Byron Kimo Souza Scholtz and Helaninoheaikamakeikeaku Nicole-Ann MeiLan Scholtz, the moʻi kane and moʻi wahine, ride on the royal float.

(BIVN) – From hula to taiko, from commercial floats to non-profits, from high school marching bands to the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, from Aloha ʻĀina to Maunakea Observatories, over 50 organizations took place in the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade in Hilo on Saturday, under ideal weather conditions.

Although Hawaiʻi Island was under a Flash Flood Watch during the event, the rains held back, and clouds provided some cover from the hot sun as the participants made their way through Downtown Hilo.

The parade was led by Grand Marshal Gerald De Mello, followed by Paʻu Queen Faith Kalei-Imaizumi and Paʻu Marshal Herbert Montague “Monty” Richards Jr.

The 2018 Miss Aloha Hula, Shalia Kapuau’ionalani Kikuyo Kamakaokalani of Hālau Nā Lei Kaumaka O Uka, also had her honorary spot.

Other units featured paʻu princesses from different Hawaiʻian islands, an annual highlight of the parade.

The final night of competition in the 55th annual Merrie Monarch Festival is tonight.