After moving from the Big Island to O‘ahu, people always ask me, “How
often do you visit home?” My answer is, “At least twice a year for Christmas
and the Merrie Monarch Festival.”
This year’s festival, held during three days in April, was another good time
to celebrate local traditions and Hawaiian cultural arts with family and friends.
Ever since I can remember, my dad’s involvement with the festival got him
invited to the hula competition, with two seats located behind the judge’s
panel. My cousin, a former hula dancer, always sits there on Thursday nights and
enjoys watching the Miss Aloha Hula competition.
Friday is my favorite night to attend. It’s the group hula kahiko, or ancient-style
dance. The captivating mele (chanting), rhythmic pahu (drums), and expressive hula
movements always fill the stadium with awe and inspiration. This past year I sat
alone, and someone attempted to sit in the vacant seat next to me. “I lost
my ticket and thought I was sitting here,” he explained. But it didn’t
seem to convince security, who quickly removed the would-be seat snatcher.
My dad was able to join me Saturday night for the hula ‘auana, or modern-style
dance. After the competition was over, we returned home and finished watching the
awards presentation on television. Of course, it didn’t have the same energy
as sitting in the Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium, but it was nice to lie on a comfortable
couch within walking distance of the refrigerator.
Between the competitions, I attend music concerts, art shows and craft fairs. Scattered
throughout Hilo, the fairs showcase artisans from all over the state displaying
their wood carvings, lauhala weaving, and lei-making skills. My mom and I went to
several fairs, and it wasn’t long before our bags were filled with artwork,
clothes and gifts from the many Island vendors.
As we continued walking through the various fairs, we couldn’t resist the
allure of baked goods and local produce that filled every aisle. I eagerly sampled
fresh poke, homemade breads, and icy fruit desserts.
On Saturday, my dad and I woke up early to help set up the judging area for the
Merrie Monarch Royal Parade. Standing on the second floor on Kilauea Avenue, we
had a bird’s eye view of bands, floats, and the royal court riding on horseback.
Children cleaned up after the horses with decorated wagons called scoopers. My favorite
scooper featured dolphins jumping through waves that were set in motion by spinning
wagon tires.
After the week was over, I returned to O‘ahu feeling proud of my hometown
for creating a popular local tradition and sharing it with the rest of world. I’m
always impressed with the Merrie Monarch’s directors and their ability to
maintain a homegrown event that is culturally authentic and accessible to everyone.
It’s that feeling of pride and respect for Hawaiian tradition that draws me
to return to Hilo every year for the Merrie Monarch Festival.