The Heilala Festival 2023 including the popular Miss Heilala Pageant returns in Nuku'alofa from 26 June to 7 July, after a three-years hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Held under a theme, 'Tonga My Kingdom' many events are being organised in a tentative program released today by the Ministry of Tourism.

The festival starts on 26 June with a school brass band competition and an industry competition for best floral arrangement and best housemaid.

Events scheduled for 27 June include Chef of the Year, Heilala Pickleball tournament and Junior Miss Tau’olunga competition. On the next day, is a bartender of the year, with Tonga’s Got Talent competition.

The Miss Heilala Pageant starts on 29 June with an orientation and photoshoot program in the morning.

A Heilala Golf Tournament and a Cultural Singing competition will also be held.

Programme

30 June is a Cultural Floorshow competition.

01 July - Heilala Multi-Cultural & Food Festival Day; ex 'Ikale Tahi march

01 July evening - Tongan movie, 'Red White & Brass'

02 July - One Tonga Gospel Music Concert.

03 July - Miss Heilala first judging event, pre-pageant interview at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre.

- evening ex 'Ikale Tahi   celebration ball.

A Miss Heilala kiekie creation and sarong competition will be held later on the same night, which are the second and third judging events of the pageant.

04 July - Heilala Float with Family Fun Fair in the morning. In the evening is the fourth Miss Heilala judging event of talent. 

05 July charity concert with the Miss Heilala Tau’olunga competition in the evening.

06 July Miss Heilala grand ball and crowning.

The festival concludes on 7 July with a Tonga High School Ball.

The Heilala Festival which was last held in 2019 was cancelled in the last three-years due to the pandemic. It is held annually to celebrate King Tupou VI's birthday, which is officially marked on 4 July. He turns 64 this year.