by daily cultural performances, an Arts and Crafts Fair featuring local artists, and evening events focused on Hawaiian traditions. The highlight is three days of hula competitions, and the week wraps up with a colorful parade through downtown Hilo on Saturday morning. Many events are free and open to the public, with tickets for the hula competitions available online.
Why is the Merrie Monarch Festival culturally important?
The festival honors King Kalākaua, also known as the “Merrie Monarch”, who helped revive hula and oral traditions during a time when they were discouraged. First held in 1963 during a period of recovery for Hawai‘i, the festival was created to restore cultural pride and preserve Hawaiian heritage. Today, it continues to celebrate storytelling, history, and the living spirit of Hawaiian culture.
Book Your Kona Coast Vacation Today!
As the ultimate expression of Hawaiian culture and traditions, we at Kona Coast Vacations cannot think of a better time to visit the Big Island during the Merrie Monarch Festival. Plan your own cultural holiday by browsing our complete listing of premium vacation rentals, or use our online search features to find the perfect Hilo-side accommodations for next year’s festival. We at Kona Coast Vacations cannot think of a better way to truly experience the spirit, aloha, and culture of the Hawaiian Islands, so plan your next vacation in paradise!