Merrie Monarch Festival 2027: Dates, Schedule, Parade & Craft Fair

Merrie Monarch Festival 2027: Dates, Schedule, Parade & Craft Fair

Plan a Hilo visit around the Merrie Monarch Festival, March 28–April 3, 2027. This guide brings together the festival dates, hula events, Royal Parade and Hawaiian Arts Fair, with practical advice for staying near Hilo. Updated October 6, 2026.

What Is the Merrie Monarch Festival?

The Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long cultural celebration honoring King David Kalākaua, who was known as the “Merrie Monarch.” King Kalākaua played a major role in reviving Hawaiian traditions, including hula, during the late 19th century.

Today, the festival is widely recognized as the most prestigious hula competition in the world. Hālau hula (hula schools) from across Hawaii and beyond travel to Hilo each year to compete in traditional and modern hula performances.

While the hula competitions are the centerpiece of the festival, Merrie Monarch week also includes:

• Cultural demonstrations
• Hawaiian arts and crafts markets
• A large community parade
• Live music and performances
• Educational events celebrating Hawaiian heritage

For visitors to the Big Island, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Hawaiian culture at its highest level.

When Is Merrie Monarch 2027?

The official 2027 festival runs March 28–April 3 in Hilo. Opening celebrations begin Sunday, March 28. Competition nights are April 1–3 at Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium. Confirm event details and ticket instructions with the festival organizers before making plans: https://www.merriemonarch.com/2027-merrie_monarch_festival/

The week typically includes:

• Opening cultural exhibitions
• Community events around Hilo
• The Merrie Monarch Parade
• Three nights of world-class hula competition

Because the festival attracts thousands of visitors, hotels and vacation rentals in Hilo often book months in advance.

Merrie Monarch 2027 Schedule

The schedule below follows the organizer’s published 2027 program. All times are Hawaii time. Check the official festival website for changes and admission details.

Wednesday, March 31 – Hōʻike

Hōʻike begins at 6 p.m. at Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium. The organizer lists free admission, with no tickets required.

Tuesday & Wednesday – Cultural Events

During the early part of the week, Hilo hosts numerous cultural activities connected to the festival.

Visitors may encounter:

• Hawaiian music performances
• Cultural workshops and demonstrations
• Educational presentations about Hawaiian traditions
• Community gatherings celebrating local culture

These events help deepen visitors’ understanding of the cultural significance behind the festival.

Thursday – Miss Aloha Hula Competition

Miss Aloha Hula begins Thursday, April 1 at 6 p.m. at Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium. This solo competition celebrates hula kahiko, hula ʻauana and oli. Check official ticket instructions before attending.

Friday – Group Hula Kahiko

Friday night features the Group Hula Kahiko competition, where hālau perform traditional hula accompanied by chants and traditional instruments.

Hula Kahiko reflects ancient Hawaiian storytelling and spiritual traditions, making it one of the most powerful performances of the festival.

Saturday – Group Hula ʻAuana

The festival concludes with the Group Hula ʻAuana competition, which showcases modern interpretations of hula performed to melodic Hawaiian music.

This evening is often the most festive night of the festival, culminating in the announcement of competition winners.

Merrie Monarch Parade 2027

The Royal Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 3 in downtown Hilo. Arrive early, allow time for parking, and follow the organizers’ route and access guidance.

Merrie Monarch Craft Fair 2027

The Invitational Hawaiian Arts Fair takes place at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, March 31–April 3. Hours are 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free.

Where Is the Merrie Monarch Festival Held?

The Merrie Monarch Festival takes place in Hilo, Hawaii, on the eastern side of the Big Island.

Most of the major hula competitions are held at:

Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium

This venue becomes the center of the festival each year, hosting the major competition nights.

However, many Merrie Monarch events take place across the Hilo area, including:

• Downtown Hilo
• Local parks
• Cultural centers
• Craft fair locations

Because Hilo is a smaller town, the entire community becomes part of the celebration during festival week.

Tips for Attending Merrie Monarch 2027

Book your stay early and leave time for parking and event entry. Check official ticket requirements before traveling. Between events, enjoy Hilo’s farmers market, nearby waterfalls and the Hāmākua Coast. Plan longer outings separately so you can return comfortably for evening performances.

Other Big Island Events Around Merrie Monarch

The Big Island has cultural events throughout the year. Check each organizer’s current calendar before building other festivals into your trip; dates and admission arrangements can change.

Stay Near the Best Big Island Events at Koili Point

Stay near Hilo at Koili Point in Papaikou. Hale Koholā and Hale Honu each sleep 4, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and access to a shared pool and hot tub. Rates start at $459 per night, plus a $200 flat cleaning fee per home and Hawaii lodging taxes at checkout. Book direct through Houfy for direct contact with Len. Traveling together? Ask about both homes for up to 8 guests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Merrie Monarch 2027