Be part of Hilo High history: Attend the 2023 Homecoming Ho‘olaule‘a this weekend

A Big Island high school is celebrating its past, present and future this week, and the community is invited to come be part of its history.

The 2023 Hilo High School Homecoming Ho‘olaule‘a will wrap up a week of festivities that looked back at the events that contributed to the school’s storied history. This year’s Homecoming theme: “Once Upon A Time At Hilo High.”

The party is from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday on the high school’s campus on Waiānuenue Avenue. There will be food, crafts, entertainment and more, featuring Hilo High alumni, staff and students: “It’s an event you won’t want to miss!” a post on the school’s Facebook page said.

Vendors participating include 808 Chamoy, Miura’s Party Things, Essentially Yours, Mai Yums, Sweet Baby Cakes, the Hilo High FFA Club, Itsuko Kitchen, Pumehana, Olena’s Kitchen, Teaspresso, Waylynn’s Crafts, PG Glizzy’s, Monstera Gems, Geejee Gadgets and TOTEtally Awesome.

“Be a part of the excitement and support our local vendors by indulging in a variety of unique crafts and mouth-watering food options,” another of the school’s Facebook posts said.

Saturday’s celebration also will be packed with entertainment from beginning to end, featuring the Hilo High School Taiko Club, Wendell Ing Jam Band, Viking Alumni Band, Faithful to Hawai‘i, Soshin Kai, student performers and class dances. The 2023 Homecoming Court and lighting of the letters also will be part of the show.

The school celebrated in true Homecoming style this year, hosting themed days from Monday through Friday and getting students into the act.

Monday focused on “The Beginning of Hilo High.” Students were asked to where their class colors. “Generation Day” was Tuesday, when, depending on which class they are in, students could have dressed up as babies, elementary keiki, adults or senior citizens. There was no place like their alma mater Wednesday, with airport outfits the featured wear. Students could re-create an outfit from their childhood while “Living in the Moment” on Thursday.

Today (Friday, Feb. 10) is about “Writing the Next Chapter,” and students were encouraged to wear the school’s colors of blue and gold.

The Ho‘olaule‘a on Saturday closes out the week and Hilo High is excited to welcome back Viking alumni, families, friends and everyone who wants to attend and celebrate.

The high school can’t wait to see and share its story with all those who attend.

“Let’s celebrate our rich heritage and make new memories together,” the school said in one of its Homecoming posts on Facebook.

For more information, check out the Hilo High School Facebook page.