Merrie Monarch Festival

Celebrate the Spirit of Hula at the Merrie Monarch Festival with House of Mana Up

Written by: House of Mana Up

Every spring, the heart of Hawaiian culture comes alive in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, with the Merrie Monarch Festival — a vibrant, weeklong celebration of hula, Hawaiian traditions, and the legacy of King David Kalākaua. Find some of the participating brands right here at House of Mana Up!


What is the Merrie Monarch Festival?


Named after King Kalākaua — the “Merrie Monarch” who revived hula during a time when it was nearly lost — this festival is a powerful expression of Hawaiian identity, resilience, and joy. It features prestigious hula competitions, cultural demonstrations, art exhibitions, and an incredible craft fair that showcases some of the most talented artisans from across the islands.


Shop Local: Meet Hawaiʻi's Makers at Merrie Monarch


If you're visiting the Merrie Monarch Craft Fair, be sure to stop by and explore these incredible makers — or, if you can’t make it to Hilo, you can shop their collections anytime at HouseofManaUp.com.

1. Aloha de Mele


Inspired by the natural beauty and culture of Hawaiʻi, Aloha de Mele offers art prints, jewelry, and accessories that make bold, meaningful statements. Each piece is hand-drawn by founder Mele, reflecting her passion for empowering wāhine (women) through art.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
Kāko‘o Hawai‘i Booth #17
Thu-Fri 10:30AM-5:30PM
Sat 9AM-4PM

2. Jules + Gem


Fill your space with scents that evoke island memories. Jules + Gem crafts luxury candles, perfumes, and diffusers with locally inspired fragrances like puakenikeni, pikake, and mango coconut.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
The Grand Naniloa Hotel (in the lobby)
Wed-Sat 9AM-4PM


3. Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals 


This Hilo-based brand brings the healing power of Hawaiʻi’s rainforests into your daily routine with plant-based skincare and wellness products, rooted in ancient Hawaiian healing traditions and forest stewardship.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
SCP Hilo Hotel
Thu-Sat 9AM-4PM


6. Lahaʻole Designs 


Founder Tanya Uyehara celebrates her love for nature and heritage through handcrafted jewelry and apparel that feature native Hawaiian plants, flowers, and meanings that honor her culture and lineage.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
Ah Fook Chinen-Puna Butler Building
Wed-Fri 9AM-5PM
Sat 9AM-4PM


Named after King Kalākaua — the “Merrie Monarch” who revived hula during a time when it was nearly lost — this festival is a powerful expression of Hawaiian identity, resilience, and joy.

Turtle in Hawaii

7. David Shepard


Known for his aloha wear and apparel adorned with native plant prints, David Shepard fuses fashion with conservation, featuring his hand drawn designs of plants and animals on his products.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
The Grand Naniloa Hotel (in the lobby)
Wed-Sat 9AM-4PM


8. Kākou Collective


Driven by the mission of preserving culture through art, Kākou Collective’s stationery, accessories, and home goods are covered in hand-illustrated native Hawaiian plants and storytelling that connects you to the ʻāina (land).


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
Kako'o Hawaii at Sangha Hall
Thu-Sat 10AM-3PM


9. ua body


Elevate your self-care with ua body's luxurious botanical skincare, made in small batches on Hawaiʻi Island with sustainably sourced ingredients and scents that transport you to lush rainforests and sunny shores.


Location at Merrie Monarch: 
The Civic Center Fair (In the outside tents)
Wed-Sat 9AM-5PM


10. NOHO Home


NOHO Home blends sophisticated design with Hawaiian heritage, offering elevated home décor that tells a story. Founded by Native Hawaiian designer Jalene Kanani, the brand reimagines traditional patterns and motifs through a modern lens—bringing the feeling of home (“noho”) to every space.


Location at Merrie Monarch:
Prince Kūhiō Plaza
Thu–Sat 10AM–6PM


Can’t Make It to Merrie Monarch?


You can still support local and bring home the essence of Hawaiʻi wherever you are. Shop all of these featured brands and more online at HouseofManaUp.com and experience the artistry and aloha behind every product.


Join us in celebrating hula, heritage, and Hawaiʻi’s incredible entrepreneurs this Merrie Monarch season — whether in person in Hilo or from wherever you call home.