Today was the Opening Ceremony and Ho’olaulea (celebration/party) for Hilo’s Merrie Monarch festival. This week-long cultural festival features a prestigious hula competition, an invitational Hawaiian arts fair, hula shows, and a grand parade through Hilo town.
I missed the opening ceremonies, arriving at the end of the Kahiko (ancient hula) performances. Performers ranged in age from Keiki (children) to Kupunas (elders). Today’s day-long celebration also featured traditional dances from Tahiti and New Zealand.
In the past, the Wednesday night Ho’ike (exhibition/showcase) has featured dance troupes from other countries.