Big Island Events in April

63rd Annual Merrie Monarch Festival

The Merrie Monarch Festival is the most celebrated event on the Big Island, a week-long hula celebration and competition held annually in Hilo. Festivities include exhibitions, musical entertainment, arts and crafts fairs, and the prestigious hula competition featuring ancient (kahiko) and modern (ʻauana) hula styles. The festival honors King David Kalākaua, known as the "Merrie Monarch," who is credited with reviving many Hawaiian cultural practices, including hula. The 63rd Annual festival opens on Easter Sunday 2026.

Date: April 5–11, 2026 (Miss Aloha Hula April 9; Group Hula Kahiko April 10; Group Hula ʻAuana & Awards April 11)
Location: Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium, Hilo
Website: https://www.merriemonarch.com/

Official Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts & Crafts Fair

Coinciding with the Merrie Monarch Festival, this arts and crafts fair features over 150 artisans from across the state, showcasing hand-woven lauhala hats, lei humu papa, Polynesian-inspired crafts, and local delicacies. The fair provides a festive atmosphere with live performances, hula demonstrations, and music. Free admission.

When: April 8–11, 2026 (Wed–Sat, 9am–5pm)
Where: Hilo
More Info: https://www.merriemonarch.com/

13th Annual Big Island Chocolate Festival

Chocolate enthusiasts will delight in the annual Big Island Chocolate Festival, a multi-day event celebrating cacao. The 2026 theme is "Chocolate in Paradise."

The festival features cacao farm tours, culinary demonstrations, and seminars led by esteemed chocolatiers and chefs. The highlight is the Festival Gala on April 25, where attendees can savor an array of sweet and savory chocolate creations crafted by local chefs, accompanied by wine and beer tastings. The evening is enhanced with live entertainment, a silent auction, and a DJ.

When: April 23–25, 2026
Where: Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
More Info: https://bigislandchocolatefestival.com/

Annual Hawaii Arts, Crafts & Food Festival

Coinciding with the Merrie Monarch Festival, the Annual Hawai'i Arts, Crafts & Food Festival is a multi-day event celebrating the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii's diverse people, environment, and food. The festival features over 100 artisans, crafters, and food vendors from all over the state, offering a wide array of handcrafted items and local delicacies. Live performances and music throughout the event provide a festive atmosphere for attendees. Admission is free.

Date: Expected during Merrie Monarch week, April 2026 (check website for confirmed dates)
Location: Nani Mau Gardens, 421 Makalika Street, Hilo
Website: http://www.hawaiiartsandcraftsfestival.com/

Laupahoehoe Music Festival

The Laupāhoehoe Music Festival is an annual event that showcases an exceptional lineup of Hawaiian entertainers, including Grammy-recognized rising stars, veteran masters, and top local bands. The festival offers a day of nonstop music and hula, island style, with food vendors providing various tastes and vegetarian options. Local craft vendors are also on-site, offering unique handmade items.

Date: April 2026 (check website for confirmed date)
Location: Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park
Website: http://www.laupahoehoemusicfestival.org/

April 2026 on the Big Island of Hawaii is a month rich with cultural celebrations and community gatherings. From the iconic Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo to the indulgent experiences at the Big Island Chocolate Festival, visitors can engage in diverse events that cater to a wide range of interests. The Merrie Monarch Festival is a pinnacle of Hawaiian cultural expression, drawing attention worldwide to the art of hula and traditional practices. Complementing these are festivals like the Hawai'i Arts, Crafts & Food Festival and the Laupāhoehoe Music Festival, which offer immersive experiences into the island's artistic and musical heritage. Attending these events provides a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the spirit of Aloha and the rich tapestry of the Big Island's community life.