Overview
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture each spring, with the world's most respected hula competition.
History
The festival began in 1963 and honors King David Kalakaua, the "Merrie Monarch", who revived hula in the 1800s. The hula competition started in 1971.
Today
The festival fills Hilo with visitors each spring, and tickets sell out quickly.
Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.