The Friends of the Palace Theater

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38 Haili St
Hilo, HI 96720
This historic 1925 movie theater in downtown Hilo reopened in 1999 after being closed for 17 years. Our Mission is to revitalize, restore, and sustain the Historic Palace Theater as a venue that will educate, entertain, and inspire our diverse community. The Palace opened in October 1925 with the Silent Film “The Son of Zorro” Starring Douglas Fairbanks. Since then the Palace Theater has shown many types of films including Festivals, Documentaries, Independent, Sleepers, Art House, Academy Award Winners, Silver Screen Classics & still even shows Silent Films accompanied by the Palace Organ. But the Palace is a lot more then just a movie theater. Many Famous Musicians & Music Festivals, for example, have preformed here, covering a large array of music. Classical, Rock, Jazz, Blues, Electronic, Hawaiian & many other Traditional World Music acts. Live Theater, Musicals, Ballets & Halaus have also graced the Palace stage. Not to mention private parties and Hilo’s Special Events May Day Lei Day, Black & White Night & Chinese New Year. This Historical Theater has been in the hearts of many for almost a century, and we hope it will become a treasured memory for you as well. It’s through volunteered time & charitable donations that restorations & operations are possible, so that the Palace can continue entertaining the people & visitors of the Big Island for many more years.

Reviews

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4.521 reviews
Photo of Alina B.
Alina B.
3/20/2025

a special experience. there's nothing like going to an old school theater. well maintained and clean. unique and thoughtful selection of movies. reasonable prices. kind staff. i highly recommend

Photo of Jarrod A.
Jarrod A.
11/12/2024

Valuable and left by history, I am now able to witness this architectural concept. In the most entertaining way. The historic Palace Theater. Located in the center of historic Downtown Hilo. A...

Photo of Bruce M.
Bruce M.
11/30/2024

This is a local treasure -- one I've been to many times as an audience member, as well as performing in the 2024 production of "Caesar." It's a grand, old 1920s movie palace, now run as a...

Photo of Alexander G.
Alexander G.
7/14/2022

The town of Hilo has a rich history with amazing stories and buildings. One of the highlights of a recent visit was visiting the Palace Theater. The lobby is open and welcoming with a cafe,...

Photo of Veronica N.
Veronica N.
1/1/2019

Quaint little theater that shows independent films. It is historic and has original seating, and other original interior features. It was raining outside and we wanted to find some place to spend...

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