A Free Three-Day Cultural Celebration During Merrie Monarch Week

Hilo, Hawaiʻi – SCP Hilo Hotel and Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation, in partnership with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Atherton Family Foundation and Keaukaha General Store are proud to present this year’s Mele Manaka 2025 Community Fair—a FREE three-day event celebrating Hawaiian culture, music, and community.

Taking place April 24–26, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at SCP Hilo Hotel (formerly Hilo Seaside Hotel, 126 Banyan Way), this vibrant gathering will feature live Hawaiian entertainment, cultural workshops, giveaways, and over 70 local vendors showcasing their crafts.  

Attendees can immerse themselves in authentic Hawaiian traditions through hands-on workshops, including lei making, t-shirt printing, coconut hat weaving and more—all led by local practitioners.

Live music and performances will fill the air each day, beginning at 9:00 AM.

Thursday, April 24

• Komakakino
  
  

• KAʻUPILI
  
  

• Hālau Nawehiokaipoaloha
  
  

• Loeka Longakit & ʻOhana
  
  

• Kalani Peʻa
  
  

Friday, April 25

• Kaniaulono Hāpai
  
  

• Hālau O Kauluola
  
  

• Dillon Pakele
  
  

• Just Us Band
  
  

• The Kipapa Sisters
  
  

• The Steppas
  
  

Saturday, April 26

• Pōhai Makamae & Stephen Henderson
  
  

• Kuʻulei Music
  
  

• Kamahaʻo Haumea-Thronas
  
  

• Kea Band
  
  

• MEDIA
  
  

Thanks to Hawaiian Airlines and Big Island Candies, a complimentary shuttle service will be available, stopping at the corner of Banyan Drive for easy access. Parking will be available and monitored by patrol officers, and neighboring restaurants and eateries will remain open throughout the event.

Guiding attendees through this unforgettable experience, the event will be emceed by the beloved Morning Goddess Alakaʻi Paleka all three days.

This FREE community event welcomes all to join in the celebration of Hawaiian culture, music, and ʻohana. 

Come for the mele, stay for the mana!

For more information, please contact Breeani Kobayashi or Kiana Vallente at 8089350821.

Photo Credit: Cody-Fay Corbett