Merrie Monarch 2025 Celebrates 61 Years of Hula

Merrie Monarch Festival 2025 Celebrates 61 Years of Hula and Hawaiian Culture

Hilo, Hawaiʻi – April 2025

The world-renowned Merrie Monarch Festival returned to Hilo this week, marking its 61st year as the premier celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture. Thousands of spectators gathered at the Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium, while many more tuned in via live broadcasts, to witness the dazzling performances of hālau hula (hula schools) from across Hawaiʻi and beyond.

A Week of Tradition and Competition

The week-long festival, held from March 30 to April 5, 2025, honored the legacy of King David Kalākaua, known as the 'Merrie Monarch' for his role in reviving Hawaiian arts in the late 19th century. Events included the highly anticipated hula competitions, featuring both kahiko (ancient) and ʻauana (modern) styles, as well as a vibrant hoʻolauleʻa (celebration) with craft fairs, music, and cultural demonstrations.

This year’s competition saw 28 hālau, selected through a rigorous application process, showcasing their skill, storytelling, and dedication to preserving Hawaiian traditions. The event also paid special tribute to kumu hula (hula masters) who have dedicated their lives to perpetuating the art of hula.

Winning Hālau Take Center Stage

After three nights of breathtaking performances, the awards ceremony crowned the top hālau in multiple categories.

Overall Winner: Hālau Nā Lei Kaumaka o Uka (Kumu hula Nāpua Greig)

Wahine (Women’s) Division: 1st Place – Hālau Kekuhi (Kumu hula Huihui Kanahele-Mossman)

Kāne (Men’s) Division: 1st Place – Kawailiʻulā (Kumu hula Chinky Mahoe)

Judges praised the precision, emotion, and cultural authenticity displayed by the dancers, emphasizing the deep connection between hula and Hawaiian history.

Honoring Legacy and Looking Forward

In a moving ceremony, the festival honored longtime supporters of hula, including Aunty Dottie Thompson, a key figure in the festival’s growth. Organizers also highlighted efforts to engage younger generations through workshops and school programs.

'As we celebrate 61 years, we remember those who paved the way and look to the future with hope,' said festival president Luana Kawelu. 'Hula is more than dance—it’s the heartbeat of our people.'

With another successful year concluded, the Merrie Monarch Festival continues to stand as a beacon of Hawaiian culture, uniting communities and sharing the spirit of aloha with the world.

For highlights and full competition results, visit merriemonarch.com.

— Reporter: Leilani Kamakaʻala

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