March 31 thru April 6:  50th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival.  Hawai`i’s most venerable hula celebration and competition with week-long festivities including exhibitions, musical entertainment, arts and crafts fairs and the Miss Aloha Hula Competition, kahiko (ancient) and auana (modern) hula competitions. Except for the hula competition, events are free.  Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium, 350 Kalanikoa Street, Hilo, 6 to 8 p.m.  See festival website for complete information on all events and times.  For information call (808) 935-9168 or visit www.merriemonarch.com.