A bigger-than-usual turnout is expected as Gov. Josh Green, Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda, and Hawaiʻi Rep. Jill Tokuda are set to speak to voters at the Democratic Party’s Grand Rally on Saturday, July 25.

The Hawaiʻi County Democratic Party’s Grand Rally, a signature political event since the 1950s, gives voters a chance to hear fro m candidates before filling out their ballots for the primary election.

Historically held the Friday night before the primary election, the Grand Rally now takes place about two weeks earlier so voters can hear from candidates around the time their ballots arrive in the mail.

Green, Alameda, and Tokuda will be joined by many other candidates vying for office in the primary election on Aug. 8. Among the speakers will be Della Au Belatti, candidate for lieutenant governor.

Speakers will include candidates for the state Senate, the state House of Representatives, and Hawaiʻi County Council. Democratic State Chair Makai Freitas will also address the audience.

Longtime emcee Andy Kahili will kick off the event and will introduce Hui Okinawa Kobudo Taiko for a traditional taiko drum performance before the politicians take the stage.

The Grand Rally is free, begins at 5 p.m., and is expected to last two hours at Moʻoheau Bandstand on Saturday, July 25.

The Grand Rally is a free event and a chance for voters to hear the candidates in person at Moʻoheau Bandstand in Hilo before filling out their ballots. The event begins at 5 p.m. and is expected to last two hours.

Candidates and their supporters will be sign-waving along Kamehameha Avenue in the hour prior to the event.