Hilo Aloha is a multi-day cultural experience rooted in creativity, cultural practice, and connection. Taking place April 5–12, 2026 at the historic Hilo Palace Theater, Hilo Aloha brings together local practitioners, educators, artists, and small businesses to share ʻike, build relationships, and celebrate Hawaiʻi Island community life.

Hilo Aloha is co-produced by Actions of Aloha and Lālākea Foundation, in partnership with Nā Kālai Waʻa and other Hawaiʻi Island–based community organizations.Programming includes creative workshops, cultural experiences, live gatherings, and the Merrie Mākeke—each designed to be welcoming, accessible, and grounded in aloha.

Hilo Aloha’s event coincides with the Merrie Monarch Festival, offering another venue for honoring ʻike Hawaiʻi, contemporary creativity, and community connection through arts, crafts, fashion, film, food, and performance. For 63 years, the Merrie Monarch Festival has been a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture, bringing thousands to Hilo from across Hawai‘i and beyond to celebrate hula and Hawaiian heritage. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival also provides a vital economic boost to the community. We honor its founders, including the late Aunty Dotty Thompson, and its current leadership—Aunty Luana Kawelu, Kathy Kawelu, and their ʻohana—for their dedication to preserving and strengthening this cherished tradition.