Hilo Aloha celebrates culture, creativity, community during Merrie Monarch Week

A new weeklong cultural gathering will bring together artists, practitioners, educators and community members in the heart of Hilo during Merrie Monarch Week.

Hilo Aloha, from April 8-11 at the historic Hilo Palace Theater, will offer a vibrant lineup of workshops, performances, cultural experiences and a curated marketplace celebrating Hawaiʻi Island creativity and ʻike Hawaiʻi.

Co-produced by Actions of Aloha and Lālākea Foundation, in partnership with Nā Kālai Waʻa and other Hawaiʻi Island-based organizations, Hilo Aloha will provide a welcoming gathering space where culture, artistry and community can thrive.

“Hilo Aloha was created with a clear intention to gather our community in ways that honor ʻike Hawaiʻi, celebrate creativity and strengthen our relationships to one another and to this ʻāina,” said Lālākea Foundation Executive Director Noe Noe Wong-Wilson in announcing the event. “During Merrie Monarch Week, when so many people come to Hilo to celebrate hula and Hawaiian culture, we wanted to create additional spaces where people can learn, connect and experience the depth of our community.”

Hilo Aloha offers another opportunity for residents and visitors alike to engage with Hawaiʻi Island culture through arts, crafts, fashion, food, film and performance during the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a celebration of everything Hawaiian.

The festival draws thousands to Hilo each year to celebrate Hawaiian heritage while also providing an important economic boost for the community.

Hilo Aloha will feature a range of signature experiences:

• Merrie Mākeke Sip & Shop showcasing local fashion, crafts and Hawaiʻi-made goods.
• Creative cultural workshops led by cultural practitioners and educators.
• Free community livestream viewing of Merrie Monarch events at the Palace Theater.
• Kōlani Social Evening celebrations in partnership with Manaola.
• Food and storytelling experiences at the Pūpū & Inu Inu Bar.
• A special Hilo premiere screening of “Moana 2” in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language).

Many workshops and experiences will be offered free or at minimal cost, ensuring the events remain accessible to the community while supporting local practitioners and small businesses.

Organizers hope Hilo Aloha becomes a space where ʻike is shared across generations while residents and visitors alike can experience the spirit of Hilo in a meaningful way.

“Hilo Aloha is rooted in connection,” Wong-Wilson added. “It’s about celebrating our creativity, supporting local makers and educators and creating spaces where community can gather in ways that feel authentic and grounded in aloha.”

Events will take place from 10 a.m. to midnight daily throughout the week at the Palace, located at 38 Haili St., in the heart of downtown Hilo.

Additional information, programming updates and event details can be found at at the Hilo Aloha website.

You can also follow Hilo Aloha on Instagram @huihiloaloha for even more updates and information.