In just a few months, the Merrie Monarch Festival will once again bring the captivating traditions of hula to life on the Big Island of Hawaii. Scheduled for April 20 to 26, 2025, this iconic event celebrates Hawaiian culture, dance, and artistry, attracting performers and audiences from across the Hawaiian Islands and beyond.
Founded in 1963, the Merrie Monarch Festival honors King David Kalakaua, affectionately known as the “Merrie Monarch.” A steadfast advocate for Hawaiian arts and culture during his reign, King Kalakaua is credited with revitalizing hula, which had been suppressed in the 19th century. The festival carries his legacy forward, showcasing both ancient and modern interpretations of this traditional dance form.
The Merrie Monarch Festival is more than just a hula competition it’s a full immersion into Hawaiian culture. The week begins with free activities, such as craft fairs and hula exhibitions, allowing visitors to experience the island’s artistry and aloha spirit.
However, the festival’s centerpiece is the highly anticipated three-night hula competition:
Miss Aloha Hula Night: Individual female dancers vie for the prestigious title of Miss Aloha Hula, showcasing their mastery of traditional and contemporary hula styles.
Hula Kahiko Night: Groups perform ancient hula (hula kahiko) accompanied by chants and traditional instruments like ipu (gourd drums). These performances honor Hawaii’s rich heritage and spiritual roots.
Hula ‘Auana Night: The final night shifts focus to modern hula (hula ‘auana), characterized by string instruments, melodic vocals, and vibrant costumes.
Tickets for the hula competition are highly coveted and notoriously sell out quickly. Priced at $10 per night or $30 for two nights, they are available exclusively through mail-in requests no online or phone orders are accepted.
To request tickets, adhere to the following steps carefully:
Complete the official ticket request form.
Include payment via cashier’s check or money order.
Add a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the organizer’s response.
Requests that fail to meet these criteria will not be processed, and tickets are not guaranteed until you receive a confirmation letter. If tickets are unavailable, your payment will be returned.
For visitors eager to witness the artistry and cultural significance of the Merrie Monarch Festival, early ticket requests are crucial. The festival offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic hula performed by some of the most skilled dancers in the world.
Even if you’re unable to secure tickets to the main competition, the surrounding events provide plenty to enjoy. From craft fairs to free performances, the festival fosters a spirit of community and cultural pride that resonates throughout Hilo and beyond.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration. Start your ticket request today and prepare to be enchanted by the beauty, history, and traditions of Hawaii at the Merrie Monarch Festival.
