The 62nd Merrie Monarch Festival is underway on Hawaii Island, bringing a week of hula, arts, and cultural celebration to Hilo. Festivities began earlier in the week, leading up to the free Hōʻike exhibition scheduled for tonight.
The week opened Sunday with the Hoʻolauleʻa at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, a casual gathering featuring performances by hālau not competing later in the week. The event offered a relaxed start to the highly anticipated festival.
Attention then shifted to the vibrant world of Hawaiian fashion and design. The third annual Hānau Hou Arts and Fashion Show took place Monday, showcasing collections from designers across the islands. The sold-out event highlighted intentional designs grounded in Hawaiian culture.
Fashion continues as a central theme throughout Merrie Monarch week. Attendees at events like Hōʻike often display new pieces from local designers, reflecting spring trends and cultural expression. Designers emphasize that each garment tells a story, much like hula itself.
Tonight, the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium hosts Hōʻike, a non-competitive hula exhibition. This free event features performances by hālau from Hawaii and the Pacific Rim, providing an evening of cultural exchange before the formal competition begins.
Complementing the hula performances are numerous opportunities to engage with Hawaiian art and crafts. The Merrie Monarch Invitational Hawaiian Arts Fair opened Wednesday at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium and Butler Buildings.
The Arts & Crafts Fair runs through Saturday, offering a wide selection of locally made items from over 150 artisans. Offerings include aloha wear, jewelry, woodwork, food products, and official merchandise.
Visitors can find additional local vendors at various mākeke and craft fairs throughout Hilo during the Merrie Monarch 2025 festival week. Locations include the Grand Naniloa, Prince Kuhio Plaza, and Nani Mau Gardens, providing ample opportunity to find unique Hawaiian goods.
Many designers use their work to express personal journeys and cultural narratives. Hannah Preston-Pita, founder of Hānau Hou, describes designing as a form of therapy and infusing her cultural background into her pieces.
Merrie Monarch events continue through the week, culminating in the iconic hula competition. The associated fairs and exhibitions offer immersive experiences in Hawaiian culture, showcasing the depth of local talent.
“This fair has become more than just a marketplace – it’s a living celebration of our culture where multiple generations come together to share, learn, and perpetuate our cherished traditions," said Kegan Miura, co-chairman of the official Arts & Crafts Fair.