The Merrie Monarch Festival, a name synonymous with hula excellence and Hawaiian cultural pride, draws eyes and hearts from across the globe to Hilo, Hawaiʻi. While the mesmerizing performances on stage rightly take center stage, a vibrant and equally compelling celebration unfolds just steps away: the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair. This bustling marketplace is more than just a place to shop; it’s an immersion into the heart of Hawaiian artistry, a testament to the creativity and skill of local artisans, and a window into the deep cultural roots that define these islands.
For a week each spring, Hilo transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and movement as the Merrie Monarch Festival takes over the town. Founded in 1964, the festival was conceived as a way to revitalize Hawaiian culture after a period of decline. Today, it stands as a beacon of cultural preservation, attracting hula hālau (schools) from around the world to compete in a prestigious competition that honors the legacy of King David Kalākaua, the “Merrie Monarch.” It’s against this electrifying backdrop that the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair thrives, offering visitors and residents alike a unique opportunity to connect with Hawaiian culture on a more personal and tangible level.
The Merrie Monarch Craft Fair provides a counterpoint to the structured performances of the hula competition. It’s a dynamic, free-flowing space where creativity is on full display and the spirit of aloha fills the air. This makes the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair a destination worth visiting for anyone interested in the local art scene.
What is the Fair All About?
Nestled near the Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium, the heart of the Merrie Monarch Festival, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair sprawls across a designated area, typically a park or open space, becoming a vibrant hub of activity. From sunrise to sunset, the air is thick with the sweet fragrance of lei, the rhythmic sounds of Hawaiian music, and the excited chatter of shoppers. The fair typically runs concurrently with the main festival events, providing a constant flow of visitors and creating a sense of shared celebration. The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, with a mix of locals and tourists mingling among the vendor booths. The energy is palpable, fueled by the collective enthusiasm for Hawaiian culture and artistry.
The fair’s mission is multi-faceted. First and foremost, it serves as a vital platform for local artisans to showcase and sell their creations. Many of these artisans are small business owners or individual craftspeople who rely on the fair as a significant source of income. By providing them with a venue to reach a large and engaged audience, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair helps to sustain their livelihoods and support the local economy.
Secondly, the fair plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Hawaiian arts and crafts. Many of the items on display are rooted in traditional techniques and designs, passed down through generations. The fair provides a space for these traditions to be celebrated and shared, ensuring that they continue to thrive. For the artisans, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair represents a valuable avenue to carry on these art forms.
Finally, the fair offers an invaluable opportunity for cultural exchange and education. Visitors can interact directly with the artisans, learn about their craft, and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of their creations. It’s a chance to go beyond the surface and connect with the people and traditions that make Hawaiʻi so unique.
A Treasure Trove of Hawaiian Creations
The Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is a feast for the senses, offering an extraordinary array of handcrafted items that reflect the diversity and beauty of Hawaiian culture. From intricately woven lauhala baskets to stunning Niʻihau shell jewelry, the fair is a treasure trove of unique and authentic creations.
Traditional Hawaiian crafts are prominently featured, showcasing the skill and artistry of local practitioners. Lei making, an art form deeply embedded in Hawaiian culture, is represented by numerous vendors offering fragrant flower lei, delicate feather lei, and intricate shell lei. Wood carving, another ancient craft, yields beautiful koʻa bowls, traditional weapons, and intricate tools, each piece reflecting the carver’s deep connection to the land and its resources. Lauhala weaving, using the leaves of the hala tree, produces sturdy baskets, durable mats, and stylish hats, demonstrating the versatility of this natural material. Kapa making, the creation of barkcloth, is a less common but equally significant craft, showcasing the ingenuity of early Hawaiians in utilizing natural resources. And of course, there is the exquisite Niʻihau shell jewelry, meticulously crafted from tiny, rare shells found only on the island of Niʻihau, each piece a testament to the dedication and skill of the artisan.
Alongside these traditional crafts, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair also features a vibrant array of contemporary Hawaiian creations. Jewelers incorporate local materials like sea glass, pearls, and volcanic stone into stunning pieces of wearable art. Clothing designers create stylish aloha shirts, flowing muʻumuʻu, and other garments featuring vibrant Hawaiian prints. Artists display paintings, prints, and sculptures inspired by the islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage. And home décor items, such as quilts, cushions, and ceramics, add a touch of Hawaiian charm to any living space.
Beyond the crafts themselves, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair also offers a taste of local culinary delights. Food vendors serve up traditional Hawaiian dishes, such as kalua pig, poi, and haupia, alongside modern favorites made with local ingredients. Hawaiian coffee, grown on the slopes of Mauna Loa, provides a caffeinated boost for shoppers, while refreshing tropical juices offer a respite from the Hilo sun. You can also find books and music by Hawaiian artists, enriching the cultural experience.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Planning your visit to the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is essential to ensure a rewarding experience. The fair can get crowded, so consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid the biggest throngs. Public transportation options are available, and parking can be found, though it may require some patience. Remember to bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards. Reusable shopping bags are a must, as plastic bags are discouraged. And of course, don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the Hawaiian sun.
Navigating the fair can be overwhelming, so take some time to explore the layout and identify vendors that pique your interest. A map or directory, if available, can be helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors about their craft and the stories behind their creations. While bargaining is not generally expected, it doesn’t hurt to politely inquire about discounts, especially when purchasing multiple items.
Remember to be respectful of the artisans and their work. Ask permission before taking photos of their booths or creations. And be mindful of cultural sensitivities, such as avoiding stepping on lei or touching sacred objects without permission.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from the sun and heat. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade as needed. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and culturally enriching experience at the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair.
Why It Truly Matters
The Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is more than just a commercial event; it’s a vital engine for economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and community building. The fair provides a significant boost to the local economy, supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and generating revenue for the community. For many artisans, the fair represents a crucial source of income, allowing them to pursue their craft full-time and support their families.
But the economic impact is only part of the story. The Merrie Monarch Craft Fair also plays a critical role in preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture. By providing a platform for traditional artisans to showcase their work, the fair helps to keep these ancient skills and traditions alive. It also offers a unique opportunity for younger generations to learn from their elders and carry on these valuable cultural practices. In this way, the fair helps to ensure that Hawaiian culture continues to thrive for generations to come.
Perhaps most importantly, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is a powerful force for community building. It brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate Hawaiian culture and artistry. It creates a sense of aloha and connection, fostering a shared appreciation for the beauty and richness of these islands. It’s a place where visitors can connect with local artisans, learn about their craft, and gain a deeper understanding of the Hawaiian culture.
A Lasting Impression
The Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is an integral part of the Merrie Monarch Festival, representing an enduring symbol of Hawaiian culture. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits Hilo during this special time. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Hawaiian artistry, support local artisans, and connect with the spirit of aloha. If you ever have the opportunity to attend the Merrie Monarch Festival, be sure to set aside some time to explore the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair. You won’t be disappointed.
More than just a shopping destination, the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair is a living testament to the artistry, ingenuity, and enduring spirit of the Hawaiian people. It’s a place where tradition and innovation meet, where culture is celebrated, and where the spirit of aloha shines brightly. Make sure to bring home a piece of this magic when you visit.
