East Hawaii Cultural Center

East Hawaii Cultural Center is a downtown Hilo arts center with rotating exhibitions, community programs, classes and a historic building across from Kalakaua Park.

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East Hawaii Cultural Center

East Hawaii Cultural Center, Big Island

Unknown to many beachgoers, the Big Island is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The East Hawaii Cultural Center in Hilo is a lively hub showcasing local talent and presenting Hawaiian culture at its finest. Many cultural festivals, performances, exhibits, shows and workshops take place here.

The Center is run by the East Hawaii Cultural Council, a group of small organizations dedicated to presenting Hawaiian culture to the world. In 2002, they staged the first worldwide digital arts exhibition, accompanied by a global tour. A variety of shows and exhibits is shown here throughout the year, and classes and workshops are offered. Some of them are open to tourists and make great summer activities for kids.

The building that houses the Center used to be a police station and the former courthouse of Hilo. Much of the original structure remains and adds an interesting air to the place. It was built in 1932 and was placed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places in 1979. The ground floor now holds three galleries dedicated to modern exhibits by both local and international artists. Local art is sold at the gift shop located in the main gallery. Upstairs is a small theater where performances are held from time to time.

Across the Center is Kalakaua Park, a large open space featuring giant trees, monuments, educational plaques and a beautiful man-made pond.

Key Features

Downtown Hilo arts center across from Kalakaua Park
Located at 141 Kalakaua Street near Hilo Bayfront
Rotating exhibitions and community arts programs
Free admission, with donations appreciated
Historic civic building setting in the older part of Hilo
Classes, workshops and performances may be offered through the center
Gallery schedule can change between exhibitions
Close to downtown Hilo shops, restaurants and bayfront streets

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Frequently Asked Questions

What was the East Hawaii Cultural Center building before it became an arts center?

The building once served civic functions in downtown Hilo, including use connected with the former police station and county courthouse. That history gives the gallery a different character from a newer museum space.

How is East Hawaii Cultural Center connected with Hilo's arts community?

The center has supported East Hawaii artists, performers and cultural groups for decades, with exhibitions and programs that change throughout the year.

What does HMOCA mean in connection with East Hawaii Cultural Center?

HMOCA refers to the Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art, a name connected with the center's contemporary art programming in Hilo.

Why is the Kalakaua Street location interesting?

The center faces Kalakaua Park in the older part of downtown Hilo, where civic buildings, storefronts and bayfront streets show a different side of Hawaii Island from the resort areas.

What kind of art is usually shown here?

Exhibitions often focus on contemporary work, community themes, island artists and cultural voices from East Hawaii and beyond.