#merrie monarch festival 2012

A week of Merrie Monarch Festivities concluded Saturday, April 14, with an exciting ʻauana hula competition and awards ceremony.

Hilo town shone brightly with vibrant hues, festive floats, gorgeous costumes and more at the 2012 Merrie Monarch Royal Parade.

On Friday the 13th, the Merrie Monarch Festival continues with the group Kahiko Competition with groups of Wahine (women), and Kane (men) halau. Kahiko means “ancient style,” making the hula Kahiko performances a very traditional artform and exhibition.

They use their whole body and breath to tell a story. In chant and song, young women aged 18 to 25, will compete in the night’s solo competition to be crowned this year’s Miss Aloha Hula.

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.