Hibiscus Festival Returns in August

Ten Queen contestants will be vying for the Miss Hibiscus title this year after a lapse of five years.

The Hibiscus Festival is from August 31 to September 7. There will only be one contestant category, the Queen.

While launching the event yesterday, Acting Minister for Local Government Filimoni Vosarogo said the Hibiscus Festival would be back with a renewed vigor and enthusiasm under the guidance of the Suva City Council (SCC).

He said the festival was always a platform for celebrating the spirit, talent, and beauty of communities, and it was exciting to see its return.

The festival will be held at the upgraded Ratu Sukuna Park, Suva Foreshore, and the Suva Civic Centre.

The upgraded Rt Sukuna Park is expected to be completed by the end of this month.

"The Hibiscus Festival also presents unique opportunities to raise awareness and advocate for crucial issues such as the battles against AIDS, Non-Communicable Disease (NCD), and drug abuse," Mr Vosarogo said.

Hibiscus Standing Committee chair Opetaia Ravai and creative pageant director Andhy Blake.

"Utilising social media campaigns and interactive installations at festivals can engage audiences in meaningful dialogue about AIDS, NCDs and drug abuse.

Together, we can turn moments of celebrations into opportunity for positive change and lasting impact."

He said the Suva City Council and the Hibiscus Standing Committee are committed to delivering a memorable and iconic Hibiscus Festival this year.

"The Hibiscus Festival has always been more than just a beauty pageant. It is a celebration of our culture, our values, and our community spirit. It brings together people from all walks of life, fostering unity and camaraderie. This year, the festival aims to make it an even grander celebration, reflecting the growth and dynamism of Suva," Mr Vosarogo said.

"I am sure that this festival will not only meet but exceed our expectations."

The slogan for this year's event is 'Where Beauty Blooms, Suva Shines.'

Standing Committee for Miss Hibiscus chair Opetaia Ravai said previously the Hibiscus Festival was commercialised.

"We want to bring back the glamour of yesteryears of just focusing on the Queen contestants. In the past few years we noticed that everybody forgot about the queen. We feel that the Hibiscus Festival has been commercialised.

"The Hibiscus Festival will only be for the Queen contestants. We will soon announce who will be the major sponsor."

The Standing Committee members for Miss Hibiscus consists of four people; chair Mr Ravai and the members are Andhy Blake, Imanueli Taletawa and Rejieli Naua.

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