#merrie monarch craft fair

62nd annual Merrie Monarch Festival culminates tonight with group hula ʻauana

Before the final night of competition begins, however, there’s plenty of craft fairs, markets and other events that continue throughout Hilo in case you haven’t had a chance to check any out yet.

Miss Aloha Hula to open 3 nights of competition for 62nd annual Merrie Monarch Festival

But before the “Super Bowl of Hula” gets underway at 6 p.m. today with the individual contest for the coveted title, be sure to check out all the events and activities happening throughout Hilo in celebration of hula and all things Hawaiian.

Celebration of everything hula and Hawaiian in full swing — including several Merrie Monarch Festival-adjacent events

Before donning your Aloha wear best or that new designer outfit to show off at tonight’s Hōʻike, check out some of the other events happening throughout Hilo during festival week.

Last chance to experience the official Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts & Crafts Fair

The official Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts & Crafts Fair that showcases and supports more than 150 of Hawai‘i’s best artisans and creators will be open one more day, on Saturday, at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium and Butler Buildings in Hilo on the Big Island.

Creator of double-gourd drums for ancient hula at Merrie Monarch’s craft fair

Using ipu grown at his farm, Kalim Smith builds ipu heke, a double-gourd drum, and ipu heke ‘ole, a single gourd drum, which are used in ancient hula.

Merrie Monarch Festival celebrating 60 years of Hula and Hawaiian culture

The Merrie Monarch Festival will be back to its full glory in April 2023, celebrating its 60th anniversary of showcasing hula and Hawaiian culture — and the world can’t wait.

A “Merrie” Craft Fair At Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium

This year from April 11 through April 14, citizens will get to peruse booth after booth of these man-made goods and products, to be featured during this year’s Merrie Monarch Festival.