For those of you who live in Hawai’i or plan on visiting the Big Island of Hawai’i (specifically Hilo) I just wanted to remind you that the Merrie Monarch Festival will take place on April 24-30, 2011.
The festival “… honors the legacy left by King David Kalākaua, who inspired the perpetuation of our traditions, native language and the arts” is something no one should miss. Besides the world-famous hula competitions, which lasts three days, there is an arts and crafts fair as well as mega parade.
I haven’t been to the Merrie Monarch Festival in years; essentially, it’s an amazing event. Overall, the festival is something that locals and tourists should not miss whilst in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i.
To learn more about the festival and/or to purchase last minute tickets please visit their website here.
To watch past performances from the Merrie Monarch hula competitions please click the links: Hâlau Ke Kai o Kahiki: Winners of the Kahiko performance in 2010 and Halau Na Mamo O Puuanahulu: Kahiko Winners, Women
Photos courtesy of: Fine Art America by Rod Cameron and Merrie Monarch.com
Tena koutou katoa/ Greetings,
My name is Katarina Riini. I am a member of an organisation named Te Roopu Atawhai and tutor of it’s junior “Maori Cultural Performing Arts Group” named Nga Uri Whakatipu o Te Roopu Atawhai (meaning The Next Generation thereof). We are planning to attend the 2012 festival in Hawai’i and would much appreciate it if you would advise us as to when the date of the next festival (when determined).
Look forward to hearing from you,
Arohanui/ Regards,
Katarina Riini